Durango Whitewater Rafting Tours
Experience the Thrill of Rafting the Animas River with 3 Popular Options!
Rafting in Durango is one of the top-rated adventures for both locals and visitors alike. Once you’re charging downstream, it’s easy to see why! The Lower Animas River delivers an exciting mix of Class I-III rapids, including well-known rapids like Smelter, Clock Tower, Santa Rita, and Sawmill, balanced with calmer stretches to catch your breath and take in the stunning scenery.
Since the Lower Animas is a free-flowing river, water levels change throughout the season. Spring brings high flows and big rapids, while later in the summer, the river transforms into a more technical run, requiring precise maneuvers around exposed rocks, adding a new level of challenge. No matter the flow, this trip delivers excitement at every turn!
What to Wear
What We Provide
Trips for You
Durango 3/4 Day Raft Trip with Riverside Lunch
🌟 This trip sells out fast—book your adventure today! 🌟
Durango’s Ultimate Rafting Adventure
Looking for the best rafting experience in Durango? This 5.5-hour adventure is our most popular trip, featuring 4+ hours on the water, exciting rapids, and a midway riverside lunch to refuel for more adventure! Surrounded by Durango’s breathtaking mountain scenery, this trip balances adrenaline-pumping whitewater with peaceful float sections—perfect for those who want the full rafting experience!
Experience the Rapids
Tackle Class I-III rapids, including:
🌊 Smelter – The legendary start to the action
🌊 Santa Rita – A thrilling challenge
🌊 Sawmill – A true test of teamwork
🌊 Pinball – Navigate the twists and turns
Midway Riverside Lunch – Fuel Up for More Fun!
Take a break at our scenic riverside stop to relax and enjoy a satisfying meal.
Lunch Includes:
🥪 Hearty sandwich – A filling mid-trip meal
🥔 Crispy chips – The perfect river snack
💧 Cold water – Stay refreshed
🍎 Fresh fruit – A natural energy boost
🍪 Sweet dessert – A treat for the journey
🚨 Please Note: We are unable to accommodate dietary restrictions. Feel free to bring your meal, we have space in our cooler.
Trip Details
✔ Duration: ~5.5 hours total (4+ hours on the water)
✔ Rapids: Class I-III – A mix of excitement and relaxation
✔ Location: Animas River, Durango, Colorado
✔ Includes: All rafting gear, paddle instruction, and expert guides
Upgrade to VIP:
$39 Adventure Package for up to 3 guests ($65 Value) OR
$59 Family VIP Adventure Package for up to 6 guests ($100+ Value)
- 6-8 action photos of your boat (a $39 value!)
- Splash jacket rentals for the selected number of people in your party
- River shoe rentals for the selected number of people in your party
- Cold bottled water upon check-in
- 20% off retail items in the store
🌟 Don’t miss out, reserve your adventure before it’s gone! 🌟
Durango Half-Day Raft Trip
More Time, More River!
For adventurers who want more time on the river, the Half-Day Adventure is the perfect choice, offering twice the time on the water compared to the Splash & Dash! This trip covers the same exciting rapids but uses different put-ins and take-outs, allowing for extended rafting time and a deeper dive into Durango’s whitewater scene.
✔ Duration: ~ 3 hours on the water (May & June trips may be shorter due to higher flows)
✔ Rapids: Class I-III – A thrilling yet balanced mix of rapids and scenic floats
✔ Location: Animas River, Durango, Colorado
✔ Includes: All rafting gear, paddle instruction, and expert guides
Durango “Splash & Dash” Raft Trip
Quick, Fun & Adventurous!
The “Splash & Dash” is perfect for those looking to pack adventure into a short timeframe. Pair it with our Jeep Tour package for the ultimate Durango experience!
With about 1 hour and 15 minutes on the water, you’ll navigate thrilling whitewater, soak in breathtaking views, and experience Durango’s adventurous spirit. No experience is necessary; our expert guides handle navigation and paddle commands while sharing fascinating stories about the area’s history and traditions.
✔ Duration: ~About 1 hour and 15 minutes on the water (May & June trips may be shorter due to higher flows)
✔ Rapids: Class I-III – Exciting yet manageable
✔ Location: Animas River, Durango, Colorado
✔ Includes: Raft, paddle, safety gear, and expert guide
Additional Information
- Please arrive at least 30 minutes early (trips leave promptly at their start times)
- Rafting tours meet in our backyard area with picnic tables, lockers, and changing rooms. We have both indoor and outdoor restrooms for your convenience.
- Our driver and guides will pick you and your group up at our location at 360 South Camino Del Rio Suite #200, and take you to our put-in location. There we will go over safety, fit you with a PFD, show you some paddling skills, and prepare you for an awesome rafting trip! Following your adventure, we will return you and your group to where you began your adventure.
- A waiver of liability/emergency contact form will need to be completed either online prior to departure or a hard copy completed prior to departure at the pick-up location
- Restrooms & changing areas on-site with FREE PARKING!
