Durango, Co: Whitewater Rafting — Full Day With Lunch

Durango, Colorado is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, offering a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure on the Lower Animas River. This full-day experience takes adventurers through Class II-III rapids, led by expert guides in custom self-bailing rafts. Participants can expect essential safety gear, shuttle transportation, and a provided lunch as they enjoy the stunning natural scenery of the region. With the right preparation and mindset, this exhilarating journey is suitable for all skill levels, promising an unforgettable experience that leaves one eager to learn more.

Key Points

• Whitewater rafting on the Lower Animas River in Durango, Colorado, offering an exhilarating 6-hour excursion through Class II-III rapids.
• Experienced and certified river guides lead the group, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
• Custom self-bailing rafts with foot cups provide stability and comfort, making the activity suitable for all skill levels.
• The package includes essential safety gear, shuttle transportation, and a provided lunch during the excursion.
• Participants are advised to dress appropriately and follow the guides’ instructions for a safe and memorable whitewater rafting experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Details

The whitewater rafting excursion on the Lower Animas River in Durango, Colorado lasts for a full day, spanning approximately 6 hours of adventure.

Riders will navigate Class II-III rapids, experiencing an exhilarating blend of excitement and relaxation. Experienced and certified river guides lead the way, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Custom self-bailing rafts with foot cups provide stability and comfort, making the activity suitable for all skill levels. Included in the package are essential safety gear like helmets and life jackets, as well as a provided lunch to refuel during the outing.

With a mix of thrilling rapids and moments of tranquility, this whitewater rafting adventure is an excellent way to spend the day in Durango.

Highlights

Experienced and certified river guides lead the way, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Custom self-bailing rafts with foot cups provide stability and comfort, making the activity suitable for all skill levels.

A mix of excitement and relaxation awaits, as riders navigate thrilling Class II-III rapids on the Lower Animas River.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-timer, the whitewater rafting tour in Durango offers an unforgettable experience.

The highlight is the chance to take in the stunning natural scenery of the area while getting your adrenaline pumping.

With the right equipment and expert guidance, even beginners can confidently tackle the rapids and create lasting memories.

What’s Included

Comprehensive equipment and amenities come included with the whitewater rafting adventure, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for participants. Helmets and life jackets provide essential safety gear, while splash jackets offer protection against the river’s spray.

Shuttle transportation to and from the river is provided, along with the necessary rafts, paddles, and a pre-trip safety orientation and paddle instruction.

Lunch is also included, allowing guests to refuel and recharge midway through the excursion.

With these thoughtful inclusions, adventurers can focus on the thrill of navigating the Class II-III rapids without worrying about the logistical details. The full-day activity on the Lower Animas River promises an exciting yet well-supported experience for all skill levels.

Restrictions

While the whitewater rafting adventure offers an exhilarating experience, certain restrictions apply to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Children under 4, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, and those over 80 years old aren’t permitted on the rafting trip.

Plus, sandals, flip-flops, pets, alcohol, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.

The safety of the group is of utmost importance, and these restrictions help to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Guests are advised to wear appropriate footwear and leave their furry friends at home.

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Additional Information

Wetsuits are often required from May to June and can be rented on-site.

Afternoon rain showers are common in Durango, so guests should come prepared with appropriate clothing.

Itineraries may be subject to change due to water conditions, and dog owners can’t leave their pets in the car during the activity.

The Lower Animas River offers a mix of excitement and relaxation, suitable for both experienced and novice rafters. Guests can expect to navigate Class II-III rapids while taking in the stunning scenery of Durango.

With professional river guides, custom self-bailing rafts, and a delicious lunch included, this full-day adventure is an excellent way to spend time in this charming Colorado town.

Getting to the River

The rafting outfitter provides a shuttle service to transport guests from the meeting point in downtown Durango to the launch site along the Lower Animas River. The shuttle ride takes approximately 20 minutes, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Once at the river, guests will receive a safety orientation and paddle instruction before embarking on their whitewater adventure.

Launch Site Details
Distance from Durango	15 miles	24 km
Travel Time	20 minutes	–
Elevation	6,500 feet	1,980 m

Preparing for the Rafting Trip

Once guests arrive at the launch site, they’ll want to get geared up for the whitewater adventure.

Participants should dress appropriately in quick-drying synthetic layers, as the water will likely be chilly. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must to grip the raft and protect feet.

The guides will provide life jackets, helmets, and splash jackets to keep everyone safe and dry. They’ll also give a safety briefing, covering paddle techniques and what to expect on the river. It’s important to listen closely and follow the guides’ instructions.

With the proper gear and preparation, guests can focus on enjoying the exhilarating ride down the Lower Animas River.

Experiencing the Whitewater Adventure

As the raft casts off from the riverbank, guests embark on an exhilarating adventure down the Lower Animas River, navigating through a series of Class II-III rapids that offer a perfect balance of excitement and serenity. Experienced and certified guides lead the way, providing expert instruction and ensuring the safety of the group. The custom self-bailing rafts, equipped with foot cups, offer stability and control, allowing guests to fully enjoy the thrilling ride. Between the splashing waves and the serene stretches of the river, the day is filled with the perfect mix of adrenaline and relaxation, creating an unforgettable whitewater experience.

Rapid Name	Difficulty	Description
Pinball	Class III	A series of waves and holes that require precise maneuvering
Snaggletooth	Class II	A wide, powerful rapid with a tricky tongue to navigate
The Boulder Garden	Class III	A technical section with large boulders and turbulent water
La Plata	Class II-III	A long, continuous rapid with constant action
Lightening Bolt	Class III	A powerful rapid with a large wave to inspire excitement

Recap

Durango’s whitewater rafting on the Lower Animas River is an exhilarating full-day experience. Riders will navigate Class II-III rapids in custom rafts, with experienced guides and safety gear.

The trip includes shuttle transportation, a provided lunch, and stunning natural scenery.

Whether a beginner or seasoned rafter, this unforgettable adventure is suitable for all skill levels.

You can check availability for your dates here: