San Juan River, Mexican Hat to Clay Hills, UT

This popular 56 mile stretch is famous for geological wonders and interesting side canyon hikes, mild/moderate rapids and flat water. First night orientation at 7.p.m. and overnight stay at Recapture Lodge in Bluff, UT followed by our river trip in the world-famous Goosenecks section of the lower San Juan Canyon, a remote wilderness setting.

We take out the last day after lunch and return to Bluff at the lodge (where you may leave your car) by 5.p.m.. Lodging this last night is on your own. We strongl advise that you do not plan to fly this last night to due unknowns of river travel on the take out day.

We provide all boating gear including row rafts and a few, very stable, inflatable kayaks ("Duckies") for those who would like a bit more adventure and a chance to use river reading and basic kayaking skills.

We serve healthy meals, featuring many locally grown foods and dutch oven cookery; participants are asked to help with light camp chores. There is a portable toilet set up in camps.

Weather is usually clear with temperatures in the 70-80's; an occasional short but dramatic thunderstorm may delight desert travelers this time of year.

This is wonderful "locals" time of year to visit the San Juan: we will have this lower canyon almost to ourselves! Our longer trip format accommodates shorter day-lengths and lower flows yet provides ample opportunities for side-canyon hikes, natural history instruction, time in camp to read and relax. We might see big horn sheep along the way as well as most certainly wildflowers, birds and other small mammal life.

We share short readings of desert literature and river rat tales around evening campfires.

The river includes flat water and small rapids with a challenging class III at Government Rapid. Hikes are 1/4 to 2 miles round trip and optional. The trip is suitable for novice boaters if you are comfortable camping outdoors for a week. Call if you have questions regarding the nature of the activity and comfort.

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