Family friendly river float near Grand Junction, CO

Floating the River Around Grand Junction: A Section-by-Section Guide from Palisade to Loma

Looking to cool off and experience the Grand Valley from a whole new angle? Floating the Colorado River between Palisade, Grand Junction, Fruita, and Loma, offers a scenic, laid-back way to connect with the landscape, spot wildlife, and enjoy time with friends and family. Whether you're on a paddleboard, in a kayak, or riding in a raft, there are options for every level of river user.

Below is a breakdown of the key sections between Palisade and Loma, with river miles, key highlights, and things to watch out for.

Palisade Rim Trailhead to Palisade Riverbend Park

Distance: 3.5 miles
Boat Ramp: Short carry to the river at the Palisade Rim Trailhead put-in, 1-lane boat ramp at Palisade Park
Bathroom: Porta Potty at put-in, pit toilets at take-out

A great entry-level float, this short stretch is perfect for first-timers or families with young kids. It starts across the road from the Palisade Rim trailhead and flows gently through vineyard country.

Highlights:

  • Views of Mt. Garfield and the Grand Mesa
  • Kid-friendly with a few splashy sections
  • Floating through orchards and vineyards

Watch Out For:

  • There is a dam just after the bridge, where you’ll have to run left through a small channel
  • Occasional downed trees after the dam
  • Shallow gravel bars at low water

Palisade Riverbend Park to Corn Lake

Distance: 6.5 miles
Boat Ramp: 1-lane boat ramp at Palisade Park, multi-lane ramp at Corn Lake
Bathroom: Pit toilets at the put-in and take-out

This section offers a peaceful float through farmland and cottonwood stands with great views of Mt. Garfield and “waterfalls” on river left from irrigation runoff. 

Highlights:

  • Wildlife viewing: herons, beavers, eagles, and osprey
  • Expansive views of the Grand Valley
  • “Waterfalls” on river left from irrigation runoff

Watch Out For:

  • Limited shade and beaches
  • Sun exposure—bring protection!

Corn Lake to Las Colonias Park

Distance: 5.1 miles
Boat Ramp: Multi-lane ramps at Corn Lake and Las Colonias
Bathroom: Pit toilets at put-in, flush toilets seasonally available at take-out

This short section brings you into the urban heart of Grand Junction while keeping a natural feel along the riverbanks. Great for a quick after-work river session.

**Flows, banks, channels, and strainers in this section are rapidly changing.

Highlights:

  • While floating through the Colorado River Wildlife Area, look for abundant deer, otter, beavers, blue heron, bald eagles, and osprey.
  • Fun wave trains at the bottom of the island just before the 29 Road Bridge.
  • Fun wave train about a mile after the 29 Road Bridge.
  • More “waterfalls” on river left from irrigation runoff.

Watch Out For:

  • Just before the 29 Road Bridge, the river splits around an island. Flows, downed tress, waves, and channel openings in this section are rapidly changing. Be aware of downed trees, gravel bars, and strainers.
  • Shallow spots at low flows.

Las Colonias to Blue Heron

Distance: 5.6 miles
Boat Ramp: Multi-lane ramps at Las Colonias and Blue Heron
Bathroom: Seasonally open flush toilets at put-in, pit toilets at take-out

This shorter float is ideal for a relaxing morning or after-work trip. It meanders past open space and nature corridors.

Highlights:

  • The confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado Rivers! This is where anything with the name “two rivers” gets it’s namesake. Flows also increase here. 
  • There is a fun, and sometimes significant, wave train just after the railroad trestle bridge near the confluence.
  • Wildlife and birding opportunities.
  • Easy put-in and take-out.

Watch Out For:

  • Strainers and small currents near bridge pilings.
  • Logs caught near banks.
  • That wave train at the confluence can get spicy at certain river levels!

Blue Heron to Fruita / James M. Robb Colorado River State Park (Fruita)

Distance: 9.3 miles
Boat Ramp: Multi-lane ramps at Blue Heron and Fruita State Park
Bathroom: Pit toilets at put-in and take-out

This is a beautiful stretch with wide bends, lots of birds, and glimpses of the Colorado National Monument.

Highlights:

  • Opportunity to grab a bite or a drink in downtown Fruita after your float.
  • Great birding and peaceful environment.
  • Serene flat water float.

Watch Out For:

  • Afternoon upstream winds.
  • Look for warning signs as you approach islands; they will advise you of the safest route. Side channels in this area have been known to be completely blocked by downed trees. You may not be able to see these strainers at the time of entry into a side channel, so be prepared to portage if you take these routes. 

James M. Robb Colorado River State Park (Fruita) to Loma Boat Ramp

Distance: 4.4 miles
Boat Ramp: Multi-lane ramps at Fruita State Park and Loma
Bathroom: Pit toilets at put-in and take-out

This section is your gateway to Ruby-Horsethief Canyon and Westwater beyond. Expect a serene flat water float in this section. 

Highlights:

  • Last unpermitted section of the “town floats” before Ruby Horsetheif and Westwater canyons.
  • Great finish point with ample parking.
  • If you’ve got a Ruby permit and want to skip the boat ramp and add miles, this section is a great way to do it!

Watch Out For:

  • Exposure to sun.
  • Upstream windy conditions in the afternoon.

 

Safety and Stewardship Tips

  • Wear a Life Jacket: It’s required by law and could save your life. Free Save a Life Jacket loaner stations are available at many boat ramps.
  • DON’T Wear a Leash to Your Stand-Up Paddle Board: In moving water, this is an entanglement and drowning risk. 
  • Check the Flow: River conditions vary. Check the USGS flow gauge before you go.
  • Know Your Skill Level: While most sections are beginner-friendly, currents can increase with higher flows. Never float alone, and make sure your crew has a plan.
  • Respect Private Property: Use designated river access points and avoid pulling over on private land.
  • Leave No Trace: Pack it in, pack it out. Keep our waterways clean and beautiful.

Floating the Colorado River through the Grand Valley is one of the best ways to spend a day in western Colorado. Pick a section, gather your crew, and enjoy the beauty of our local river from a whole new perspective.

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