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River Adventure & Paddleboarding at Ruby Horsethief Canyon - Grand Junction

River Adventure & Paddleboarding at Ruby Horsethief Canyon

Grand Junction

Difficulty

Duration

Fitness Level

Overview

Join a multi-day Colorado River journey at Ruby Horsethief Canyon, where swift rapids and stunning canyon walls set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Perfect for paddling enthusiasts of all skill levels, this trip combines thrill with breathtaking scenery.

Hotchkiss, Colorado

Ruby Horsethief Multi-Day

3-Day RIver Adventure | Starting at $575

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Adventure Photos

Ruby Horsethief Multi-Day photo 1

About This Adventure

Rates

  • Adults (Ages 13+): 650.00
  • Children (Ages 12 and under) $625.00 -Groups of 10+: $575

Duration

  • Time: 3 days/2 nights
  • Length: 25 miles

About

At the far western edge of Colorado, the Colorado River cuts a deep canyon oasis through the desert. On this adventure, we spend 3 unforgettable days, and 2 star-lit nights floating the river, relaxing at camp, and enjoying the campfire.

All of your needs will be taken care of by your guides, who provide high quality stand up paddle instruction, camp set up, and delicious meals.

This section of river is suited to beginner and experienced paddlers alike. The character of the river through Ruby Canyon is calm, flat and slow moving. We recommend this trip to any first time stand up paddler.

All SUP and camping equipment is provided. All gear is ferried to our riverside camp daily by support raft. All you have to do is stand up, paddle, and enjoy the warm Colorado sunshine.

  • Difficulty: Class I
  • Season: May, July-October

Included

  • Equipment: All equipment provided, no additional rental fees. Including: *SUP board *Tent *Sleeping bag *3" thick sleeping pad *Pillow *110 liter personal Dry Bag
  • Meals: All meals provided and prepared by your guides
  • Wine and Dine Option (+$125 per person): All meals feature locally grown organic ingredients from the North Fork Valley Local wine tasting daily
  • Transportation: We can pick up and drop off at any Grand Junction hotel. Or meet us at the put-in the day of the trip.

Requirements

  • Fitness: Expect to spend up to 2-5 hours each day on the water.
  • Appropriate for age 10 and up.

Adventure Tips

Pack waterproof gear

Ensure your clothing and electronics are protected from water and splashes during rapids.

Stay hydrated and energized

Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up during the trip.

Secure loose items

Use straps and dry bags to prevent losing gear overboard in fast-moving water.

Practice safety routines

Participate in the safety briefing and follow guide instructions at all times.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Peregrine falcons
  • River otters

History

The Colorado River has carved this canyon over millions of years, while the area’s Native American tribes historically used the river as a vital transportation route.

Conservation

Trip operators focus on minimizing environmental impact by following Leave No Trace principles and supporting local conservation initiatives.

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Adventure Hotspots in Grand Junction

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Quick-drying paddle jacket

Essential

Keeps you comfortable and dry during splashes and rain showers.

spring;summer;fall specific

Personal flotation device (PFD)

Essential

Mandatory safety equipment that provides buoyancy in case of a swim.

Waterproof dry bags

Essential

Protect your electronics and clothing from water ingress.

Sturdy river shoes

Essential

Provides grip and foot protection on rocky riverbeds.