Montezuma Creek

Montezuma Creek Rapid is a notable riffle near the confluence of Montezuma Creek with the San Juan River — the largest natural tributary of the San Juan in the lower canyon. The rapid is Class I–II and named for the ancient Pueblo community that once flourished in the Montezuma Creek drainage. At higher flows, tributary-delivered sediment and debris can alter the rapid character. This is a good lunch stop on the first day of a Sand Island–Clay Hills trip.