Eagle Float Birdwatching

golden eagle flying

A unique chance to go birdwatching on the Colorado River

The Eagle Float is Canyonlands Field Institute’s iconic tribute to those who don’t mind waking up a little early to see the magnificent waterfowl of the Colorado River. Anybody is welcome, from serious birders looking to check off a few bucket list species, to outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience a fun, relaxing float through a beautiful canyon.

Guest Experts

We team up with Sherri Griffith Expeditions for this motorized day trip through Ruby Horsethief Canyon as we spy for eagles, falcons, and other magnificent birds along the river corridor. Enjoy expert interpretation from partners like the Tracy Aviary and Hawkwatch International.

Calling all Birders

Whether you keep your dog-eared Sibley Bird Guide close at hand, or you can’t tell a grebe from a pelican, this trip will be sure to capture your imagination. The serene sandstone of Ruby Horsetheif canyon pairs well with the crisp, clean winter air. Be sure to bundle up for this February trip, and feel free to bring a thermos full of a hot beverage!

We also offer non-motorized overnight trips through Ruby Horsethief Canyon!

Location:
The Colorado River: Loma, CO to Westwater, UT
Date:
2022 dates, TBD
Group Size:
Minimum of 12, maximum of 16
Cost:
$170/person. Members: $161.50/person
Challenge:
Level
?

This is how we rate the challenges you might face on a CFI trip.


Level 1

  • Low level of physical activity, minimal movement required
  • 0 nights spent camping or in the field
  • Hiking or walking 0-2 miles per day

Level 2

  • Medium level of physical activity, some movement required
  • 1-4 nights spent camping or in the field
  • Hiking up to 4 miles per day
  • Flatwater or mild whitewater rapids

Level 3

  • Medium or high level of physical activity
  • 1-5 nights spent camping or in the field
  • Hiking up to 5 miles per day
  • Class I - III whitewater rapids

Level 4 - Challenging

  • High level of physical activity
  • 1-6 nights spent camping or in the field
  • Hiking 5 or more miles per day
  • Class IV whitewater rapids
CFI's Essential Eligibility Criteria outlines specific challenges that you may face on CFI trips. Please consult the EEC for information on responsibilities of participants.

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Trip Narrative

Through a partnership with Sherri Griffith Expeditions, we are able to motor through the entirety of Ruby Horsethief Canyon, from Loma, CO to Westwater Ranger Station, UT on this day trip. Like all our adult adventure seminars, we will bring on guest experts to teach us about bird identification, flight patterns, and bird behavior.

We will report sightings as data to federal and state wildlife agencies. Over the years, the late February and early March sightings have varied from six to fifty eagles on this stretch. Temperatures and conditions can be chilly so proper clothing and footwear is essential.

We can run the trip in inclement weather however, extreme weather may cause us to cancel or postpone the trip. We will reconfirm with all participants 48 hours prior about the trip status. If we cancel, you have the option for a reschedule, gift certificate to another program or full refund.

Shuttle service from the takeout location to the put-in location is provided! We will return you to your car at Westwater Ranger Station in the afternoon.

Need to Know

  • CFI staff are trained educators and guides with first aid and CPR certifications. Back-country trips carry satellite communications devices.  
  • All cook and dishware, meals, snacks, and river gear are provided by CFI.   
  • Tents are provided and sleep kits (sleeping bag, sleeping pad) can be borrowed at no additional cost 

FAQ

Some people say food is the most important part of the adventure. On all our overnight trips, CFI will provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a morning and afternoon snack, and an appetizer before dinner. If you have a dietary restriction or food allergy, note it on your medical form so we can best prepare.

Depends on the trip. As a general rule, CFI provides all group gear related to fully outfitting your trip. Specialized gear like PFDs, wetsuits, dry bags, educational materials are all provided by CFI. Additionally, we take care of all kitchen and dishware needs. 

Find out more about trip specific packing.

Most importantly, a willingness to slow down, connect to your surroundings, and experience the moment. Additionally, participants are required to bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, personal clothing, medication, and other essential personal items. Many gear items are available for rent. Reach out to us if you are interested in seeing a trip specific packing list, or learn more about trip specific packing here.

CFI provides options to rent gear:

  • Two person tent: $30 / trip
  • Sleeping bag: $20 / trip
  • Kid sleeping pad: $7 / trip
  • Adult sleeping pad (paco pad): $15 / trip
  • Package deal: Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and one tent per two people: $40 / trip

For any CFI summer camp, gear rentals are free!

Every CFI guide has either a Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification. Your trip leader will have a Wilderness First Responder certification. Anyone working with youth has passed a background check, and shuttle drivers are insured with clean driving records. Backcountry trips carry In-Reach satellite communication devices for emergencies. All guides have been evaluated by Canyonlands Field Institute as possessing the judgement, skills, and disposition required for mitigating risk in the field. 

As technology grows more and more invasive by the day, CFI promotes connection to what matters. To achieve this, all school and youth programs are unplugged and students are not permitted to bring electronic devices. Not only is there rarely cell service, devices are a distraction to our ability to connect to the present moment. On Private Group Trips or Adult Seminars, the use of devices is permitted but discouraged.

CFI works hard to ensure a positive experience for all guides and participants. Because of the unpredictable nature of outfitting, we have created a series of policies so maintain our ability to manage risk in the outdoors.

For critical information regarding cancellations, deposits, and other participant responsibilities, please view our trip policies page or contact us with any questions.

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CFI is a non-profit organization and fees are not taxed. By choosing CFI, you are supporting our efforts to provide lifechanging outdoor experiences for hundreds of children per year.  Scholarships are available on an as needed basis.