Telluride’s San Miguel River offers an exhilarating full-day rafting adventure that’s sure to get your heart pounding. Over seven hours, you’ll navigate continuous Class II and III rapids, including the thrilling Three Sisters and Saw Pit. Expert guides will lead the way, ensuring your safety as you take in the stunning red rock walls and lush pine forests surrounding you. But the true highlight? The chance to experience the sheer power and beauty of this remarkable river for yourself. Are you ready to take the plunge?
Good To Know
- Exhilarating full-day rafting adventure on the San Miguel River near Telluride, featuring continuous Class III rapids and stunning red rock landscapes.
- Comprehensive safety measures with experienced guides, proper gear, and communication devices to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
- Scenic riverbank lunch break with a deli-style spread to refuel during the 7-hour tour.
- Minimum age of 10 years old and moderate physical fitness required for participation.
- High recommendation from previous customers, with a 5.0 rating from 49 reviews.
Overview of the Adventure
The Telluride rafting adventure is a thrilling full-day experience on the San Miguel River near Telluride, Colorado.
It’s a 7-hour tour that takes adventurers through Class II and III rapids, offering splashes and fun. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of red rock walls and pine trees.
The trip is highly recommended, with a 5.0 rating from 49 reviewers. The experienced guides, who exceed the state’s requirements, will provide a safety briefing and necessary gear like helmets, life jackets, and wetsuits.
After a shuttle ride to the river, you’ll paddle through the rapids and enjoy a deli-style lunch on the riverbank before heading back.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Telluride.
Paddling through the continuous Class III rapids, adventurers will feel the rush of the water as they navigate the winding San Miguel River.
They’ll tackle the thrilling Three Sisters and Saw Pit rapids, where the river churns and splashes. With their skilled trip leaders guiding the way, they’ll take in the stunning views of red rock walls and towering pine trees lining the riverbanks.
During a break, they’ll enjoy a deli-style lunch on the riverbank, refueling for the rest of the adventure.
Throughout the journey, safety is the top priority, with communication devices and proper gear ensuring a secure and exhilarating experience.
Scenic Views and Landscapes
Flanking the San Miguel River are towering, striking red rock walls that draw the eye upward. Along the riverbank, lush pine trees sway gently in the breeze, creating a serene natural backdrop for the rafting adventure.
As the river winds its way through the dramatic landscape, rafters are treated to a breathtaking panorama of rugged Colorado wilderness. The contrast of the bright blue water against the earthy red cliffs and verdant foliage makes for an unforgettable visual experience.
These scenic views are a highlight of the journey, allowing participants to fully enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.
Lunch on the Riverbank
After taking in the stunning vistas along the river, rafters can look forward to a well-deserved lunch break on the riverbank.
There, they’ll find a delicious deli-style spread waiting for them. The meal includes:
- Fresh sandwiches with a variety of fillings
- Crisp, colorful salads
- Refreshing fruit slices
- Hearty trail mix
- Chilled bottled water
This chance to refuel and recharge is the perfect midpoint to the adventure.
With full bellies, rafters will be energized and ready to tackle the remaining rapids with enthusiasm.
Expert Trip Leaders and Safety
Riders can count on the expertise of the trip leaders, who boast an impressive 2,000 miles of collective river experience – far exceeding the state’s minimum requirement of 750 miles. This wealth of knowledge ensures participants’ safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure.
Before the rafting begins, the team conducts a thorough safety briefing, covering proper technique and protocols. Plus, the guides utilize spot communication devices to maintain contact in remote sections, providing an extra layer of security.
With top-notch gear, including helmets and Coast Guard-approved life jackets, riders can paddle with confidence, knowing they’re in capable hands.
Gear and Equipment Provided
The full suite of essential rafting gear is provided to participants, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the adventure. This includes:
- Helmets to protect against potential impacts
- Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices for buoyancy
- Splash jackets to keep paddlers dry
- Wetsuits and neoprene boots to insulate against the chilly river water
- All necessary rental equipment, available for just $15 if needed.
Before launching, participants receive a comprehensive safety briefing, and guides maintain communication in remote sections for added peace of mind.
With top-notch gear and experienced leadership, guests can focus on navigating the river’s thrilling Class II and III rapids.
Meeting Point and Itinerary
Participants meet at the Caddis Flats Campgrounds in Placerville, Colorado 81430 for the 10:00 am start time.
From there, they’ll board a shuttle that takes them to the river’s edge, where the adventure begins.
The rafting trip features continuous Class II rapids and challenging Class III rapids like the Three Sisters and Saw Pit.
Along the way, travelers will enjoy a deli-style lunch on the riverbank.
In the late afternoon, the shuttle returns everyone to the starting point, concluding this full-day rafting experience on the San Miguel River.
Important Considerations
Physical fitness and age limitations are important considerations for this rafting adventure. While the river features only Class II and III rapids, a moderate level of physical fitness is required as you will be expected to paddle consistently throughout the trip.
The minimum age is 10 years old, making this activity unsuitable for younger children. Plus, the following individuals may want to reconsider booking this tour:
- Travelers with back problems
- Pregnant individuals
- Those who aren’t comfortable in or around water
- Individuals requiring wheelchair accessibility
- Groups larger than 28 travelers
Things To Known
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks. The provider allows participants to bring their own food and beverages, so you can pack extra provisions for the day’s adventure.
Is Photography Equipment Allowed on the Rafts?
Yes, travelers can bring their own cameras and photography equipment on the rafts. The provider encourages capturing the scenic views and thrilling rapids. However, travelers should secure their gear and avoid anything that could fall overboard.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?
The minimum age for the rafting adventure is 10 years old. Younger children may not be allowed to participate due to safety concerns and the physical requirements of the activity.
Can I Store My Personal Belongings Securely?
The provider offers secure storage for personal belongings during the rafting trip. Participants can leave valuables locked in their vehicles or with the trip leaders for safekeeping while out on the river.
Is It Possible to Request a Private Rafting Trip?
The provider offers private rafting trips for groups. Travelers can request a private trip to enjoy the experience with just their party. Pricing and availability may vary, so it’s best to inquire directly with the provider.
Sum Up
Telluride rafting on the San Miguel River is an exhilarating full-day adventure that promises continuous Class II and III rapids, breathtaking scenery, and a delicious deli-style lunch. With the guidance of expert trip leaders and top-notch safety measures, you’ll navigate the river’s thrilling rapids, including the iconic Three Sisters and Saw Pit, while surrounded by towering red rock walls and lush pine trees. This unforgettable journey is not to be missed.