Green River (Green River State Park to the Confluence) Overall Fastest Known Paddle: 14H, 42M, 29S

(this is also the 1st tandem male FKP)

Ryan Ognibene, age 35, Boulder, CO & Adam Blanchard, age 38, Salt Lake City, UT

June 10, 2023

120 miles (approx.)

Unsupported

This is the overall FKP as well as the fastest tandem male FKP

Start: Green River State Park boat ramp, 4:24am.

Finish: Green River/Colorado River confluence. 7:06pm.

Boat: Wenonah Sundowner Tandem Canoe 18’

This flatwater paddling route spans approximately 120 miles from Green River State Park to The Confluence with the Colorado River. The journey traverses Labyrinth and Stillwater Canyons, featuring towering sandstone walls, ancient petroglyphs, and a true wilderness experience.

Typically completed in 10–12 days, this attempt was finished in an impressive 14 hours, 40 minutes, and 32 seconds, making it a remarkable endurance paddle that relied on strong river flow and efficient navigation.

Route Breakdown
Section 1: Green River State Park to Ruby Ranch (0–23 miles)
Terrain: Flatwater with minimal current; open desert landscape.
Highlights:
Crystal Geyser – a rare cold-water geyser.
Initial miles provide easy paddling, though headwinds can be a factor.

Section 2: Ruby Ranch to Mineral Bottom (23–68 miles)
Terrain: Winding river through Labyrinth Canyon with towering sandstone cliffs.
Highlights:
Trin Alcove Bend – a notable scenic area.
Bowknot Bend – a famous seven-mile loop in the river.

Section 3: Mineral Bottom to The Confluence (68–120 miles)
Terrain: Entering Stillwater Canyon, the river deepens.
Highlights:
Ancient petroglyphs and Ancestral Puebloan ruins.

The final stretch before The Confluence is one of the most remote sections.
Logistics & Considerations

Water Supply: The Green River is silty; carrying sufficient fresh water is crucial.

Weather & Wind: We had a beautiful day with mild temps and minimal wind.

Shuttle Service: Since motorized boats are prohibited beyond The Confluence, a jet boat shuttle from Tex’s Riverways is recommended for extraction.

Permits: No permit is required from Green River State Park to Mineral Bottom.
A Canyonlands National Park Backcountry Permit is mandatory for travel beyond Mineral Bottom into Stillwater Canyon and a permit for Labyrinth Canyon is also needed.