The head is relatively wide with small eyes; in comparison, the tympanum is relatively large.

The dorsal ground color is variable and ranges from gray through buff, pale yellow, orange-red to brown.

[1] Eleutherodactylus rufescens is widespread on the slopes of Nevado de Colima.

The major threat to this species is the eruption of the Volcán de Colima.

The species' range includes the Volcan Nevado de Colima National Park.