Adventures in Utah’s Canyons Area

San Juan County, Utah, is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. With its rugged canyons, ancient ruins, vast desert landscapes, and incredible rock formations, this region offers some of the best hiking, boating, off-roading, and cultural exploration opportunities. From the iconic Monument Valley to the ancient ruins of Hovenweep, here are the best adventures you can embark on in Utah’s Canyon Area.

San Juan County Adventures

Top Adventures

Natural Bridges National Monument: One of the first national monuments in the United States, Natural Bridges is famous for its three massive sandstone bridges—Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo. Hikers can take a scenic drive with multiple viewpoints or tackle more strenuous trails that descend into the canyon for up-close views of the majestic arches.
Rainbow Bridge National Monument: Accessible by boat on Lake Powell or via a backcountry hike, Rainbow Bridge is one of the largest natural bridges in the world. The boat trip to Rainbow Bridge through the winding red rock canyons of Lake Powell is an unforgettable adventure, offering stunning views of Glen Canyon.
Boating and Water Adventures on Lake Powell: Lake Powell is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. This vast reservoir, which stretches into San Juan County, offers boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking opportunities. You can explore hidden coves, towering red cliffs, and sandy beaches or camp along the shore.
Off-Roading in Monument Valley: Monument Valley is one of the most iconic landscapes of the American Southwest, with its towering sandstone buttes and wide-open desert vistas. You can explore the area by taking a guided jeep tour led by local Navajo guides, allowing access to areas off-limits to the general public.
Four Corners National Monument: For a unique adventure, head to the only place in the United States where four states—Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado—meet simultaneously. At Four Corners National Monument, you can stand in four states at once!
Hovenweep National Monument: Hovenweep National Monument is an archaeological wonder, protecting six prehistoric villages built by the ancestral Puebloans. The stone towers and dwellings are perched on the edges of canyons, offering a glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the region.
Goosenecks State Park: For one of the most dramatic views in the Southwest, visit Goosenecks State Park, where the San Juan River twists and winds through a series of deep, gooseneck-shaped canyons. The view from the park’s overlook provides a stunning panorama of the river’s sinuous path, carved over millions of years.
Cedars State Park and Museum: Located in Blanding, Utah, Edge of the Cedars State Park features an ancient Puebloan ruin and one of the largest collections of Native American artifacts in the region.
St. Christopher’s Episcopal Mission: For a quieter adventure, visit St. Christopher’s Episcopal Mission near Bluff, Utah. The serene grounds of the mission offer visitors a place to reflect and learn about the spiritual and cultural history of the Navajo people.
Dinosaur Museum: The Dinosaur Museum in Blanding is a must-visit for families or dinosaur enthusiasts. The museum features life-size dinosaur models, fossils, and interactive exhibits highlighting the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the region. It’s an educational and fun adventure for all ages, offering a glimpse into Utah’s ancient past.

Best Places to Stay

Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa: A luxury stay emphasizing Native American heritage, perfect for exploring Monument Valley and nearby canyons.
Desert Rose Resort & Cabins: Offers charming cabins with views of the red rock landscape, close to Monument Valley and Valley of the Gods.
Recapture Lodge: A cozy, rustic lodge with easy access to San Juan River and Goosenecks State Park.
Stone Lizard Lodge: A comfortable stay with locally inspired decor near Edge of the Cedars State Park and Hovenweep.

Best Guiding Services

Wild Expeditions: Provides guided tours of Natural Bridges, Monument Valley, and river rafting on the San Juan River.
Bluff Mountain Adventures: Specializes in Monument Valley and Valley of the Gods jeep tours with local Navajo guides for cultural insight.
Lake Powell Houseboat Rentals: Lake Powell offers houseboat rentals and water sports equipment for exploring Lake Powell’s hidden coves and Rainbow Bridge.
Ancient Wayves River & Hiking Adventures: Guided rafting trips on the San Juan River and hiking tours to Hovenweep, providing cultural and natural insights.

Plan Your Adventure in Utah’s Canyons Area

San Juan County, Utah, is filled with endless opportunities for adventure, whether exploring ancient ruins, boating on pristine lakes, or hiking through some of the most scenic landscapes in the Southwest. With its rich history, stunning natural landmarks, and deep cultural roots, Utah’s Canyon Area offers unforgettable experiences for every type of adventurer.