Surrounded by the foothills and forests, The North Saint Vrain is a perfect place to beat the heat in downtown Lyons. The town is situated about fifteen miles north of Boulder on Colorado’s northern front range. Both the South Saint Vrain and North Saint Vrain run through town, so be sure you float the right creek.
Be sure to follow local rules, as parts of the river are located on private property, sensitive restoration areas, and construction sites.
River Tubing and Kayaking
During medium to high flows, it makes an excellent tubing and kayaking river. There are several diversion holes and structures to ensure a fun, adrenaline-packed time. The river is best floated in May and June when the water is still high from the snowmelt, however, it’s also the coldest. By end of July, the water level gets low and you’re best bet is in the Meadow Park section.
Getting There
Head to downtown Lyons. Different sections of the North Saint Vrain are open to river access, others are not. Please review this PDF of access points.
The uppermost section is located at the Apple Valley road bridge on Highway 36, just west of downtown. Another place to enter the river is Meadow Park on Highway 7, also on the west side of town. On the eastern side of town, you can enter across from Highway 66 by the Black Bear Hotel.
Two-hour parking on Main Street is available only to shop patrons and is enforced. It’s best to park elsewhere. Life jackets are recommended when the river is flowing fast and required for children 12 and under.
Details
Address: Planet Bluegrass, Lyons, CO
Season: May – July
Admission: Free
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