San Juan River Paddle Report

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this river ranges from 500 to 2000 cubic feet per second (cfs). It is rated as a Class II-III river, making it a moderate level of difficulty. The river is divided into three segments; the upper section runs for 26 miles, the middle section runs for 27 miles, and the lower section runs for 30 miles.

The river features several rapids, including Government Rapids, Eight-Foot Rapid, and Big Drop Rapid, which are all Class III rapids. There are also several notable obstacles on the river, such as silt banks and sandbars, that require careful navigation.

The San Juan River is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, and visitors must obtain a permit to run the river. The permit allows for a maximum group size of 25 people, and visitors are required to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment.

Overall, the San Juan River is a challenging yet rewarding whitewater river run that offers stunning scenery and exciting rapids. It is important for visitors to check the streamflow range before embarking on their trip and to follow all regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.