We took the River and Ruins single day adventure from 9:00-3:30 pm. Initially I had been hesitant because of the price- especially when multiplied for a family of 5 adults; however, we had spent the past few days exploring ruins, and I felt it was time for something different. When I first registered I had wanted to do the raft but the booking link only came up for kayaks. We have some experiencing with kayaking on the Concord River, Concord, Massachusetts- so it seemed reasonable to do with 2 double kayaks and a single. The office is easy to locate on the main street in Bluff, Utah. There you will sign consent forms, get fitted for life jackets. Remember to leave all valuables – wallets and other stuff in your car. You will be given a small dry bag to put anything inside that you want to keep dry. The van drives you a short distance to the river entrance where you will meet your guides and get a brief introduction to kayaking. On the day we did the journey- the river was running higher with a stronger current than normal. These conditions were not ideal for beginners-so if you have little to no experience- make sure you understand the river conditions before going off. Because you are paddling downstream very little effort is needed and a swift current will push you ahead of the group as everyone launches. The guides are very good at being in front of you and behind you- so you don’t need to worry about where to go. One thing to know is that the river has rock and tree outcroppings in the center, and along the sides that you must avoid. Capsizing is always a possibility. Approximately half way (4 miles) down the river, you will stop and take a short climb to the Big Kachiinal Panel/ Lower Butler Wash to study the amazing and numerous petroglyphs which will be detailed for you by your Native American guide through story. Plenty of time is given to study the panel, and take photographs. Afterwards it is back on the river for another 4 miles. At this point you will disembark the river portion. Here you will have a nice lunch- with lawn chairs set up for comfort overlooking the river and hills. Lunch is buffet style with sandwiches, salad, chips, fruit and water. The crew will even set up a bucket bathroom for those needing relief. After lunch you board the jeeps for a ride to River House Ruins, remarkably preserved because of its isolation. Here you will learn about the structure, and daily life. You will be able to explore the rooms, kiva , petroglyphs and art- look for the white handprints! The ruin is not large- you will have plenty of time to explore and photograph. Please remember that the ruins are sacred to Native Americans- do not touch or disturb anything on site, do not litter, and keep hands away from petroglyphs and wall art as the oils on your hands can cause destruction. Respect is of utmost importance. Afterward you are back into the 4×4 jeep- we had one with a lower and upper level- for a roller coaster like ride near Comb’s Ridge where the pioneers crossed. Personally, I can’t imagine wagons crossing through all those dips. The jeep eventually arrives at the highway and it is a quick trip back to the store to collect your car. The day was worth every penny. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and the cultural experience was simply the best we had on our vacation. The shop provided detailed information on what to bring and to expect at several points before our vacation, returned inquiries either by phone or email promptly. 5 Stars for a great day!