Colorado River in Colorado

Trip Overview

Flowing gently out of the Great Rocky Mountains, the historic Colorado and Gunnison Rivers converge at the edge of Grand Junction. The city derives its name from this confluence. In the area there are more than 75 miles of river to explore on scenic and refreshing trips.

The Colorado River through the Grand Valley is perfect Class I & II water for the novice for 10 months out of the year. Spring snowmelt usually begins in early May bringing peak flows on each river by the end of May, and tapering off gradually into June. During Spring runoff novices may boat on these waters but must be extra cautious.

Wildlife is abundant along these scenic, high desert river corridors. If you are looking for an easy run the access and accessibility of the Colorado is hard to pass up.

Accommodations:

Whitewater West Raft Sales & gear, Cabela's, REI, and Sportsmans Warehouse are all within 3 miles of the river.

Fees:

There are no permits required. The State Parks require day fees to use their boat launches

Directions:

Multiple access points are available through the valley between Palisade and Loma, Colorado.

Launches:

Palisade- Riverside Park


Corn Lake State Park on 32 Road


Connected Lakes State Park


Blue Heron launch- On Redlands Parkway


Fruita State Park

Contact:

James M. Robb Colorado River State Park, which contains all of the State Park sections along the river.

Resources:

Catfish Canoe Co. has downloadable maps, descriptions, shuttle information, and river flow information on their website www.catfishcanoe.com