San Juan River Rafting
The San Juan cuts west across the southern edge of Utah through a spectacular series of wild canyons, past cliff dwellings and rock art, with the Navajo Nation along its south bank. It is the most archaeologically rich river trip in the region, and the most culturally complicated.
Class II to III, typically two to seven days depending on the reach. Most trips launch at Sand Island or Mexican Hat and take out at Mexican Hat or Clay Hills. A permit is required year-round between Montezuma Creek and Clay Hills. Suitable for families on the gentler reaches.
At a glance
- River
- San Juan
- Difficulty
- Class II to III
- Trip length
- 2 to 7 days depending on reach
- Common launches
- Sand Island, Mexican Hat
- Common take-outs
- Mexican Hat, Clay Hills
- Permit
- Required year-round, Montezuma Creek to Clay Hills
- Managing agency
- BLM Monticello Field Office
- Contact
- 365 North Main, Monticello, UT · (435) 587-1500
- Note
- South bank is Navajo Nation land
What the Trip Is Like
The San Juan is a moving-water trip rather than a whitewater one. Class II to III rapids keep it interesting without demanding technical skill, and the current is generally helpful. What draws people is what's on the banks: archaeological sites, rock art panels, and geology that includes some of the most dramatic entrenched meanders in North America.
It works well for families and for groups wanting a multi-day trip without the commitment of Desolation or the consequence of Cataract.
SectionsLaunches and Take-Outs
| Reach | Notes |
|---|---|
| Montezuma Creek to Sand Island | The upstream section. Less commonly run. |
| Sand Island to Mexican Hat | The classic shorter trip. Archaeological sites and rock art. |
| Mexican Hat to Clay Hills | The lower canyon. Longer, more remote, harder take-out. |
Many parties run Sand Island all the way to Clay Hills as a single longer trip.
LogisticsAccess Roads
- Sand Island, boat ramp and campground about three miles west of Bluff, just off State Highway 191.
- Mexican Hat, boat ramp at the east end of Mexican Hat, just off State Highway 163.
- Clay Hills. State Highway 276 to San Juan County Road 278, then eleven miles of dirt.
BLM warns that the eleven-mile dirt road to Clay Hills may become impassable to two-wheel-drive vehicles when wet, and recommends moderate ground clearance. If rain is forecast for your take-out day, that road is the thing to worry about, not the river.
Detailed maps showing road and river access are available from the BLM and US Forest Service offices in Monticello, the Blanding Visitor Center, the Monticello Visitor Center, the Moab Information Center, and the Canyonlands Natural History Association.
RespectThe Navajo Nation Boundary
The river's south bank is Navajo Nation land, as are upstream stretches. Camping, hiking or stopping on that side falls under tribal jurisdiction and may require separate permission. A BLM river permit does not by itself grant land access. Confirm current requirements before your trip.
The archaeological sites along this river are culturally significant and legally protected. Look, photograph, and leave everything exactly as you found it.
Guided TripsGoing With an Outfitter
Licensed outfitters hold their own permits, supply the boats and gear, and handle the shuttle. For most visitors this is the sensible way to run the San Juan, and on the harder sections it is the only realistic way without significant whitewater experience.
Publishing soon: Trip comparison Moab outfitters What trips cost
Private BoatingPermits
A permit is required year-round to float any section between Montezuma Creek and Clay Hills. We have confirmed that requirement with BLM but have not verified the current allocation method, application window, group limits or fees, and we're not going to publish figures we can't stand behind. See our San Juan permit guide for what we know and what to ask, or call the Monticello Field Office directly on (435) 587-1500.
Common QuestionsSan Juan River FAQ
How difficult is the San Juan River?
Class II to III. Enough moving water to be engaging, gentle enough for families and first-time multi-day boaters.
Where do San Juan trips start and end?
Most launch at Sand Island, about three miles west of Bluff, or at Mexican Hat. Take-outs are at Mexican Hat or Clay Hills. There's also an upstream reach from Montezuma Creek to Sand Island.
Is the San Juan good for families?
Yes, particularly the Sand Island to Mexican Hat reach, manageable water, short enough for a first multi-day trip, and plenty to look at.
Can I camp on the south bank?
The south bank is Navajo Nation land under tribal jurisdiction. Confirm what permission is required before your trip; a BLM river permit doesn't cover it.
What vehicle do I need for Clay Hills?
The last eleven miles are dirt and BLM warns they may be impassable to two-wheel-drive vehicles when wet. Moderate ground clearance is recommended.
Last reviewed: July 2026. River conditions, access and regulations change. Confirm current details with the managing agency before your trip, and if something here is wrong, tell us.