Yuma: Colorado River, Nature and History

Yuma combines landscapes along the Colorado River with places where the region’s history comes to life. If you’re looking for a hotel in Yuma, you can start by deciding what you want to focus on during your trip: nature watching, water sports or historic sites. Each place offers a different perspective and concrete ideas for planning visits in Yuma.

Wetlands, Trails and Nature Watching

The Yuma East Wetlands are considered a model for wetland restoration in the desert Southwest of the United States. Fishing, birdwatching and kayaking are among the activities enjoyed there by residents and visitors. Nature watching and time on the water go hand in hand here, making the wetlands appealing to travelers who want to include both in their plans.

Another scenic spot is Yuma West Wetlands Park, a 110-acre park along the river. The park has trails and parking lots at the trailheads. The riverfront area in the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area also includes two parks connected by a multi-use trail. This connection is a useful point of reference if you want to explore the parks and trail together.

Water Sports on the Colorado River

The Colorado River near Yuma offers year-round recreational activities such as motorboating, jet skiing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The options range from motorized trips to paddle-powered activities. Which ones suit your travel plans depends on how you’d like to spend your time on the water.

One specific option is a trip from the beach at Gateway Park to Centennial Beach or Playa Linda in the West Wetlands. You can make this trip by kayak, canoe or inflatable raft; allow about 45 to 60 minutes. Check local conditions before setting out.

Regional History Sites

Colorado River State Historic Park tells the story of a significant site in Arizona and the American West. In November 1775, the Anza Expedition crossed the Colorado River near the park, with support from local Quechan guides. The Quechan people’s role in this historic event is part of the history associated with the site.

Several eras meet at Pivot Point Plaza. The plaza opened in 2010 at the site where the first train entered Arizona in 1877. It features a 1907 Baldwin steam locomotive. An audio system recreates, among other sounds, a passing steamboat and an opening swing bridge.

Yuma Territorial Prison adds specific architectural details to the area’s history: its adobe walls are two feet thick. The former cells had little ventilation and no indoor plumbing. These conditions contrast sharply with the open landscapes and recreational opportunities along the river.

Getting There and Finding Your Way Around

Yuma is accessible by car, train and plane. The city is located on Interstate 8 at the southern end of U.S. Highway 95. If you’re traveling by train or plane, check the relevant schedules separately before finalizing your trip.

The Visitor Information Center in Yuma offers maps and brochures, as well as route planning through a Visit Yuma app kiosk. Free Wi-Fi is also available. Check the center’s operating details before visiting so you can plan how to find your way around.

Markets and Tours in the Area

Farmers’ markets in Yuma offer fresh citrus fruit, other fruits and vegetables, baked goods, spices and dried fruit. Jewelry, distinctive clothing and handicrafts are also available. Selection may vary by season and vendor.

Several date farms in the Yuma area offer public tours. If you’d like to include one in your plans, confirm with the participating farms before your trip which tours are available. Markets and tours offer different perspectives: markets focus on produce and crafts, while tours focus on date farms.

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