Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
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I EasyII NoviceIII IntermediateIV AdvancedV Expert/ExtremeVI Unrunnable
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Navajo Lake State Park provides excellent access to the San Juan River via a concrete boat ramp at the Pine Recreation Area featuring six launching lanes. The ramp accommodates vessels of various sizes, with a 104-foot elevation change between the top and bottom. A 60-foot courtesy dock with accessible decking is also available at Sims Mesa. Handicap-accessible ramps are located throughout the park for paddlers with mobility needs.
The San Juan River is a major waterway (Stream Order 9) with an average flow of 1,820 cubic feet per second and a 10-foot-per-mile gradient. Paddlers should expect moderate current and plan accordingly for their skill level. The river is world-renowned for fly-fishing, particularly for rainbow and brown trout, making this an excellent destination for combined paddling and angling trips.
Navajo Lake State Park caters to all types of water recreation, from kayaks and canoes to motorized boats. Note that the boat ramp operates seasonally from March 1 to November 30, with hours varying by staffing levels. The park offers campgrounds, day-use areas, and scenic riverside trails, making it ideal for multi-day paddling expeditions in northwestern New Mexico.
Nearby Recreation Areas
Simon Canyon Area of Critical Environmental ConcernLocated within