Horsethief Canyon

Horsethief Canyon is a canyon near Fruita that follows the Colorado River and features steep rocky walls with diverse plant life throughout. The area provides habitat for native fish species and supports various wildlife populations in this protected region.

The canyon was an important area for Native Americans who fished and hunted there before European settlement. Its current role as a protected habitat developed after a dam project altered the original river flow in the region.

The Colorado Division of Wildlife manages this natural area to maintain native fish populations and protect endangered species within their original habitat.

To visit the canyon, drive south from Fruita on Highway 340 and then west on the county road into the area. The best time to explore is during moderate temperatures when conditions are pleasant for hiking or wildlife watching.

This area was deliberately created as replacement habitat after a major water project affected the natural environment downstream. This restoration role makes it a remarkable example of river ecosystem recovery.

Location: Fruita

GPS coordinates: 39.14967,-108.75894

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:04