Popular Expeditions
Colorado River Rafting
Cataract Canyon rafting is an anomaly. Its rapids rank along with those of the Grand Canyon in power and difficulty. In fact, the river becomes unruly during the run off in May and June.
Salmon River Rafting
There is a green hole in the middle of Idaho. A spot refreshingly empty on your highway map. A place where pavement never was…and wild rivers still are…the Salmon River- The River of No Return.
- Summary
- Sample Itinerary
- Trip Details
- About the Area
- Getting Here
- Checklist
San Juan River Rafting
The San Juan River offers some of the most amazing landscape found anywhere. From rainbow colored canyon walls to polished limestone swimming pools, this region always surprises and delights its visitors. From the canyon rim, we have an endless vista of Monument Valley.
Flowing faster than any other river we run, the San Juan’s 83 miles and scores of small rapids are perfect for children and inflatable kayaking.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore slickrock and prehistoric Indian ruins
- Classic Southern Utah desert environment, warm water
- Perfect rafting for children and inflatable kayaks
Read more about river rafting on Utah’s San Juan River
About Holiday
Find out more about Holiday River Expeditions
The Food
Learn more about the great food
The Gear
Gear description
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Outstanding guides
Aug 22, 2012 by Sandra Linstruth
The guides were outstanding! The food was delicious! I don't see how anything could have been better. This was definitely a 5 star experience. I would go with Holiday again in a heartbeat. Our group was especially interested in trying to see the solar eclipse, and the guides were most accommodating, even though it wasn't on the original agenda. They were wonderful.
love of the river
Aug 22, 2012 by Susan Daniels
The guides were wonderful -- T.J. and Loren knew interesting stories about the history of the canyon, told us about the geology, showed us fossils, told awful jokes, cooked amazing food and shared their love of the river and the canyon. They seemed to genuinely enjoy all the people too. And they accommodated the interests of the group from stopping at Sand Island so we could see the petroglyphs, to helping us get to the best place for a chance to see the eclipse of the sun. I was impressed by how the logistics and equipment have changed in the 40 years since I was last on a Holiday trip -- more elegant without changing the basic river experience. (The Bano, hand washing stations, drinking water, already inflated self-bailing boats! The food was always good, and it is even better now.)
I was prepared!
Jul 20, 2012 by Calleen Kenney
It was nice to be able to get a sense of the activities and scenery! Also, I'll admit I did look up what accommodations were made for bathrooms. I was surprised and delighted that you do explain that. Great to be prepared! Great website. Everything EXCEEDED my expectations. I had such an wonderful experience with Holiday Expeditions and learned so much about nature and preservation. Our guides were so knowledgeable and took us to amazing destinations! Such a great trip for the soul!
favorite vacation
Jan 31, 2012 by J. Jensen, AZ
The guides are always a pleasure to get to know and the food is fantastic. I have been on many vacations that include Hawaii and cruises and I can honestly say that the river trips with Holiday are my favorite.
shooting stars
Jul 01, 2011 by The Denham Family, UK
We came from England to spend 2 weeks in Utah. We spent a week in Zion and then headed East for our rafting trip. It was a highlight of the holiday, especially as we lay in our sleeping bags on the first night, in a long line, counting shooting stars. Totally memorable. Thank you for a really brilliant rafting trip. I would love to think we will be back sometime.
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Sample Itinerary
The first time I went down the San Juan was with a group of boatmen. It was hard to read the map because the scenery was so amazing… the water was moving so fast. It made us dizzy because our heads were busy snapping from one side of the river to the other to see the next scenic attraction.
Dee Holladay, Holiday River’s 1975 Reconnaissance Trip
The San Juan River drops eight feet per mile giving us an exhilarating white water rafting experience. We are surrounded by sandstone and limestone canyon walls as the river snakes through the countless goosenecks for which it is famous. Dozens of petroglyphs and ruins line these canyon walls and we will explore them as time allows.
The San Juan River is well known for a phenomenon known as sand waves. Often eight-feet tall, these sand waves appear to rise out of nowhere due to shifting sand on the bottom of this fast moving river. Those who are especially daring can take an inflatable kayak and explore the side canyons and sand waves on their own. In 1938, Norman Nevills began the very first commercial enterprise offering white water rafting trips from Mexican Hat through the Grand Canyon.
