Free Fun – Tubing the Poudre River

Summer is almost over, but that doesn't mean we have to hunker down inside just yet. It also doesn't mean that you have to go spend a bunch of money, or any money at all doing something fun. A short drive up the Poudre Canyon with the inner tube of a tire makes for a few hours of free fun in the sun.

Here lately, Mother Nature and I have been getting closer again after the couch interrupted our relationship for a while. This weekend I went out and did something I have only done a few times, but have always enjoyed... Tubing. Free, simple, and relaxing. All you need is a tube, a swimsuit, and maybe some sunscreen.

My friend Adam invited me to go, and after debating whether I really wanted to miss reruns of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, I am very happy I went. A short 40 minute drive from Greeley got us to Picnic Rock at mile-marker 119 on Highway 14 where we left a vehicle to pick us up. The we drove the other vehicle up about three miles hopped into his nice $40 tubes from Walmart, sat back and let the river take us on a two hour ride. Sure it was a little chilly at times, and the water is kind of low so every once in awhile you have to get out and give your tube a push, but other than that it was fabulous!

Tire shops like Big O are always willing to sell inner tubes for cheap, around $10, and they work great. So, if you are looking for some free summer fun in our beautiful mountains, go tube the Poudre!