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Ruby Horsethief Canyon Multi-Day Rafting

Guided

Duration: 3 days

Fruita • Grand Junction

Features

Free Cancellation
On the Water
Beginner Friendly
Kid Friendly
Shuttle Included
Instant Book
Locally Owned
$550 Guest
(Ages 10+)

Description

Colorado River Multi-Day Rafting Trip - Ruby Horsetheif Canyon

Set off on a multi-day rafting journey along this tranquil 26-mile stretch of the Colorado River. Floating through the stunning Ruby-Horsethief Canyon, you'll experience breathtaking red rock cliffs, peaceful desert landscapes, and abundant wildlife. This scenic stretch between Loma, Colorado, and Westwater, Utah, offers a relaxed journey with mild Class I-II rapids, making it perfect for families, first-time rafters, and those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the river at a slower pace.
Over the course of three days, you'll paddle past towering sandstone walls, explore side canyons, and enjoy sandy beach campsites. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, river otters, great blue herons, and even bald eagles. 
Guided by an experienced team, the trip is tailored to suit a variety of interests and comfort levels. The Durango Rivertrippers guides are not only experts in river navigation, but also in interpreting the natural landscape, eager to share stories and insights about the canyon’s flora, fauna, and geological features. And if you’re interested in breaking up the daily rafting, Durango Rivertrippers will provide kayaks and stand-up paddleboards upon request —just make sure to ask ahead of your trip!
Beyond the water, the adventure continues with ample time allotted for exploring the awe-inspiring canyon. Whether you’re a keen hiker or a wildlife enthusiast, the diverse ecosystem offers something for everyone. As evening falls, the riverside campsites offer the epitome of relaxation. Each night, you will have the option to stargaze, enjoy the peaceful evening ambiance, and share stories around the campfire.  Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a fun-filled family excursion, a Ruby-Horsethief Canyon rafting trip is the perfect combination of relaxation, exploration, and natural beauty. Reserve your dates for this unique experience where every moment promises the chance to reconnect with nature!

Duration

3 days, 2 nights
The in-season months are May and September.

Location / Where to Meet

You will meet and park 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure at the Loma Boat Ramp and put-in.
The address for the Loma Boat Ramp is: 13 Rd, Fruita, CO 81521

Ages

Suitable for all ages 10+
This is considered a Class I-II adventure, meaning that you will likely get wet, but will have an overall relaxing float down the river. 

What’s Included

  1. Large dry bag, (dimensions 16″ diameter x 33″ height, measured fully packed and closed)
  2. Personal dry bag (dimensions 9.5″ diameter x 13″ height, measured fully packed and closed)
  3. Life Jackets (Personal Flotation Device - please do not bring your own)
  4. Riverside meals:
    1. Day 1: Lunch and Dinner
    2. Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
    3. Day 3: Breakfast and Lunch

Not Included

  1. Any gear not listed above.
  2. Personal clothing & gear.
  3. Camping gear (see rental options in FAQ).
  4. Snacks
  5. Meals:
    1. Day 1: Breakfast
    2. Day 3: Dinner

What to Bring / Wear

  1. If not rented from us: sleeping accommodations (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and pillow)
  2. Gear that needs to fit in the provided drybags: quick-dry and /or water-resistant clothing for days on the water
  3. Warm layers for activities off the water: pants, long sleeves, wool socks, beanie, jacket/sweatshirt
  4. Comfy clothing for nighttime/while you’re at camp: long sleeve cotton shirt, fleece, or a hoodie
  5. Sunglasses (strap recommended), sun hat with retention strap and wide brim that covers your neck
  6. Sandals that strap securely onto your feet (no flip flops while on the water)
  7. Hiking/tennis shoes for hikes
  8. A pillow
  9. Other recommended items:  
    1. Headlamp with extra batteries
    2. Sunscreen & chapstick with SPF
    3. Small towel
    4. Personal wet wipes
    5. Plastic trash bag/Ziplocs for used personal hygiene items / packing out personal trash
    6. Bug spray
    7. A water bottle with a tight-fitting lid for day use (No glass)
Optional:
  1. Biodegradable Soap & shampoo
  2. Go-pros or other waterproof devices. 

Helpful Videos

Helpful Packing Tips:
Daily tips and tricks on how to pack for a multi-day rafting trip:

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Durango Rivertrippers

FAQs

Can I tip my guide?

Yes! And it is recommended. Gratuity is not included in the tour price, and it is customary to tip 18% – 22% of the tour's price. Most guides have Venmo or PayPal, and cash is always appreciated and often easier due to limited cell service.

What if there is inclement weather?

Durango Rivertrippers runs rafting trips in all weather, rain or shine. If you forget a rain jacket, rental splash gear is available.

When does Ruby Horsethief Canyon run?

Great question! The in-season months are May and September.

Check out our guide to the seasonality of Colorado rivers for an overview of when rivers are running, difficulty, locations and more.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, we can accommodate dietary restrictions for an additional fee. Please select your meal option at checkout. Specialty meals that involve dietary restrictions will be an additional $15 per day, per person ($45 total).

Can we camp at the Loma Boat Ramp the night before the trip?

No, camping at the boat ramp is not permitted. Rabbit Valley, south of I-70 exit 2, has a free campground (Jouflas) and dispersed camping over a wide area.

For ease, we recommend staying in Grand Junction, CO, the night before the trip starts, which is about 25 minutes from the Loma Boat Ramp. Check out the Visit Grand Junction website for recommendations on campgrounds and hotels.

Can we rent camping gear?

Absolutely! If you don't have your own camping gear or don't want to travel with it, we have the following available to rent:

Multi-day Camping Package for up to 2 guests (Additional cost - $79)

  • A tent you can keep
  • Rental sleeping bags (2 sleeping bags rated for 40-55-degree weather)
  • Rental sleeping pads (two 2-3 inch thick sleeping Paco Pads).
  • Rental splash gear
  • Note: This package does not include a pillow.

If you don't need the full package, a-la-carte camping gear is also available.

I have my own life jacket. Can I wear it on the trip?

Sorry, no personal PFDs are allowed due to permitting and insurance regulations.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations up to 14-days prior to your start date will receive a full refund. Cancellations within the 14-day period are non-refundable.
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Availability

July 2025
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Reviews

Location

Address

360 South Camino Del Rio Suite #200

Durango, CO, 81301

US

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