Between Palisade and Fruita, through Grand Junction and Clifton.
Floating the river is a Grand Junction area summer tradition. Rafts, tubes, stand up paddle boards, even the occasional canoe, launch and take out throughout the Grand Valley. Use the public boat ramps at Riverbend Park in Palisade, James M. Robb State park, for a fee, (Corn Lake, and Connected Lakes), the East end of Las Colonias Park, Riverside Parkway, Fruita at the Hwy. 340 bridge, and Loma.
The water levels are low, in the summer of 2022. You should check the current conditions and weather before you go. I check the flows below Palisade at https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/09106150/. When we took our last trip the gage height was about 3.75ft and it took about 2.5 hours to go from Las Colonias Park to Redlands Parkway boat ramp.
Above all, stay safe on the water, be sure to take your PFD. You can also borrow one at most put-ins if someone forgets their life vest. The summer temps can easily soar above 100F, so water and sun protection are definitely required. When the water level is higher and faster, people sometimes lose their lives. Know how to swim, and keep your safety equipment ready.
While there are some obvious dangers of self guided river trips, they can be a great way to get outdoors, and beat the heat. With some safety equipment (always wear a P.F.D, and ensure your passengers do too), and preparation, or with the help of a local guide, families make the trip safely every summer, and have a great time. Rent equipment throughout the area, and set up a shuttle back to your put-in. Get out, get on the river, but most of all, have a great float trip on the Colorado River!