ITINERARY
One of the best advantages of a river rafting vacation is the flexibility of the daily itinerary. It can vary widely from one rafting trip to the next based on group desires, Mother Nature, and courtesy for other groups on the river. The typical itinerary below outlines a June four-day rafting trip on the San Juan River. The three and four day itineraries vary somewhat based on the seasonal water flows in May and June. For specifics on your river rafting trip’s date and itinerary, please speak to your reservationist.
Day 1:
Group meets in Blanding, Utah where we take a 30-minute scenic ride to the put-in point – Sand Island. We will float down the San Juan River till around lunchtime. We enjoy the beauty of River House Ruin, one of the best preserved ancient pueblo dwellings in the Southwest. That night, we will camp near Comb Ridge, the 600-foot edge to the enormous Monument Up warp. The scenery here is breathtaking!
Day 2:
This morning we will pass through the village of Mexican Hat before traversing the famed Goosenecks of the San Juan River. We may take an optional hike to the 1894 prospector cabin of Walter Mendenhall. Enjoy frequent sightings of Great Blue Heron that seem to lead the way into the labyrinth. Tonight we camp in the heart of the San Juan Goosenecks.
Day 3:
Those who are willing can hike the Honaker Trail, all that remains of the “1892 gold rush”. This entails a colossal 1200-foot vertical hike. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with an unforgettable view of Monument Valley. This is a good day to stop at one of the pristine beaches and explore 300 million year old fossils, remnants from another era. Government Rapid and a “siesta” at Slickhorn Gulch are the highlights of this fun day. With fern grottos and limestone swimming pools, Slickhorn Gulch is one of the most amazing side canyons along the Colorado System.
Day 4:
Fast moving white water drops you into Lake Powell after passing through the Grand Gulch Primitive Area. We continue across the lake to our take out point at Clay Hills Crossing. Our group will transfer to vans for a scenic two-hour ride back to Blanding, Utah.
Trip Details
Meet for your WhiteWater Rafting Trip
We meet for your whitewater river rafting trip in Blanding, Utah. If you are driving, your car can be left at the Blue Mountain Inn in Blanding. Departure time is 7:00 a.m. (Mountain Time), and so it is important that you attend our pre-trip orientation the night before your trip.
When you arrive in Blanding
The day before your river rafting tour, there will be a pre-trip orientation meeting at 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time). We will meet you in the lobby or just outside the Blue Mountain Inn’s front office. Your trip leader and other members of the crew will give you a short orientation on all aspects of river travel. At this time we will issue your waterproof bags and answer any questions you may have.
Beginning of the River Rafting Trip
On the morning of your rafting trip, plan to arrive promptly at 7:00 a.m. (Mountain Time) at the Blue Mountain Inn. We will then take a 30-minute van ride to Sand Island (4–Day trips in June or 3-Day trips in May) or a one–hour van ride to Mexican Hat (3–Day trips in June or 4-Day trips in May), where we will transfer to the boats and begin the river rafting tour.
After the White Water Rafting Trip
All river trips except 3-Day trips in May will disembark at Clay Hills Crossing where you will travel by van back to Blanding, Utah. Our 3-Day May rafting trips will disembark at Mexican Hat where you travel by van to Blanding, Utah. Our expected time of arrival back at the Blue Mountain Inn is 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Medical emergencies
Our river guides are trained in first aid and carry first aid supplies only. REMEMBER to bring your own prescription medicines. ALERT our guides to any medical problem you might have such as diabetes or allergic reactions. Once on the river, our location is remote and a long way from any hospitals, doctors, or pain-relieving medicines. Evacuations to modern medical facilities can be long and expensive. In case of evacuation and/or medical treatment beyond first aid, expenses incurred are the responsibility of the participant.
Cancellation Policy
If cancellations are made prior to 90 days before the river rafting vacation, monies will be refunded less a $50.00 service charge per person. If cancellations are made within 90 days and outside of 45 days of the rafting trip date monies will be refunded less a $100.00 service charge per person. Cancellations made within 45 days of the river rafting trip date are non refundable. Prior to 45 days to the rafting tour date we will transfer reservations to another trip in the same year with a $25.00 service charge per person. All policies will be enforced and we strongly recommend trip cancellation insurance. Cancellation of a white water river rafting trip is very unlikely, but we reserve the right to cancel any trip due to river or weather conditions or the lack of sufficient reservations. A full refund will be made if such is the case.
