Cities and Towns in Routt County, Colorado
Founded on 1877-01-29, Routt County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Routt County was split from Grand County. The city of Steamboat Springs is the county seat. With FIPS code of 107, Routt County has a population of 25,091 and area of 2,362.11 square miles (6,118 km²).
List of all cities in Routt County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clark, CO | 80428 | 970 |
| Hayden, CO | 81639 | 970 |
| Oak Creek, CO | 80467 | 970 |
| Phippsburg, CO | 80469 | 970 |
| Steamboat, CO | 80477 | 970 |
| 80487 | 970 | |
| 80488 | 970 | |
| Steamboat Springs, CO | 80477 | 970 |
| 80487 | 970 | |
| 80488 | 970 | |
| Toponas, CO | 80479 | 970 |
| Yampa, CO | 80483 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Routt County, Colorado
Steamboat Springs
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 10.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 13,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80477, 80487, 80488
- Latitude: 40.4850° N
- Longitude: 106.8317° W
City Location and History
Steamboat Springs, the county seat of Routt County, is located in the Yampa Valley of northwestern Colorado, nestled in the Rocky Mountains. The town was founded in 1900 and quickly became known for its natural hot springs, which were thought to resemble the sound of a steamboat engine, giving the town its name. Originally a ranching and mining community, Steamboat Springs has evolved into a world-renowned ski destination, earning the nickname “Ski Town, U.S.A.” The development of the Steamboat Ski Resort in the 1960s solidified the town’s reputation as a premier winter sports hub. In addition to skiing, Steamboat Springs is known for its vibrant arts scene, Western heritage, and year-round outdoor recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Steamboat Springs is served by the Steamboat Springs School District RE-2, with Steamboat Springs High School being the primary secondary institution. The city’s major landmarks include the Steamboat Ski Resort, which offers world-class skiing and snowboarding, and the Howelsen Hill Ski Area, the oldest continuously operating ski area in North America and a training ground for many Olympic athletes. The town is also home to the Yampa River Botanic Park, a six-acre botanical garden offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The historic downtown area features the Tread of Pioneers Museum, which showcases the region’s history, from its Native American roots to its development as a skiing mecca. Steamboat Springs’ combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural richness makes it the centerpiece of Routt County.
Hayden
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 81639
- Latitude: 40.4950° N
- Longitude: 107.2631° W
City Location and History
Hayden is a small town located in the western part of Routt County, approximately 25 miles west of Steamboat Springs. The town was established in 1875 and was named after Ferdinand V. Hayden, a noted geologist who led several early surveys of the Rocky Mountains. Hayden developed as a ranching and agricultural community, benefiting from its location along the Yampa River and the nearby railroad. The town has retained its rural character and remains a close-knit community with a strong emphasis on farming and ranching. In recent years, Hayden has seen growth due to its proximity to Steamboat Springs and its appeal as a quieter, more affordable alternative to the bustling ski town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hayden is served by the Hayden School District RE-1, with Hayden High School being the primary educational institution. The town’s major landmarks include the Hayden Heritage Center, a museum housed in the historic Moffat Railroad Depot, which offers exhibits on the town’s history, including its agricultural and railroad heritage. The Yampa River State Park, located nearby, provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hayden is also home to the Yampa Valley Regional Airport, which serves as the main air gateway for visitors to the Steamboat Springs area. Hayden’s blend of rural charm, historical significance, and access to natural resources makes it an important community in Routt County.
Oak Creek
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 900 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80467
- Latitude: 40.2744° N
- Longitude: 106.9617° W
City Location and History
Oak Creek is a small town located in the southern part of Routt County, about 20 miles south of Steamboat Springs. The town was founded in 1907 during a coal mining boom, and its name comes from the oak trees that line the nearby creek. Oak Creek quickly became a bustling mining town, attracting workers and their families to the area. At its peak, the town had a thriving community with multiple mines in operation. However, like many mining towns, Oak Creek’s fortunes declined as the demand for coal decreased, leading to mine closures and a reduction in population. Today, Oak Creek is known for its strong sense of community and its picturesque setting in the Yampa Valley.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oak Creek is served by the South Routt School District RE-3, with Soroco High School providing education for local students. The town’s major landmarks include the Oak Creek and Phippsburg Historical Society Museum, which preserves the history of the area’s coal mining heritage and the lives of the people who settled there. The town is also close to Stagecoach State Park, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, as well as winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing. Oak Creek’s annual Labor Day festivities, including a parade and community events, highlight the town’s close-knit community spirit. With its rich history and access to outdoor recreation, Oak Creek remains a vibrant and welcoming town in Routt County.
Yampa
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80483
- Latitude: 40.1514° N
- Longitude: 106.9114° W
City Location and History
Yampa is a small town located in the southern part of Routt County, near the headwaters of the Yampa River, about 30 miles south of Steamboat Springs. The town was founded in 1881 and originally served as a supply center for ranchers and homesteaders in the area. Yampa’s name is derived from a native plant that was a staple food for the Ute people. The town grew steadily as a ranching and logging community, and it became known as the “Gateway to the Flat Tops” due to its proximity to the Flat Tops Wilderness Area, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Yampa has retained its Western character and remains a center for ranching and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Yampa is part of the South Routt School District RE-3, with students attending schools in nearby Oak Creek, including Soroco High School. The town’s major landmarks include the historic Royal Hotel and Antlers Café & Bar, both of which are reminders of Yampa’s past as a bustling ranching town. The Yampa-Egeria Historical Society Museum, located in the town’s original schoolhouse, offers exhibits on local history, including ranching, logging, and the lives of early settlers. The nearby Flat Tops Wilderness Area provides endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring the rugged mountain landscape. Yampa’s annual Fourth of July celebration, featuring a parade and rodeo, is a highlight of the town’s calendar and reflects its strong community spirit. Yampa’s combination of Western heritage, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities makes it a charming and enduring town in Routt County.
Map of Cities in Routt County, CO
