Rafting Trips on the San Juan River

Overview: The San Juan River parallels the northern boundary of the Navajo Reservation eventually emptying into Lake Powell.  As you journey down the San Juan, you enter a world of dramatic red rock, textured by time into alcove, cliff and canyon.  The river meanders across the Monument Upwarp, a giant anticline in the earth's crust, exposing fossil-rich limestone left by long-departed seas.  It contains some of the most unusual geological formations in the regon and some of the best examples of Indian rock art and ancient ruins easily accessible by short hikes from the river. This trip offers a leisurely river experience, which is ideal for those seeking a taste of Grand Canyon scenery without the thundering rapids.  It is an excellent choice for families introducing children to the river or for veterans on vacation from a Class V circuit.  Rapids are rated Class I-II.  These trips are the perfect place to start learning about whitewater and most outfitters offer inflatable kayaks for some hands on experience.  Trips start in Bluff or Blanding, UT. The Season runs from March-September with the minimum age of 5-7yrs. A full San Juan experience covers 84 river miles and takes 5-7 days. Trips originate in Bluff and finish at Clay Hills Crossing.   It is also possible to split the river into two sections.  On the quiet upper reach from Bluff to Mexican Hat, trips run from 3-5 days long covering 26 river miles.  On the lower section, Mexican Hat to Clay Hills Crossing (on Lake Powell), trips run from 4-5 days covering 58 river miles.  Also offered are 1 day oar and motor powered trips in the upper section originating in Bluff, UT.    Prices start at $675 per person.  Youth fares are available. One Day trips start at $165 per person.