San Juan River & Hummer Cliff Dwelling Expedition in Bluff, UT
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to paddle 8 miles and manage some hiking over uneven terrain during site visits.
Overview
Paddle through Utah’s San Juan River and explore a thousand-year-old cliff dwelling on this unique private adventure. Experience history and nature combined for an unforgettable day.
San Juan River & Hummer Cliff Dwelling Expedition
Ages 6+ • 6.5 Hours • River Float + Hummer Tour Combo Trip • Up to 12 People
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of a unique combination tour on the San Juan, where you’ll paddle 8 miles in a kayak, explore ancient rock art and a 1000-year-old cliff dwelling, and enjoy a scenic 4x4 ride back. This wilderness adventure offers an intimate connection with nature and history, all in one unforgettable day.
Enjoy the best of two of our favorite trips!
About
Can’t decide between a land based tour or the river? This combination tour includes the best of two of our favorite trips meshed into one amazing day on the San Juan. You’ll float 8 miles paddling your own kayak or jump in a tandem with someone you love. Two short easy hikes will take you to one of the largest rock art panels in North America and a 1000 year old cliff dwelling. Unlike Mesa Verde and other National Parks this is a wilderness expedition and we often have these world class sites to ourselves. We’ll feed you lunch on the peaceful banks of the river and end the day with a rugged 4×4 Hummer ride back to Bluff.
Recommended Age:
6+ years old (Call us if you have younger explorer)
Included
- Solo or Tandem Kayak
- PFDs and Paddles
- Professional Guide
- Dry bag for cameras, phones, etc.
- Fresh prepped Lunch by the river
- Transport to and from the river
What to bring
- Swimsuit or clothing that will dry quickly.
- Water shoes or tennis shoes you can get wet and muddy.
- A small day pack
- A Reusable Water bottle for each person
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Sunhat
- Sunglasses with Chums or neckband
Adventure Tips
Wear water-friendly footwear
Choose shoes that can get wet and dry quickly since you’ll be kayaking and exploring rocky riversides.
Bring sunscreen and a wide-brim hat
Utah’s desert sun can be intense; protect your skin and eyes during river paddling and the 4x4 ride.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Carry enough water to stay hydrated during paddling and off-road driving in warm weather.
Follow Leave No Trace principles
Respect ancient sites and natural surroundings by not touching the rock art or leaving waste behind.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert bighorn sheep
- Golden eagles soaring above cliffs
History
The cliff dwelling explored on this trip dates back approximately 1000 years and provides insight into the ancestral Puebloan culture that once thrived here.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting ancient sites and minimizing human impact to preserve these landscapes for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Monticello
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight kayak paddle
Facilitates efficient paddling during the river portion of the trip.
UV-protective hat
Protects your face and neck from intense sun exposure during hours on the river and off-road.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the physical activity and heat.
Sturdy hiking shoes with grip
Provides traction and comfort when exploring cliff dwellings and rocky terrain.