First Overnight Rafting Trip on the Ruby Horsethief Canyon on the Colorado River

The Ruby Horsethief section of the Colorado river runs from the desert town of Fruita, Colorado, putting in at the Loma Boat Ramp, travels 25 miles down river through the stunning desert canyons, into Utah, and eventually to the take out at the Westwater boat ramp. This was our first overnight trip on a river, requiring more planning, more gear, more beer, and honestly a bit more stress. Yet, it only a few miles on the river to realize this trip was going to be one of the most incredible experiences I've ever had in the desert.
Logistics to run the Ruby Horsethief Section:
Permits: Required for Overnight (Not required for Day-trips) www.recreation.gov/permits/74466
Put In: Loma Boat Ramp (Colorado)
Take Out: Westwater Boat Ramp (Utah)
Distance: 25 miles
Flow: 22,000 CFS (2,000-30,000 CFS) waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring...
Duration: 1-3 Days (4hrs at 20,000 CFS)
Vehicle Shuttle: 29 Miles (34 minutes)
Difficulty: Beginner Friendly
Campsites: 34 Options

[@ScratchRick]

Looks like a great trip!

[@baldilocks5686]

What type of raft is this? Did you buy or rent? Any recommendations?

[@ZacharyKenney8]

This is a star outlaw 120. We bought it a year ago and love it! Perfect for my wife, dog, and I for most trips. But worked perfectly fine loaded up on this trip. I’m pretty inexperienced with most gear out there, so I’m probably not the best resource, cheers tho.

[@aaronapmann]

Put on your PFDs! 🛟

[@ZacharyKenney8]

It’s flatwater!