Living in Hayden: 10 Reasons You'll Love Moving to Hayden

Hayden, Colorado, is an enticing haven for those pursuing a relaxed, nature-centric lifestyle. Its breathtaking surroundings, including stunning mountains, pristine rivers, and massive open spaces, offer endless outdoor adventures and recreational opportunities. From fishing and hiking to skiing and snowboarding, the town—one of the best towns near Steamboat Springs—embraces the beauty and excitement of its surroundings. Hayden's warm community atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its residents. With its amenities, from charming local shops to locally-owned cafes, bars, and restaurants, Hayden provides an idyllic sanctuary for individuals who value tranquility and appreciate the unparalleled beauty of Colorado's great outdoors.

5 Reasons to Love Living in Hayden

• Hayden offers easy access to fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities
• The town is located just 20 miles from Steamboat Springs
• There are over 50 restaurants in Hayden for residents and visitors to enjoy
• Hayden is 15 minutes from Craig, Colorado, so residents have even more access to other amenities
• Public transportation is available via Steamboat Springs Transit

The Hayden Lifestyle

Located in Northwest Colorado, Hayden is a small town that was first settled in 1875. The town is named for F.V. Hayden, who was head of a survey party for the U.S. Geological & Geographic Survey and went on to explore the western portion of the state through the late 19^th century. This small town is growing, and it's located just 20 miles from Steamboat Springs, a popular ski resort area. Business is growing in Steamboat Springs, providing many employment opportunities for Hayden residents. This quiet and affordable alternative to Steamboat is increasing in popularity as more people learn about what it offers.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy Hayden thanks to its proximity to Yampa River State Park, just minutes from downtown. This park features access to a 134-mile stretch of Yampa River, providing activities like camping, fishing, hiking, and boating. Although Hayden is smaller than other cities, it offers plenty of activities, including breweries and restaurants. The town hosts a farmers market every Thursday during the summer, from May to September. For those who enjoy a day of skiing, Steamboat Springs is just 27 miles away, and Howelsen Hill Ski Area is 25 miles away.

Types of Homes in Hayden

Homes in Hayden range from modest, modern townhomes to luxury homes and properties built in what's known as "Steamboat style." These modern homes typically feature open floor plans with tall ceilings and large picture windows so that residents can enjoy the beautiful view. A typical single-family home in Hayden ranges from 2,000–2,500 square feet. The cost of a home varies based on the location, age, and size, but most homes are currently on the market for between $450,000 to $1 million or more. Land is also available in Hayden with prices based on lot size, but a single-acre lot typically costs approximately $100,000.

Hayden Amenities

From access to public transportation to events and medical care, Hayden offers its residents a wide range of helpful amenities. Aside from the vast outdoor access, Hayden is also home to many retail shops, breweries, restaurants, and more. Here is some more information about neighborhood services and shopping in and around the Hayden area.

Neighborhood Services

Steamboat Springs Transit regional bus services provide daily departures from Craig that travel through Hayden, the town of Milner, and Steamboat II before making its final stop in Steamboat Springs. You can take this mode of transportation if you don't want to drive to and from these regions, but be sure to check the schedules as times and departures change depending on the season. UC Health Yampa Valley Medical Center is one of the closest hospitals, located in Steamboat Springs. Residents of Hayden do have access to smaller clinics, but there are no major hospitals within the town limits.

The Hayden Center is an ample community space and recreation center, and residents also have access to Anytime Fitness, Hayden Pilates, Steamboat Fit, and more. La Joya Dulce is an event venue perfect for weddings and more. This luxurious Colorado ranch is nine miles from Steamboat Springs, and bookings are limited. Lucky 8 Ranch offers event hosting, ATV tours and rentals, and more. This venue features 3,000 acres of rolling hills and stunning natural beauty, making it perfect for weddings and adventures. History fans will enjoy visiting the Hayden Heritage Center, which features a museum and gift shop.

Neighborhood Shopping

Shopping is plentiful in Hayden, with a range of grocery stores to choose from. Hayden Mercantile is located on 6th Street and has a butcher shop, fresh produce, and everyday essentials. A Walmart Supercenter is located in nearby Craig, CO, and Steamboat Springs has a Safeway grocery store. Many Hayden residents trek to Steamboat Springs to visit Steamboat Meat & Seafood. This store offers fresh pasta, vegetables and fruits, cheeses, freshly made sausage, and other goods like jerky meats and nuts.

