2011 Map of Slickhorn Canyon West

About this map

The San Juan River carves a deep, serpentine path through this corner of San Juan County, defining the geographical character of the landscape. This 2011 survey illustrates the river as it winds through a series of significant canyons and navigational hazards, including the Slickhorn Rapids and Government Rapids to the east. These features, along with the prominent Government Bird Rock, have long served as critical waypoints for river travelers navigating the silt-laden waters of the Colorado Plateau. The convergence of major drainage systems is evident where Grand Gulch meets the main river channel, while the deeply incised Slickhorn Canyon cuts through the high desert terrain. This map serves as a detailed record of the river's course and the named topographical features that have guided explorers and boaters through this remote corridor for generations.