Sophia May
Whitewater Rafting Durango Colorado – If you’re looking for an Animas River whitewater rafting adventure, you’re not alone. The Animas is home to approximately 9 percent of Colorado’s commercial rafting trips, and tens of thousands of happy clients come to paddle each year.
Surrounded by the majestic vistas of the San Juan Mountains, the Animas River runs more than 100 miles of rapids through southwestern Colorado. Today, many trips of varying length and difficulty are possible on the Animas River.
Whitewater Rafting Durango Colorado
On the more leisurely side, many families and first-time visitors choose to take quarter-day, half-day or full-day trips on the Animas River. There are also several popular multi-day itineraries for those looking to experience more of the world’s white waters. Colorado’s Animas River divides into two notable sections: the Upper Animas River and the Lower Animas River.
Colorado River Rafting Trips
Whitewater Rafting Difficulty: Near Durango, the Animas River is divided into two distinct sections to cater for beginners and advanced rafters. The Lower Animas are classified as Class II-III rivers, while the Upper Animas are Class IV-V rivers.
The Lower Animas River covers 22.5 miles of navigable waters, perfect for families or novice paddlers. Many local agencies offer quarter-day, half-day and full-day tours to suit your budget and schedule. The section is classified as Level II-III. It’s not considered very difficult, but has some fun sections, like the Durango Whitewater Park.
Typically, boats will use the Baker Bridge or Tempo Road entry points to start their journey. The trip typically ends at 32nd Street, 9th Street, the Four Corners River Movement, or the High Bridge entrance as the river approaches and flows through Durango.
The Upper Animas River is one of the most challenging whitewater stretches in the United States and the world! For experienced rafters only, the Upper Animas is a difficult route that winds its way through a series of 14,000-foot mountains along the Durango-Silverton Railroad.
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The Upper Animas has a long stretch of consistently challenging trails, such as the aptly named Ten Mile Rapid. There are very few Class IV or V rapids along the Upper Animas River that aren’t around the corner.
Many paddlers choose to spend a full day, two days or three days enjoying a first-class whitewater experience on the Upper Animas River.
You can often combine a 1/2 day rafting with a zip line tour, a scenic train ride or an exciting mountaineering package. Just ask your guide. The Animas River is a tributary of the San Juan River that flows east in Pagosa Springs.
Aside from hiking or riding the rail, a day trip to the Animas River Rapids is one of the few ways to explore the Chicago Basin, a popular tourist destination in the Wymenochie Wilderness. Likewise, the San Juan National Forest offers many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, wildlife viewing and other outdoor pursuits. Overnight at exclusive base camp by the river. Unwind after a busy day at Silverton Stretch as your guide entertains you and cooks a meal around the campfire. Day 2 begins with a leisurely breakfast before continuing upstream through long class III and IV rapids. The day ends with a ride back to Durango on the famous D&SNG train.
Top 7 Places To Go Whitewater Rafting In Colorado
“Upper Animas Madness!!” We recently went on a 2 day trip to the Upper Animas and it was amazing! As a Durango resident for 2 years, I never got to experience the Silverton and Needleton parts of the river and keep missing out! The rapids are not for the faint of heart, but they are one of the most beautiful areas of Colorado that I have seen. Needleton Bar and Grill is a great place to spend the night and I wish I could spend more time there. Really good food, spectacular stargazing and a great atmosphere. The Mountain Waters crew of Andy G., David Pally, Anna, Spencer, Darion and Skippy are friendly, experienced and a once in a lifetime experience. This is the ultimate tour in Durango and I highly recommend Mountain Waters for the best rafting experience in the Southwest!
Photos * MWR in Outside Magazine * Upper Animas in Durango Herald * Durango Silverton Train and Mountain Water Rafting Video
Experts say Super Soaker is one of the most popular whitewater rides in Colorado, offering a variety of whitewater rides for all ages and abilities. For families and beginners, try the Lower Animas or Upper Animas for some of the most exciting and scenic Colorado whitewater rafting you’ll find.
Looking for a rafting adventure for kids? The Animas River near Durango, Colorado is just that! Lower Animas River Rafting Trips offer fun family trips for children ages 4 and under.
Mountain Waters Rafting
For these rafting trips you need to wear safe shoes (chacos/Tevas are acceptable), quick dry clothes (avoid cotton). Wetsuits and helmets can be rented on site.
Always a good idea to bring sunglasses and a water bottle! It’s also smart to wear some crocs so you don’t lose the shade and bring your own sunscreen.
Are you ready for some serious whitewater action? The Upper Animas River offers an adrenaline-fueled rafting trip! This Animas River rafting trip is a full-day adventure for anyone looking for an action-packed experience.
Animas River has everything from family outings to senior outings to rapids bookings! Take an Animas River rafting trip in Durango, the epicenter of Southwest Colorado adventure.
Durango Rafting Co.
Southwest Colorado is a must-see for many travelers. From the ruins of Mesa Verde to the scenic San Juan Mountains, this corner of the state is a gem. Durango is home to many historic sites, including the famous Durango to Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the premium white water on the Animas River and the San Juan National Forest.
Durango has a full-service regional airport and is easily accessible by car. Several major U.S. and state highways approach the city from all directions, forming the scenic San Juan Viaduct. Colorado’s rich history and endless activities make Durango the perfect small town for a Colorado vacation!
Also consider white water rafting on the Dolores River and a day trip to a scenic canyon, with options for 3, 6 or 10 days.
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