Our Story

Born on the River

16 years of guiding adventures in the San Juan Mountains. Meet the team that makes it possible.

Est. 2008

How It All Started

Jake Tanner grew up paddling the Animas River before he was old enough to drive. After a decade guiding for other outfitters, he started Wild River Expeditions with one raft, a beat-up truck, and the conviction that smaller groups meant better experiences.

Today we run a fleet of 12 rafts, employ 8 full-time guides, and offer year-round adventures — but we still cap every trip at 10 guests. Some things should not scale.

Expedition camp set up beside a mountain river at sunset

Our Guides

Wilderness First Responder certified. Deeply local. Passionate.

Jake Tanner

Jake Tanner

Founder & Lead Guide

Sierra Valdez

Sierra Valdez

Hiking & Camping Lead

Tom Bradley

Tom Bradley

Fly Fishing Guide

Safety Standards

WFR Certified Guides

Every guide holds a current Wilderness First Responder certification. Safety is not negotiable.

Equipment Inspected Daily

Rafts, helmets, PFDs, and all gear inspected before every trip. We replace equipment on schedule, not when it breaks.

Small Group Policy

Maximum 10 guests per trip. Your guide knows your name, your comfort level, and exactly where you are at all times.

Adventure Awaits

Pick your trip and let us handle everything else.

Book Your Trip