- Hike Cedar Mountain, with pristine habitat for both bald eagles and golden eagles.
- Celebrate and learn about the old west through the museums and events throughout the year.
- Spend some time on either the Yampa or the Elkhead Reservoir.
- Visit the Sand Wash Basin, home to the last wild mustang herds in the country.
Overview
Named after Reverend Bayard Craig in 1889, Craig, CO was incorporated as a city on April 24, 1908. The town of Craig was established as a county seat when Moffat County came into being, and currently has just under 10,000 residents.
Location
Craig is just over 40 miles west of Steamboat Springs along US-40, following the Yampa River the entire way.
Services/Amenities
Accommodations in town run from boutique bed and breakfasts to well-known national chain hotels, so take your pick. While you're there, make sure to ask for recommendations for restaurants, because there are a number to choose from!
In addition, downtown Craig is home to quaint shops of all varieties, including antiques and signature woodworking shops.
Activities
During the summer, locals in Craig often are seen in the water, whether it's in the Yampa River on an inner tube or at Elkhead Reservoir doing some water skiing, fishing, or other boating activity.
Located just 7 miles northwest of Craig, Cedar Mountain is a popular picnic and nature trail area, with a perfect nesting habitat for bald eagles and golden eagles. Keep an eye out for mule deer, jack rabbits, cottontails, ground squirrels, songbirds, and other wildlife. Pronghorn antelope are also often seen on the way to Cedar Mountain, and the bald eagles are always a beautiful sight along the Yampa River.
Winter fun includes snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or skiing in and around the Routt and White River National Forests. There are also great hunting opportunities for the outdoorsmen.
Attractions
Make sure to plan a trip to Craig during Memorial Day Weekend for the Grande Olde West Days, celebrating the traditional western culture through a variety of events, including a rodeo and a parade.
Both the Museum of Northwest Colorado and the Wyman Museum are fine examples of Craig's cultural attractions. While you're in town, make sure to visit the "Marcia" car, a luxury railroad car from 1906 that brings visitors back to the turn of the century.
Just one of many outdoor attractions around Craig, Sand Wash Basin is located just 45 miles west of town. This offroading mecca is a unique opportunity to view some of the last reserves of wild mustangs in the country, and we're not talking about cars!
Getting Here
Getting to Steamboat Springs is a beautiful drive up the Yampa Valley. Head east on US-40 for 42 miles, which will lead right into the town of Steamboat.
Make sure to keep your eyes open for the bald eagles along the riverside!
