BLUFF ATV/UTV FIELD GUIDE
Into Bears Ears: A Four‑Hour UTV Run to River House Ruin Along Comb Ridge
A focused 4‑hour UTV excursion from Bluff that delivers access to the two‑story River House Ruin and other sites unreachable by standard vehicles.
Into Bears Ears: A Four‑Hour UTV Run to River House Ruin Along Comb Ridge.
This roughly four‑hour outing from Bluff threads a narrow 4×4‑only road along Comb Ridge into the heart of Bears Ears, delivering visitors to the remote, two‑story River House Ruin and other cultural panels that aren’t accessible by ordinary rental cars.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Comb Ridge Backcountry Drive
The route follows a true 4×4 only road along Comb Ridge, the rugged spine that gives the excursion its off‑road character and access to places standard vehicles cannot reach.
River House — A Two‑Story Cliff Ruin
The centerpiece is the River House Ruin, a rare two‑story site reachable only by 4×4 or a San Juan float trip, giving visitors a concise window into the region’s archaeology without a river float.
UTV Access to Big Kachina Panel and More
Riding a five‑passenger UTV makes it possible to combine short, exciting drives with stops at rock art such as the Big Kachina Panel — sites that are otherwise difficult to reach by standard road vehicles.
What the day feels like
What the Excursion Feels Like
The trip is a compact but active backcountry run: you board a 5‑passenger UTV with a professional guide, ride along the Comb Ridge 4×4 track, and pause at cultural sites and overlooks before arriving at the River House Ruin — all within a roughly four‑hour window.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a small day bag, comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), a lightweight jacket for cooler temperatures, a dust‑protecting camera case, and a reusable water bottle.
The excursion includes a 5‑passenger UTV (Ranger 1000), a professional guide, snacks, water, and goggles.
The approximately four‑hour excursion is offered daily with departures at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the River House UTV Excursion?
The excursion is approximately four hours in duration.
When does the trip depart?
Departures are offered daily at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
What is the minimum recommended age?
The recommended minimum age is 6 years old; the operator asks that you call if you have a younger explorer.
What does the trip include?
The trip includes a 5‑passenger UTV (Ranger 1000), a professional guide, snacks, water, and goggles.
Can I reach River House any other way?
River House is accessible by 4×4 or by floating the San Juan River; the UTV excursion provides dry land access for those not taking a river float.
What should I bring to the trip?
Bring a small day bag, comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), a lightweight jacket for cooler temperatures, a camera with a dust‑protecting case, and a reusable water bottle.