San Juan River Rafting Trips

Utah’s southeastern corner is a wonderland of dramatic topography and archaeological treasures. Rafting trips on the San Juan River are the easiest and best way to experience it all. In its upper reaches, the “River Flowing from the Sunrise” eases into the cream-colored sandstone of Comb Ridge and past ancient dwelling sites and petroglyph panels.

Although it is one of the fastest moving rivers in the country, the whitewater here is quite mellow, making the San Juan a great place for families, inflatable kayak enthusiasts, and first-time river runners. Archaeological sites are abound in the upper canyon, from ancient pueblo civilizations to recent Diné (Navajo) People, who call the area home today.

Disclaimer: In recent years, variable water levels have put Full and Lower San Juan River trips at risk of cancellation within one to two weeks of the trip launch. If a trip is cancelled due to low water levels, guests can choose to receive a full refund or join a different trip as a replacement, such as Labyrinth Canyon or Desolation Canyon. Read more about that here.

Acknowledging the Indigenous inhabitants of the San Juan River. In an effort to end the erasure of the traditional inhabitants of this land, Holiday acknowledges the Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute), Southern Paiute, Diné (Navajo), Hopi, and Pueblos people, who have lived along the San Juan since long before this continent was colonized. You can learn more about our land acknowledgements here.

3 Day Upper San Juan

Starting Price: $1,150

Minimum Age: 5

Meeting Location: Bluff, UT

Play in sand waves and class I–II whitewater
Marvel at Comb Ridge, one of the dramatic geologic features of the greater Monument Upwarp
Swift moving river that cuts through astounding red rock landscapes
Explore “River House,” an incredible Ancestral Puebloan dwelling site showcasing the elegant design of their civilization
A perfect starting place for any new whitewater river runner

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4 Day Lower San Juan

Starting Price: $1,320

Minimum Age: 5

Meeting Location: Blanding, UT

This primarily class I and II whitewater trip is perfect for newcomers, with one class III rapid to test your mettle
Float through the heart of Goosenecks State Park, famous for its deep, exquisitely cut canyons
Countless side hikes and points of interest, including gold prospector’s homestead
Discover a hidden grotto up Slickhorn Gulch and swim in the freshwater pool there
Be astonished at the geologic wonders, such as 1,000 foot canyon walls and features such as Cowboy Hat and Eagle Rock

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5 Day Full San Juan

Starting Price: $1,485

Minimum Age: 5

Meeting Location: Blanding, UT

With class I–II whitewater, and one class III rapid, the San Juan River will offer beginner rafters and inflatable kayakers just enough chances to get wet
Explore the many cultural sites, such as “River House” and the Butler Wash Petroglyphs
Discover the hidden secrets left behind by gold miners, prospectors, and homesteaders
Experience dramatic changes in geology as the canyon walls grow, exposing older rock layers
Enjoy every highlight the San Juan has to offer on this extended expedition

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River Trips on Utah’s San Juan River

To the south, the river borders the present day territory of the Diné (Navajo) People. For thousands of years, the water of the San Juan River has meant life to various cultural groups; their artifacts still line the walls and side canyons of the river.

Born high up in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, both of the San Juan’s East and West forks originate above 10,000 feet. The river is dammed by the Navajo Dam, just north of the New Mexico state line, before joining with its largest tributary, the Animas River. It meanders through the Four Corners region before passing through Bluff, Utah.

In its lower reaches, the San Juan rushes by the town of Mexican Hat, Utah, then curves around the deep canyon of Goosenecks State Park. Although the San Juan is one of the steepest, swiftest rivers in the United States, it has only a handful of rapids, making it a great option for families with young children or first-time rafters.

Why Choose Holiday?

Holiday recognizes and respects Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of this land, the enduring relationship that exists between them and these territories, and are constantly making strides to learn, educate, and grow our awareness.

Through his relationships with indigenous friends and mentors, Dee Holladay learned the importance of honoring those who came before and recognizing that we are visitors to these lands that many people hold sacred, call home, and have done so for centuries. His strong environmental ethic was shaped and informed by these relationships.

His legacy is alive and well today. We remain a family-owned company dedicated to offering safe, fun, and rewarding trips for people from all walks of life.

Questions?

Give us a call and our office team will be happy to answer any questions you may have!