The San Juan is one of the steepest, fastest-moving rivers in the United States. With an average drop of eight feet per mile, it’s steeper than the average gradient of the Colorado River in Grand Canyon! Although steep, its rapids are relatively mellow. This makes the San Juan a great place for families, inflatable kayak enthusiasts, and first-time river runners. Archaeological sites from ancient pueblo civilizations and more recent Diné (Navajo) People abound in the upper canyon. And stunning exposures of Colorado Plateau geology dominate throughout. Visiting the River House ruins and rafting through Comb Ridge and the famous Goosenecks of the San Juan are particular highlights.
The San Juan is also where commercial river running was born. Norman Nevills began operating scenic float trips from Mexican Hat through the Grand Canyon in 1938. The San Juan River is especially known for the phenomenon of sand waves. Shifting sand on the bottom of the river creates waves that migrate upstream until they collapse under their own weight. These large but mostly harmless waves make for a particularly thrilling ride in an inflatable kayak. Five-day trips give you the best of both worlds: the archaeology of the upper canyon and the wilderness of the lower.
Featured Review:
“A river trip offers families the opportunity to see stunning landscapes and to re-connect with children and adults of all ages. There is nothing electronic, just the natural environment, conversations, and sunshine. It is simply magical.” (Andrew and Leigh Ann Morse)
Read more: The Insider’s Guide to Floating the San Juan River in Utah
