Four Day San Juan River Journey from Sand Island to Mexican Hat - Moab

Four Day San Juan River Journey from Sand Island to Mexican Hat

Moabmoderate

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.

Overview

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.

Details

Embark on a captivating four-day river journey along the San Juan River, guided by PhD Historian Andrew Gulliford. Departing from Sand Island near Bluff, Utah, this immersive adventure offers a rare opportunity to experience the stunning desert landscape while uncovering stories of ancient Puebloan cultures. As you drift downstream, traditional cowboy-style meals provide a rustic culinary experience far removed from the everyday. The trip combines slow, reflective river travel with exciting exploration of ancient ruins and cultural landmarks, providing a perfect balance of education, adventure, and relaxation. Watch breathtaking desert sunsets paint the sky and enjoy vibrant starlit nights surrounded by the tranquility of the canyon. This private expedition, offered by Wild Expeditions, delivers more than just a trip; it’s a journey into history, nature, and shared discovery. Perfect for those eager to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world, this river journey promises unforgettable memories and a profound sense of place in the heart of Utah’s iconic landscape.

Adventure Tips

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.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Ancient rock art sites upstream of Sand Island
  • Secluded side canyons accessible only by paddle

Wildlife

  • Bighorn sheep
  • Great blue heron

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
sunrise
sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Cliff overlook near Mexican Hat
  • Sand Island riverbanks
  • Ancient Puebloan ruins along the shore

What to Photograph

River reflections
Desert wildlife
Ancient petroglyphs

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Dry Bags

Essential

Protects your gear from river water and unexpected splashes.

Wide-Brimmed Hat

Essential

Provides necessary sun protection during long daylight hours.

summer specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Allows adjustment for temperature changes from warm days to cool evenings.

all specific

Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Essential

Supportive footwear for exploring shoreline ruins and trails during stops.

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