The BLM recently issued an update on the permit rules for Ruby Horsethief canyon. In recent years, no-shows have plagued this popular stretch of river and have prevented would-be boaters from launching. Groups have reported swaths of camps unused, even on weekends, suggesting widespread abuse of the permit system. Last year, permit holders were required to check in with the ranger prior to launching. It appears the data from this check-in process, and likely complaints from fellow boaters, has led to a new permit penalty for no-shows: Any permit holder that is deemed a no-show will be prevented from getting a RHT permit until the end of the following calendar year.
“Starting this season, failing to check-in will not only result in a cancelled permit, you will be unable to book a trip through Ruby Horsethief until the end of the following calendar year. This will help prevent “no shows” and get more permits out there for recreators using our beautiful river corridor.”
– BLM Grand Junction Field Office
Online chatter so far has been supportive of the update. The full email is below.
Our friends at Whitewaterology published a recent trip report & tips for running a Ruby Horsethief trip.
