Steamboat Rock - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There's no shortage of things to do at Steamboat Rock. For starters, the area is renowned for its hiking trails, which wind their way through some of the most stunning scenery in Colorado. Whether you're looking for an easy hike or a challenging climb, you'll find what you're looking for in Steamboat Rock. In addition to hiking, the area also offers great opportunities for fishing, camping, and bird watching. And if you're looking for a bit of adventure, you can always try your hand at rock climbing and whitewater rafting. And when the sun goes down, there are plenty of campsites where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the night sky. 

Steamboat Rock is a large rock formation in Moffat County, Colorado. It is located on the west side of the county, near the town of Dinosaur. The rock is named for its resemblance to a steamboat, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The rock has been a landmark for centuries, and it played an important role in the history of the area. Early settlers used it as a landmark on their journey westward, and it was a popular camping spot for pioneers. In more recent years, Steamboat Rock has become a popular destination for hiking, climbing, and picnicking. It is also a popular spot for photographers, as its unique shape and location make it a perfect backdrop for photos. 

The best time to visit Steamboat Rock in Moffat County, Colorado is in the summer. The area is known for its beautiful scenery, and the summer months offer the perfect opportunity to explore the area.

1. Pack your hiking boots! The area around Steamboat Rock is full of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels. So whether you're a seasoned hiker or just getting started, there's a trail for you.
2. Respect the rocks! Steamboat Rock is a popular climbing spot, but it's also a very fragile ecosystem. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles when rock climbing or exploring the area in general.
3.  Check out the visitor center - it's a great resource for learning more about the park's history and ecology.
4. Make sure to hike to the top of Steamboat Rock - the views are incredible!

1. This geographical formation was originally named "Echo Rock" in John Wesley Powell's 1875 report, The Exploration of the Colorado River and Its Canyons.
2. It is composed almost entirely of Permian-Pennsylvanian Weber Sandstone, with a thin layer of Park City Formation caprock.
3. Steamboat Rock is one of the largest Entrada Sandstone formations in the world.
4.  Early Native American tribes used the rock as a sacred site for ceremonies and burials.
5.  In 1938, the Civilian Conservation Corps began stabilizing the rock to prevent further erosion.
6. The rock formation is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including several species of cactus, lizards, and birds.
   
    

One full day is enough to explore this area fully and there is also camping options. 

To get there by car, take Highway 94 east from Craig for about 30 miles. Then take County Road 17 north for about 8 miles. After that, take County Road 16 east for about 6 miles. Finally, take County Road 15 north for about 2 miles. 

The entrance fee to Steamboat Rock in Moffat County, Colorado is $7 per person. This fee is used to help maintain the park and its amenities. In addition to the entrance fee, there are also fees for camping, picnicking, and parking.

The rock is open to visitors from dawn until dusk. But it dependsupon the climate.