Explore the Outdoors & Rich History of Hayden

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In the hidden gem of Routt County, Hayden serves as your launchpad for a diverse range of summer activities. From fishing along the Yampa River to walking through historic downtown, Hayden is the place to be!

Sustainability Activity
Lend a Hand

Volunteer for the Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition and help protect Colorado’s rare and endangered birds.

Day
1
nature conservancy carpenter ranch photo
Activity
Nature Conservancy Carpenter Ranch
Carpenter Ranch, is a working cattle operation, run by The Nature Conservancy. As a research and education center, the ranch features interactive…
Lunch
Hayden Mercantile

Pick up items for lunch at this small-town grocer.

Activity
Hiking in the Flat Tops Wilderness Area

A precious expanse of open land, Flat Tops is Colorado's second-largest wilderness. Thousands of recreationists in search of hiking, camping, horseback, hunting and fishing visit each year.

Dinner
Fais Do-Do Bistro To Go
Serving up delicious Po-Boys, traditional Cajun French sandwiches and other Bayou flavors, you're sure to find something that tickles your tastebuds.
Activity
Fishing at Yampa River State Park

The Yampa River offers many fishing opportunities. Anglers fish for both warm-water and cold-water species in the Yampa. Upstream of Yampa River State Park is one of the healthiest trout fisheries found in the state.

Lodging
Routt County Fairgrounds RV & Tent Camping

Routt County Fairgrounds is 37 acres located approximately two blocks south of Highway 40 and downtown Hayden on Poplar Street. There are 9 full-hook up (water, sewer, electric 20/30/50 amp) sites with concrete pads and an asphalt parking lot, as well as 14 primitive electric-only (20amp) sites.

Day
2
Breakfast
Wild Goose Coffee at the Granary
Built in 1917, the Historic Hayden Granary was originally used for grain processing and storage until 1988, a feed store until 2012, and today…
Activity
Flat Tops Trail - Scenic and Historic Byway
Winding its way through lush river valleys, the Flat Tops Trail byway skirts the bountiful Flat Tops Wilderness, climbs over two of the state's…
Lunch
Franciosi Brothers Tap and Table
Grab artisan pizza, salads, wings and sandwiches and a local brew at Franciosi Brothers Tap and Table.
Activity
Hike Black Mountain Creek Trail

The first mile of trail follows an old logging road as it winds through a large meadow. This area is very beautiful, June through August, due to the abundance of wildflowers.

Insider's Tip
Camp Dinner

Grab items for dinner from Hayden Mercantile.

Insider's Tip
Camp at Chapman Reservoir

Stay the night at the Chapman Reservoir Campground, where some of the sites offer a beautiful view of the reservoir and the Little Flat Tops.

Day
3
Breakfast
Wild Goose Coffee at the Granary
Built in 1917, the Historic Hayden Granary was originally used for grain processing and storage until 1988, a feed store until 2012, and today…
Activity
Search for Sandhill Cranes in California Park

California Park has one of the highest breeding populations of sandhill crane in the state, and thus is also one of the best places to see that species outside of migration.

Lunch
Kum & Go Pizza
At Kum & Go, every pizza is made to order. Why? Because it’s your pizza, and it doesn’t become yours until you order it.
Activity
Hayden Heritage Center Museum
Located in the Moffat Railroad Depot built in 1918, the museum has exhibits on Hayden and West Routt Co history, its agricultural and mining…
Dinner
Creek View Grill
This diner offers a variety of cuisine, from Mexican-inspired enchiladas to American classics like grilled-cheese-and-ham sandwiches.
Activity
Historic Walking Tour of Hayden

Hayden is fortunate and unique to have so many original buildings still standing. This tour will take you from the train depot through the shady residential areas and into the business section of town.

Lodging
Routt County Fairgrounds RV & Tent Camping

Routt County Fairgrounds is 37 acres located approximately two blocks south of Highway 40 and downtown Hayden on Poplar Street. There are 9 full-hook up (water, sewer, electric 20/30/50 amp) sites with concrete pads and an asphalt parking lot, as well as 14 primitive electric-only (20amp) sites.