Explore Steamboat, Hayden offers window into Routt County roots

Hayden offers window into Routt County roots

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Located about 22 miles west of Steamboat Springs, Hayden offers a variety of fun summer activities, many of which offer a window into West Routt County’s history and roots.

Residents from throughout the county will congregate at the 92nd annual Routt County Fair from Aug. 11 through 20 at the Routt County Fairgrounds in Hayden.

Rodeo and horseback riding events, livestock shows and competitions, a carnival, children’s activities and a home arts exhibit are among the many events at the fair.

The Hayden community also will come together during Colorado Days, a two-day celebration hosted by the Northwest Colorado Shriners Club, to raise money for children needing medical care.

Events, which include a parade, pancake breakfast, barbecue and street dance, will be held July 21, 22 and 23.

Arts and crafts from local artists and music and entertainment from local performers will be the focus of the fourth annual Summerfest on July 4 in the Hayden Town Park. The event has grown each year, but still provides a casual and relaxing atmosphere for families to peruse art and enjoy music.

Join the town for a free lunch on June 16 for the Hayden Appreciation Day barbeque.

Stepping into the old railroad depot that houses Hayden’s museum is like wandering into a storybook alive with vivid recollections of this little town’s lively past.

The Hayden Heritage Center boasts tales of a spirited community that has retained the vision of early settlers and maintained a rural lifestyle fast disappearing in our country.

Home to the American Quarterhorse, Hayden’s history encompasses many aspects of agriculture, cowboy-ing, homesteading and mining. Children especially enjoy ringing the old school bell, and exploring the town’s original jail in back of the depot.

Located at 300 W. Pearl St, Dunn and other volunteers will be available for tours of the center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Call (970) 276-4380 for information.

“It’s like stepping into the storybook from the past,” Dunn said.

Visitors may explore the delicate balance between the environment and agriculture at The Nature Conservancy’s Carpenter Ranch, located off of U.S. Highway 40 east of Hayden.

The historical ranch remains a working cattle ranch within well-preserved ecosystems that host a plethora of wildlife and birds.

Visitors may stroll nature trails, bird watch or take advantage of various nature and art workshops at the ranch.

Interpretive nature programs also are offered at Yampa River State Park, several miles west of Hayden on U.S. Highway 40.

The park also has camping sites and facilities, maps and information about fishing and other activities on the Yampa River.