Yampa River Botanic Park

Yampa River Botanic Park is a botanical garden in Steamboat Springs covering about 6 acres at roughly 6,800 feet elevation. Several specialized sections including a butterfly garden and culinary herb garden show different types of plantings across the site.

The park was founded in 1995 and transformed an unused area next to the Yampa River into a developed garden space. Bob and Audrey Enever developed this idea, creating a new landmark for the city.

The gardens demonstrate how to work with the region's challenging growing conditions and teach visitors about plants that thrive in this climate. The space serves as a place where people learn which vegetation is native here and how to use water responsibly.

The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset, with free access until the first major snowfall of the year. The paths are relatively flat and easy to walk, making it accessible for most visitors.

The garden thrives despite only having a 60-day frost-free growing season with plants adapted to intense summer sun and heavy winter snowfall. These conditions make the garden an example of how life succeeds in extreme high-altitude settings.

Location: Colorado

GPS coordinates: 40.46970,-106.82900

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:41