- Our rafts have NO storage; please leave any large items in your hotel room or car. Small items (such as wallets, keys, and phones) can be placed in a complimentary locker.
- Gratuity for our guides and drivers are not included in the price. If you enjoy your trip, feel free to tip!
- Should you require further assistance, don’t hesitate to call and chat with one of our reservation specialists at 970-236-7256.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel at least 72 hours before departure for a full refund. No refunds within the 72-hour window.
Trip Insurance Available
For 8% of your booking total, cancel up to 12 hours before launch for an 80% refund.
Meeting Point
360 South Camino Del Rio Suite #200, Durango
Weather Policy
We run rain or shine.
Group Discounts
Groups of 10 or more get 10% off. Call us for group rates and private tours.
Since 1983
40+ years of adventures
Trips for You
🌟 This trip sells out fast—book your adventure today! 🌟
Durango’s Ultimate Rafting Adventure
Looking for the best rafting experience in Durango? This 5.5-hour adventure is our most popular trip, featuring 4+ hours on the water, exciting rapids, and a midway riverside lunch to refuel for more adventure! Surrounded by Durango’s breathtaking mountain scenery, this trip balances adrenaline-pumping whitewater with peaceful float sections—perfect for those who want the full rafting experience!
Experience the Rapids
Tackle Class I-III rapids, including:
🌊 Smelter – The legendary start to the action
🌊 Santa Rita – A thrilling challenge
🌊 Sawmill – A true test of teamwork
🌊 Pinball – Navigate the twists and turns
Midway Riverside Lunch – Fuel Up for More Fun!
Take a break at our scenic riverside stop to relax and enjoy a satisfying meal.
Lunch Includes:
🥪 Hearty sandwich – A filling mid-trip meal
🥔 Crispy chips – The perfect river snack
💧 Cold water – Stay refreshed
🍎 Fresh fruit – A natural energy boost
🍪 Sweet dessert – A treat for the journey
🚨 Please Note: We are unable to accommodate dietary restrictions. Feel free to bring your meal, we have space in our cooler.
Trip Details
✔ Duration: ~5.5 hours total (4+ hours on the water)
✔ Rapids: Class I-III – A mix of excitement and relaxation
✔ Location: Animas River, Durango, Colorado
✔ Includes: All rafting gear, paddle instruction, and expert guides
Upgrade to VIP:
$39 Adventure Package for up to 3 guests ($65 Value) OR
$59 Family VIP Adventure Package for up to 6 guests ($100+ Value)
- 6-8 action photos of your boat (a $39 value!)
- Splash jacket rentals for the selected number of people in your party
- River shoe rentals for the selected number of people in your party
- Cold bottled water upon check-in
- 20% off retail items in the store
🌟 Don’t miss out, reserve your adventure before it’s gone! 🌟
More Time, More River!
For adventurers who want more time on the river, the Half-Day Adventure is the perfect choice, offering twice the time on the water compared to the Splash & Dash! This trip covers the same exciting rapids but uses different put-ins and take-outs, allowing for extended rafting time and a deeper dive into Durango’s whitewater scene.
✔ Duration: ~ 3 hours on the water (May & June trips may be shorter due to higher flows)
✔ Rapids: Class I-III – A thrilling yet balanced mix of rapids and scenic floats
✔ Location: Animas River, Durango, Colorado
✔ Includes: All rafting gear, paddle instruction, and expert guides
Quick, Fun & Adventurous!
The “Splash & Dash” is perfect for those looking to pack adventure into a short timeframe. Pair it with our Jeep Tour package for the ultimate Durango experience!
With about 1 hour and 15 minutes on the water, you’ll navigate thrilling whitewater, soak in breathtaking views, and experience Durango’s adventurous spirit. No experience is necessary; our expert guides handle navigation and paddle commands while sharing fascinating stories about the area’s history and traditions.
✔ Duration: ~About 1 hour and 15 minutes on the water (May & June trips may be shorter due to higher flows)
✔ Rapids: Class I-III – Exciting yet manageable
✔ Location: Animas River, Durango, Colorado
✔ Includes: Raft, paddle, safety gear, and expert guide
Why Choose Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours?
Join us for an authentic, high-quality adventure on the Animas River!
Which Trip is Right for You?
No matter which adventure you choose, Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours guarantees an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick thrill, a half-day escape, or a full-day adventure with lunch, we have the perfect trip for you.
🚨 Spots are limited—book now and make memories on the Animas River! 🚀
Looking to create the perfect whitewater rafting experience during your stay in Durango? Contact us directly to build your own custom adventure. Our guides are happy to help you create an unforgettable itinerary.
Why Choose Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours?
What To Expect
What to Wear
Check-In Information
Quick Details
What We Provide
We Have Rentals!
What to Expect
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start time to check-in
Transportation to and from the Animas River (about 15 minutes to and from the river)
Riverside Safety orientation (about 15 minutes)
Check-in and check-out (15 minutes)
We Have Rentals!
River shoes ($5)
Splash jackets ($5) – Just like a rain jacket
Wetsuits ($15) – sizes are Small to XXXL