Whether you’re looking to float the Colorado River to search for birds or explore the wild high deserts seeking out ancient fossils, Colorado Canyons Association (CCA) provides expert-led trips to enrich your experience in the area’s national conservation areas. 

“Our trips offer new, but accessible experiences close to home,” said Sara Brooker, CCA Operations Director. “The majority of the participants are usually seniors. You can expect to learn something new. Plus, you’ll have the chance to unwind and simply enjoy the beauty and peace of nature.” 

Freshly prepared meals, comfortable campsites, and unhindered night skies provide an unforgettable experience.

April 23-25: Geology-Paleontology of the Colorado River

Raft the river with CCA Paleontologist Rob Gay and learn about the billions of years of history written in the rocks. 

Paleontology-Geology Rafting Adventure - start: Apr 23, 2021 08:00AM

May 7-9: Birding on the Colorado River

$525 members, $575 non-members

Relax aboard an oar raft as you travel through Ruby and Horsethief Canyons. Marvel at the area’s serenity, while winding through dramatic sandstone canyons deep in the heart of the McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. Expert and novice birders alike are welcome. Don’t forget your binoculars!

Birding on the Colorado River - start: May 07, 2021 08:00AM

May 15: McInnis Canyons Paleontology Tour

$90 members, $115 non-members

Learn about the dinosaurs that used to roam your backyard. Join CCA Land Programs Director Rob Gay on a hiking tour of McInnis Canyons’ rich paleontology. Visit Dinosaur Hill, Fruita Paleo Area and Trail Through Time as you discuss (and see) the ancient creatures that used to inhabit the region. Expect light hiking (3-4 miles).

McInnis Canyons Paleontology Tour - start: May 15, 2021 09:00AM

June 4-6: Summer Solstice Yoga & Wellness Retreat

$600 members, $650 non-members

There’s no better place than the Colorado River to find balance, rejuvenation, and peace. Yoga instructor Julie Pomerantz leads this weekend rafting retreat. Practice yoga and meditation two to three times a day alongside the towering canyons and peaceful river of Ruby-Horsethief on this all-levels retreat. 

River Flow Yoga & Wellness Rafting Retreat - start: Jun 04, 2021 08:00AM

July 9-11: Astro Photography

$525 members, $575 non-members

Join professional night sky photographers, Christopher Eaton and Ethan Ball for a weekend under the milky way in Ruby-Horsethief Canyon. Learn techniques and tips for capturing the perfect starry shot. 

September 25: Eagle Rock Shelter by Raft

$200 members, $225 non-members

Find out what life was like for humans in the region nearly 13,000 years ago by exploring the Eagle Rock Shelter site with Colorado Mesa University Anthropology Professor, Dr. John Seebach. This site is best visited by river as you can get a sense of the landscape and how it shaped its inhabitants.

October 2: Dig for Dinos Paleontology Excavation

Price TBA

CCA Land Programs Director Rob Gay leads this paleo excavation. 

October 8-10: History of the Wild West

$525 members, $575 non-members

Learn about the cowboys, ranchers, and pioneers that used to inhabit our canyons on this weekend raft trip.

October 15-17: Backpacking Big Dominguez

Price TBA

Backpack through wild canyons and learn more about the history and geology of Big Dominguez Canyon. 

RESERVE YOUR SPACE!

Trips adhere to present health and safety guidelines. Reserve your spot at www.coloradocanyonsassociation.org/adventures. For trip details, call 263-7902 or email [email protected]