Overview

Bluff Utah is a fantastic place, found just two hours south of Moab. This crossroads is at the center of ancient Native American culture as well as a major hub of outdoor recreation. Combine the two and hike through Comb Ridge in search of Anasazi cliff dwellings or float down the San Juan River for an up close view of the petroglyph panels. Bluff, UT will draw you back year after year as you strive to explore all that it has to offer.

Location

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Utah is where you will find Bluff. This small town sits in the San Juan River Valley with the Navajo Nation to the south, 300ft sandstone bluffs to the north, farmland to the east, and panoramic views to the west. Moab is a scenic two hour drive north on US-191.

Services/Amenities

Surprisingly, Bluff offers some great lodgings, all are locally owned and operated. Here, you won't find glam, just good old fashion hospitality and a touch of western flair. Spend the night at one of the local motels or inns or enjoy one of Bluffs historic buildings, turned bed and breakfast that mixes history with charm.

If you are looking to sleep under the stars, there are two campgrounds close to Bluff, one even offers a well stocked fishing pond. Both campgrounds offer RV sites and an assortment of amenities.

Although Bluff is located in a very remote location, it manages to offer some nice dining opportunities. There aren't a ton of options, but those available offer western motifs and great food, one even focuses on local ingredients. This is the west, so expect cowboy dinners with plenty of steak options. Surprisingly though, vegetarians will not feel ostracized, as they too will find options. Stop by the coffee shop for a quick afternoon pick me up and a small pastry.

Activities

The San Juan River, a major tributary of the Colorado River, flows just outside of Bluff, UT. This is the life blood of the town, offering a water source in the desert as well as a great spot for a bit of play.

The San Juan is the place to be for canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. Stick to the main river and keep your eyes open for Anasazi ruins and petrogylph panels. The Sand Island Recreation Area is is where you'll find a convenient boat launch and a great place for an afternoon picnic.

The best fly fishing is just below the Navajo Dam. Here the water is nutrient rich, cool and known for producing large trout.

Comb Ridge, an east-west running series of cliff faces is just outside of Bluff, UT, offers great hiking as you explore each tooth of the comb. Many Anasazi ruins lie nestled in these canyons, far from the crowds of tourist. Don't want to hike, take a ride on our four legged friends and enjoy a day of horseback riding. Tour groups offer hiking and horseback riding tours for the day or multi-day trips.

There is so much to explore around Bluff. Whether you hike, bike, horseback, canoe, kayak, or boat your way through the area you are sure to have an incredible time.

Attractions

Mother nature's attractions dominate the landscape and the sight seeing in this area. Just outside of Bluff, you will see the 300-ft sandstone bluffs, the towns namesakes. Under 50 miles away you will discover history in motion when you visit Monument Valley, Valley of the Gods, Four Corners Monument, and Hovenweep National Monument.

Bluff Historic District offers some of the towns original buildings. Between the historic district and a tour of Bluff Fort, you will feel like you are stepping back in time. Bluff Fort, offers an original log cabin from the original settlers and the oldest pioneer structure in the valley. In addition, the site includes three replica cabins, a stone monument wall dedicated to the original pioneers, and a log meetinghouse.

In addition to natural attractions and Bluff history, you can enjoy one of the many festivals held each year. In January, experience the annual Bluff Balloon Festival, mid-September brings the annual Utah Navajo Fair, and around Thanksgiving enjoy the Bluff Arts Festival.

Getting Here

The drive from Moab to Bluff is easy and scenic. The 100 mile, roughly two hour, drive south will pass quickly as you take in the high desert landscape. Watch the red and orange hues of the sandstone change with the sun. You will see the bluffs north of Bluff Utah before you see the historic city.

From Moab, take US-191 south to Bluff. US-191 will lead thru town.