Join Wild Expeditions for a private 8-hour journey through Bears Ears National Monument’s hidden canyon gems. Discover ancient sites and rugged beauty on this customizable hiking tour.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for physically fit individuals with good endurance due to long distance and rugged terrain.
Wildlife
History
Bears Ears holds significant archaeological sites with ancient dwellings and rock art dating back over a thousand years, highlighting the ancestral Puebloan culture.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting the fragile desert ecosystem and cultural artifacts while promoting responsible, low-impact tourism within Bears Ears.
Wild Expeditions
Join Wild Expeditions for a private 8-hour journey through Bears Ears National Monument’s hidden canyon gems. Discover ancient sites and rugged beauty on this customizable hiking tour.
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.
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Hike
Bring at least 3 liters of water per person to stay hydrated in the dry desert climate.
Wear Sun Protection
The exposed canyon terrain offers little shade, so use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Expect uneven, rocky surfaces requiring supportive footwear with good traction.
Respect Archaeological Sites
Do not touch or disturb ancient ruins to help preserve these fragile cultural treasures.
Hydration Pack or Water Bottles
Crucial for staying hydrated throughout the long hike in arid conditions.
Sun Hat
Provides protection from intense sun exposure on exposed canyon trails.
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Sturdy Hiking Boots
Supports ankles and provides grip on rocky, uneven terrain.
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment for variable temperatures throughout the day.
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