City Market is in Craig and offers a wide range of grocery items. Kroger owns this store, and many Hayden residents come here to buy their groceries. Natural Path Botanicals is a vitamin and supplement store on Capital Street in Hayden. The Buffalo Leather Store sells bison animal hides to make leather goods, and the owners say this type of buttery soft leather is 40 percent stronger than cowhide.

Things to Do in Hayden

The town of Hayden offers plenty of exciting things to do, including outdoor activities like hunting, hiking, and fishing. Organized volleyball and basketball for adults are available, and the town says that pickleball is coming soon. Depending on the season and your interest, you can participate in dance classes, adult softball, and more.

Outdoor Activities

Hayden is a haven for a wide variety of great outdoor activities. Anglers of all kinds will love the easy access to the Yampa River and the Elkhead Reservoir. Yampa River State Park has trout, smallmouth bass, and northern pike fully stocked. Elkhead Reservoir State Park is just under 30 minutes from Hayden and features 900 acres of water to fish for crappie, bluegill, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and more. And all of the best parks in Steamboat Springs are approximately 25 miles away. In the winter, there are plenty of mountain trails to explore for snowboarding, dog sledding, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing. Alpine skiing is available at Steamboat Springs and Howelsen Hill, Colorado's oldest operating ski area.

Restaurants, Breweries & Bars

Many excellent restaurants, breweries, and bars in Hayden offer everything from steak and seafood to breakfast and beer. Creek View Grill serves breakfast and American food daily, with happy hour on tap from 2:00–6:00 p.m. seven days a week. Franciosi Brothers Tap and Table serves delicious pizzas, a wide variety of Italian dishes, subs, sandwiches, and more. Wild Goose Coffee at the Granary serves local fare, fresh baked goods, coffee, and farm-to-table dishes. Yampa Valley Brewing Company has two tap rooms: one in Craig and one in Steamboat Springs. This famous brewery serves various homemade brews on tap throughout the year.

Nearby Attractions

Due to its rich Western heritage, many exciting attractions are near Hayden. The Museum of Northwest Colorado is home to one of the largest collections of Old West firearms and artifacts. The museum showcases fascinating items and facts from dinosaurs and Native Americans to the lives of early explorers and more. The Hayden Heritage Center contains several exhibits and is also home to the Leslie Memorial Library, which includes many old documents, memorabilia, and files. The library is open to the public. From golf to hikes and skiing to fun gondola rides, nearby Steamboat Springs is also loaded with things to see and do.

Employers Near Hayden

Several companies are located in and near Hayden for employment, including Hertz, Avis, Budget Car Rentals, NAPA Auto Parts, and Bear River Builders. Many residents commute to work in Steamboat Springs. Yampa Valley Regional Airport is another major employer in the region. Nearby Craig, CO, is also home to several employers, including hair salons, Chapman's Automotive, and health services like Falling Water Wellness. Manufacturing, nursing, and transportation are some of the largest industries in and around Hayden looking for eligible employees. Delta Building Center, LLC is a significant employer specializing in fabricating metal siding, roofing, sheds, and more.

Schools Near Hayden

The Hayden School District oversees Hayden Valley Elementary School, Hayden Valley Middle School, and Hayden Valley High School. Steamboat Mountain School is a day and boarding school split into grades K–4, 5–8, and 9–12. The school offers a range of fun activities and opportunities that go well beyond the classroom, including outdoor adventure courses, global studies, strings, a winter sports club, STEAM learning, and summer camp. A boarding program is also available for students who plan to stay at the school for an extended time.

Steamboat Montessori provides students with an authentic Montessori program that integrates with Colorado state standards. The school offers a holistic and academically challenging educational experience for primary, middle, and upper elementary school. Colorado Mountain College in Steamboat Springs is accredited and offers various programs and on- or off-campus living. The school offers affordable tuition with small classrooms and an average student-to-teacher ratio of 13:1 for a more individualized experience.

Idyllic Colorado Living in Hayden

Hayden, Colorado, is one of the most affordable places to live in Routt County, which presents an enticing haven for those in pursuit of a relaxed and nature-centric lifestyle. Its breathtaking surroundings, including stunning mountains, pristine rivers, and massive open spaces, offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and recreation. From fishing and hiking to skiing and snowboarding, the town embraces the beauty and excitement of its surroundings. Hayden's warm community atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its residents. With its range of amenities, from charming local shops to locally-owned cafes, bars, and restaurants, Hayden provides an idyllic sanctuary for individuals who value tranquility and appreciate the unparalleled beauty of Colorado's great outdoors.