Join historian Andrew Gulliford for a unique 4-day San Juan River experience, exploring ancient ruins and wild landscapes from Sand Island to Mexican Hat. Disconnect, explore, and savor every moment of this remarkable journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level, comfortable with all-day outdoor activity including paddling and short hikes.
Wildlife
History
The San Juan River corridor features numerous ancestral Puebloan ruins, reflecting thousands of years of human history in the region.
Conservation
Wild Expeditions promotes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the fragile desert ecosystem and protect archaeological sites along the river.
Wild Expeditions
Join historian Andrew Gulliford for a unique 4-day San Juan River experience, exploring ancient ruins and wild landscapes from Sand Island to Mexican Hat. Disconnect, explore, and savor every moment of this remarkable journey.
Wild Expeditions is an adventure outfitter based in Bluff, Utah, offering guided trips across the San Juan River, Bears Ears National Monument, and surrounding canyon country. The company provides half-day and multiday experiences including stand-up paddleboard and kayak expeditions on the San Juan River, private Bears Ears hiking tours with 4x4 transport, Valley of the Gods sunset drives, and UTV excursions to River House Ruin.
Additional offerings include canyoneering in Fry Canyon, an introductory Bears Ears tour, a 3-day trail running retreat, vehicle shuttles between Mexican Hat and Clay Hills, and a four-day river journey from Sand Island to Mexican Hat led by PhD historian Andrew Gulliford. Many trips combine paddling, short hikes, archaeological site visits, and scenic 4x4 or Hummer rides to remote cliff dwellings and rock art.
Trips list professional guidance, provided gear, and tailored itineraries for private tours; multiday journeys include backcountry-style meals and historic interpretation. Wild Expeditions operates from Bluff, Utah, with access to the San Juan River corridor, Comb Ridge, Cedar Mesa, Fry Canyon, and Valley of the Gods. The operation emphasizes access to sites not reachable by standard vehicles, including UTV routes and Moki Dugway drives. Visitors can choose single-day options such as half-day SUP and kayak floats or more immersive options like the Sand Island to Mexican Hat river expedition. Trip durations range from 3-hour excursions to multi-day river journeys, with private itineraries and shuttle logistics available directly.
Base Location
Bluff, Utah
Gateway to Bears Ears & San Juan River
Tours Offered
11 Trips
Half-day to multi-day adventures
Private Options
Custom Itineraries
Private 4-hour to multiday tours
Special Experiences
Historian-led trip
Four-day river journey with Andrew Gulliford
Choose a half-day paddle, a private Bears Ears hike, or a multi-day San Juan River journey — check availability and book now.
Pack Lightweight, Waterproof Gear
Bring water-resistant bags and quick-drying clothes to keep your belongings safe from splashes and unexpected rain.
Carry Sufficient Water and Snacks
Although meals are provided, having extra water and snacks on hand can keep you energized throughout the day.
Wear Sun Protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing to guard against intense desert sun exposure.
Respect Archaeological Sites
Observe all posted rules to protect ancient Puebloan ruins and avoid touching fragile structures.
Waterproof Dry Bags
Protects your gear from river water and unexpected splashes.
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Provides necessary sun protection during long daylight hours.
summer
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment for temperature changes from warm days to cool evenings.
all
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Supportive footwear for exploring shoreline ruins and trails during stops.