Routt County in the month of August as documented by Hallie Myhre.
Like most months, August in Colorado is an excellent time for outdoor reaction. Locals enjoy the trails, rivers, lakes, and public land. For the agriculture community of Routt County, August is a busy month. Haying season is in full swing and local 4H and FFA kids are preparing for the Routt County Fair at the end of the month. The first few unofficial days of the fair consist of horse shows and the livestock begin to arrive. The end of the week is packed with livestock shows, fun rides, vendors, and a fun event each evening. The demolition derby, rodeo, and mutton busting always draw a crowd. For the first time this year, the 4H Bobby Robinson Sr. Memorial BBQ was free for the community. Although the Junior Livestock sale has shrunk in the last few years due to covid, sale prices were still high as local businesses and locals make it a priority to support the valley’s net generation of agriculture.
A popular weekend trip to Trappers Lake takes about 2 hours. The high mountain lake is known for its scenic views in the Flattops. The Lodge, a full bar, and restaurant serve great food and fun souvenirs. There are log cabins to rent and plenty of campsites to pitch a tent near the lake.
Both the ProRodeo Series and the local Gymkhana wrap up in August, so it is a great time to get in the last glimpse of high-speed cowboys and cowgirls competing at the rodeo grounds before snow flies.
I took a couple of trips east thanks to a listing near the Williams Fork Reservoir. Just a little furth down highway 40 sits the small town of Hot Sulfer Springs. The recently renovated resort and spa has over 22 different hot pools and baths at various temperatures. There is also lodging and massages available to book to make the most of your trip. In addition to the hot springs, there is great hiking, fishing, and camping!
During August I watched a couple of ranch rodeos, hiked to the upper fish creek falls, enjoyed dinner from the Meat Bar on the Yampa River, and played a slightly above-average game of bowling at the Snow Bowl!
