|
The San
Juan River cuts
through beautiful canyon country west of Bluff on its way to Lake
Powell. It offers some
pleasant opportunities for rafting and canoeing. Along the river
are some superb Indian pictographs and Anasazi ruins.
The most popular
trip is the 26 mile one or two day trip between
Bluff and Mexican Hat. The rapids in this section
are mild (Class I-II), though they can grow to
Class III during the spring runoff. Of note are the
3 to 6 foot waves that "mysteriously" spring up,
migrate downstream and then disappear. In late
summer water levels are low and rapids all but
disappear.
You can continue
past Mexican Hat through the renowned gooseneck
area and its towering canyon walls. You'll pass
numerous side canyons on your way to Clays Hill
Crossing at the eastern tip of Lake Powell. This
trip adds 56 miles and takes an additional 2-4 days
depending on water flow. This route has some
sporadic and mild Class I and II white water, which
can grow to Class III during high water. Along the
way are some excellent hiking opportunities into
Grand Gulch Primitive Area and other side
canyons.
|