Insurance
Medical and cancellation insurance on a vacation plan can be obtained from numerous insurance companies. We offer plans underwritten by TRAVEL GUARD that cover accident, baggage and cancellation claims. An application should be enclosed with this information package. We encourage all to take advantage of this coverage. This is available to American and Canadian citizens as well as citizens of another country as long as you have a U.S. address. If you have questions give us a call. Also, if you are bringing expensive cameras, binoculars, or other items we suggest you have insurance coverage for them (commonly available through Homeowners Policies). In the event of a loss, our insurance will not cover those items.
Tipping the guides
Guests often want to know if tipping is appropriate after the rafting trip. If you feel the river guides have enhanced the enjoyment of your river rafting vacation, you may choose to direct a gratuity to the rafting trip leader in the form of cash or check. He/She will then distribute it evenly to the other crewmembers. The average contribution amount ranges between $15.00 and $25.00 per guest per day. The decision to tip is left completely to your discretion.
Beverages
We provide ice water, lemonade, two sodas per day per person and ample cooler space. If you choose to bring any specialty sodas and/or alcoholic beverages, we have no problem taking whatever you want to bring – within reason. Don’t bring beer, wine coolers or sodas in glass containers. Wine packaged in a box is ideal. Mark beverages that you bring so they are packed on your boat. Alcoholic beverages will need to be purchased prior to your arrival in Blanding. Please Note: There is no liquor, wine, beer, or wine coolers sold or served in Blanding, Utah.
If you have any questions prior to leaving for your white water river rafting vacation, we ask that you call our Salt Lake City office, Monday through Friday at 800-624-6323 (outside Utah) or 801-266-2087 (inside Utah). We’re happy to take the time to answer any questions. You may also contact us by email at holiday@bikeraft.com.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS THE NIGHT BEFORE THE RAFTING TRIP, OUR GREEN RIVER HEADQUARTERS NUMBER IS: 435-564-3273 (OR) LEAVE A MESSAGE AT THE BLUE MOUNTAIN INN’S FRONT DESK.
About the Area
Weather on the San Juan River
In May, June and July the daytime temperatures are 80 to 100 degrees, with nighttime temperatures around 50 to 75 degrees. During this season, guests will enjoy swimming in the San Juan River. Though this may seem very warm, the humidity is low in this region and the temps will drop at night to become somewhat chilly. We will get plenty of direct sunlight during the day, so bring a hat and a good sunscreen.
Bugs, snakes, and other pests are generally no problem. In fact, the lack of pesky insects is one of the reasons wilderness camping on the beautiful Colorado and San Juan Rivers is so pleasant. Any river rafting trip, however, is subject to an occasional localized insect hatch. During these hatches (most common in June to mid-July) mosquitos can be bothersome. Be sure to bring long sleeve clothing and a generous supply of repellent. Insect repellents that contain Adeet@ are by far the most effective during heavy hatches, but are also suspected of causing various health problems. Citronella-based products (skin-so-soft) work only in light hatches. We rarely see any snakes, but if the thought of them bothers you, try sleeping on the beaches or in a tent instead of rocky or bushy areas.
Hiking is a highlight of the river rafting trip, however, it is strictly an optional activity. Please be aware that some of the hikes on this rafting trip can be more strenuous due to heat and our elevation. There are many interesting short hikes available. Hiking can be done in durable sneakers or lightweight hiking boots. Remember that our ability to go hiking, swimming, and exploring will vary widely depending upon our time, and what other plans are ahead for our day on the river.
Things to see in the area
The Edge of the Cedars Anasazi Museum & State Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, La Sal and Henry Mountains, Newspaper Rock, Hovenweep National Monument, Monument Valley, Navajo National Monument, San Juan Goosenecks State Park, Comb Ridge/Abajo Mountains (Blue Mountain), Grand Gulch Wilderness Area, and Mesa Verde National Park.
