Discover the stunning beauty of Utah’s San Juan River on a half-day SUP and kayak trip with Wild Expeditions. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a relaxing paddle in a breathtaking setting. Keep reading to learn more about this unique outdoor experience!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners and casual paddlers with basic fitness
Wildlife
History
The San Juan River has been a vital waterway for Native American tribes for centuries, and its rugged landscape holds rich archaeological and cultural significance.
Conservation
Wild Expeditions emphasizes Leave No Trace principles, working to protect the river’s pristine environment for future generations.
Wild Expeditions
Discover the stunning beauty of Utah’s San Juan River on a half-day SUP and kayak trip with Wild Expeditions. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a relaxing paddle in a breathtaking setting. Keep reading to learn more about this unique outdoor experience!
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.
Wear quick-drying clothing and layers
Mornings and evenings can be cooler, so dressing in moisture-wicking layers keeps you comfortable.
Apply sunscreen generously
The Utah sun can be intense, especially on the water, so protect your skin during the trip.
Bring plenty of water and snacks
Stay energized and hydrated during the paddle to maximize your enjoyment and safety.
Arrive early for gear fitting and instructions
Getting there ahead of time ensures a smooth start and proper equipment setup.
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during your paddle and potential splashes.
Sunhat or cap
Protects your face from the sun while on the water.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and helps you see clearly into the water.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Capture scenic moments without risking damage to your device.