Located 25 miles west of Steamboat Springs on Highway 40 sits the town of Hayden. In the early 1900’s it was home to the largest cattle operation in the county and it was the railway shipment center for lamb until the late 1930’s.

Set at a lower elevation, between the Elkhead Range and the Williams Fork Mountains, Hayden has the mildest climate in Routt County. Its agricultural heritage remains the heartbeat of the community which is evident every August at the weeklong, century-old, Routt County Fair.

Housing is considerably more affordable than it is in Steamboat, which makes Hayden a popular commuter base. Property development continues to widen the town, bringing ongoing opportunities to purchase new-build homes. Small ranches and horse properties can be acquired on the fringes of this growing area.

Several miles east of Hayden is the 906-acre Carpenter Ranch run by the Nature Conservancy. The site is a bird-watchers paradise and brings a steady stream of visitors to the area. On the west side of town, the Yampa River State Park is another wildlife viewing mecca and scenic spot that is equipped for fishing, boating and camping.

The town of Hayden is minutes from the Yampa Valley Regional Airport. Hayden School District offers schooling from elementary through high school. Bus service connects Hayden to Steamboat Springs and Craig.

Hayden offers a small town feel with easy access to the amenities of its neighboring cities.