Reading material you may enjoy:
San Juan River Guide Lisa Kearsley $17.95
Life in Stone Christa Sadler $11.95
The Educated Outlaw Harvey Lay Murdock (Grandson) $10.95
These books can be ordered online at our e-store, or by sending the appropriate amount listed above plus $4.95 shipping and handling for the first book, and an additional $2.00 for each book thereafter to Holiday River Expeditions, 544 East 3900 South, SLC UT 84107. This is available within the U.S. only. If outside the U.S. additional shipping and handling charges will be added. You can call 801-266-2087 for rates.
Getting Here
If you are flying
You can fly to Salt Lake City located 310 miles northwest of Blanding, Utah. From there you can rent a car or take a shuttle with Moab Luxury Coach (call 435-940-4212 or www.moabluxurycoach.com) to Blanding, Utah. If you need assistance with your travel arrangements, please ask your Holiday River Expedition reservation agent.
Lodging
Lodging before and after your trip can be booked at:
Blue Mountain Inn 435-678-3271 (indoor pool, hot tub, complimentary continental breakfast) *15% off best available rate to HRE guests who stay there. http://bluemountaininnblanding.com/
Gateway Inn Motel 435-678-2278 (locally owned, outdoor pool, continental breakfast) www.gatewayinnblanding.com
Four Corners Inn 435-678-3257 (continental breakfast) www.fourcornersinn.com
Super 8 435-678-3880 (indoor hot tub) www.super8.com
*When making advance reservations at the Blue Mountain Inn, mention that you are on a Holiday River Expeditions trip and you will be extended a discounted rate on your room (see above).
BE SURE TO MAKE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS!
If you are camping out
There is one campground in Blanding: the Kampark Campground (RV with full hookups & tent sites – 435-678-2770). There are also four Forest Service campgrounds in the Abajo Mountains 15 to 30 miles north of Blanding.
Holiday River Expedition's Travel Agents - Mateja Harrington & Cindy Swenson with Cruise and Travel Masters are happy to assist you with your travel plans. Contact Mateja or Cindy to take the work out of "Getting Here".
Toll Free - 800-264-0557 (You must ask for Mateja Harrington or Cindy Swenson) Or, do it yourself, we can help… Air Service to Salt Lake City (SLC) or Denver (DEN) TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS FROM SALT LAKE CITY to Green River, Vernal or Blanding, Utah Once in Salt Lake City most of our guests rent-a-car and drive to our meeting points. Salt Lake City to Green River 180 miles Shuttle Service to Green River or Blanding, Utah from Salt Lake City (Vernal is on a Charter basis only) TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS FROM DENVER to Green River, Vernal or Blanding, Utah Air Service to Moab (CNY) (52 miles south of Green River), Utah from Denver, Colorado
Email Attention Mateja or Cindy: askus@cruiseandtravelmasters.comivider-short"> Colorado and Utah Rivers
Gateway - Salt Lake City, Utah OR Denver, Colorado
Rental Cars
All rental cars are located in both terminals of the Salt Lake City Airport.
Salt Lake City to Blanding 300 miles
Salt Lake City to Vernal 180 miles
Air Service to Vernal (VEL), Utah from Denver, Colorado
Gear & Clothing Checklist
PROVIDED BY HOLIDAY RIVER EXPEDITIONS |
Printable PDF version |
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GEAR YOU MUST BRING OR RENT FROM HOLIDAY
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RECOMMENDED CLOTHING
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EARLY OR LATE SEASONS SUPPLEMENTS
(May and Sept. on all trips and in June on all Idaho, Yampa and Lodore trips.)|
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There is a greater chance of inclement weather on these trips which otherwise offer many advantages to the well-prepared river traveler. Polypropylene, fleece, pile, bunting, capeline, etc. are a few examples of trade names for a class of synthetic materials that retain their ability to insulate when wet (please note, cotton does not.) Your comfort on the trip starts with finding the right type of synthetic under and outer-wear and quality rain gear. We recommend Backcountry.com for your additional river trip needs. Backcountry.com offers a wide variety of gear to help you dress for success the for your river trip no matter what the weather decides to do. A prepared traveler is a happy traveler.
ITEMS YOU CAN BUY AT HOLIDAY'S ONLINE STORE: www.HolidayExpeditions.com/store or at our accessories stores in Green River and Vernal; the meeting points for our Cataract, Westwater, Ranch, Desolation, Labyrinth, Fisher Towers, Lodore and Yampa trips.
ITEMS YOU CAN BUY AT BACKCOUNTRY.COM: www.backcountry.com
