Top Durango On the Water

Live like a local and enjoy the delights of the Animas River, right in the heart of Durango. Rafting the Class I, II and III rapids down the river consistently ranks as a highlight for tourists. Don't miss out on this memorable experience with fun guides to take you through a quarter day rafting trip as well as multiple laps through the Whitewater Park on inflatable kayaks.

Get your whole family out on the rapids with this whitewater rafting trip down the Animas River in Durango. Spend two hours in the company of an adventure guide, paddling over Class I, II, and III rapids, suitable for novices and experts alike (including children). Shoot down the river and take in the scenery, coming away with a sense of accomplishment and a better understanding of Colorado's wilderness.

Experience the thrill of inflatable kayaking on Durango’s Lower Animas River! This 1/4 day trip lasts 2 hours and 25 minutes round trip, with 1 hour on the water. Navigate exciting Class II rapids and one exhilarating Class III rapid, including “Smelter,” “Santa Rita,” and “Sawmill,” with calmer stretches for scenery and relaxation. Lower water flows in late summer make the rapids even more exciting. No experience is needed—our expert guides provide gear, instruction, and local insights.

Not all rafting trips have to take up your entire day—this tour from Durango gets you on the water and back out with time to enjoy another adventure before the sun goes down. You'll spend one hour on the Animas River navigating the Class II and Class III rapids with a rafting guide.

Float down the Lower Animas River on this family-friendly rafting trip in Durango. As you glide over the rapids with a guide, you can enjoy views of Durango from the water and take in the natural beauty south of town. Stop on the riverside for a snack, and listen to stories about the history and traditions of the region. This is a mild rafting option for ages 4 years and up. Select a morning or afternoon departure time when booking.

Experience the thrill of inflatable kayaking on Durango’s Lower Animas River! This half day trip lasts 3 hours and 45 minutes round trip, with 2 hours and 15 minutes on the water. Navigate exciting Class II rapids and one exhilarating Class III rapid, including “Smelter,” “Santa Rita,” and “Sawmill,” with calmer stretches for scenery and relaxation. Lower water flows in late summer make the rapids even more exciting. No experience is needed— the expert guides will provide gear, instruction, and local insights.

Enjoy a more active way to immerse yourself in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain scenery—and benefit from a personalized experience—on this small-group, half-day kayaking tour near Durango. Meet at a central location and then transfer to the Animas River; with all necessary gear included, enjoy a hassle-free experience. Once aboard your inflatable kayak, and with your guide in the lead, set off to tackle class III rapids.

Navigate the Animas River in your personal inflatable kayak on a 2-hour tour from Durango. There’s no need to smuggle your personal paddle past TSA, as all gear, including a helmet and life vest, is provided for you. After a safety briefing and rundown of the route, it’s time to hit the water. Follow your experienced guide along class III whitewater rapids as you adventure through world famous Colorado wildlife.

Get on the wild and wonderful Animas River with this 2.5-hour whitewater rafting tour. With your guide at the helm, take to the swirls, churns, and rapids, zooming away from Durango—an epic journey fit for both beginner and experienced paddlers. The panoramic canyon scenery along the Animas adds a sense of relaxation to the thrills!

On this 4.5-hour rafting tour, you’re definitely going to get splashed. After meeting up with your guide, you’ll start with a leisurely float through Durango, eventually taking to the churning rapids of the Animas River beyond the city. Break for snacks—and taking in the views—before getting back on the water and wrapping up the half-day adventure.

Choose Mild to Wild for your Lower Animas River Full Day rafting trip and experience our unique commitment to excellence. Our highly trained professional guides ensure your enjoyment and fun. Benefit from a low guide-to-guest ratio for a personalized experience. We streamline your adventure with free parking, changing rooms, and a storefront for essentials. Complimentary splash jackets and helmets are standard. Enjoy a riverside locally made deli-style lunch midway. Whether paddling or relaxing, your day is crafted for lasting memories. Enhance your trip with a kayak instructor or explore packages including Jeep tours. Mild to Wild prioritizes your satisfaction and an unforgettable journey.

Experience the full beauty of the Lower Animas with this 4.5-hour trip door to door, about 2.5 hours on the water, and an unforgettable adventure with expert local guides in Durango. Suited for the whole family, you will also have the option to purchase a photo package to preserve your memories when the trip is done. See historical Old West landmarks and hear stories about the early days of Durango. Our guides are more than just river guides – they are your guide to the history and lore of the region. All our Durango rafting trips include the famous whitewater park and smelter rapids.

Experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of a rafting adventure on this professionally guided, 3-hour excursion. Ride along the clear, crisp waters of the Animas River in Durango. Crash through the Class I, II and III rapids, which are less technical but no less exciting for an introductory river experience. It’s a perfect balance for kids and adults wanting to share a fun day on the river. All boating equipment, plus transportation.

Experience the thrill of inflatable kayaking on Durango’s Lower Animas River! This full day trip lasts 5 hours and 45 minutes round trip, with 4 hours and 15 minutes on the water. Navigate exciting Class II rapids and one exhilarating Class III rapid, including “Smelter,” “Santa Rita,” and “Sawmill,” with calmer stretches for scenery and relaxation. Lower water flows in late summer make the rapids even more exciting. No experience is needed—our expert guides provide gear, instruction, and local insights. Lunch is included, making this the perfect mix of adventure and fun.

Family-friendly and great for all experience levels! Enjoy year-round San Juan fishing: scenic floats, expert guidance, gear & and a delicious riverside lunch!

Experience Durango’s premier rafting adventure! This 5.5-hour trip gives you about 4 hours on the Animas River, blending the excitement of Class II–III rapids with peaceful floats through stunning mountain scenery. Along the way, your expert local guides share stories about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife, making the journey as enriching as it is exhilarating. Midway, relax and recharge with a riverside lunch before tackling more waves downstream. Perfect for families, first-timers, and thrill-seekers alike, this trip balances action with relaxation for the ultimate Durango rafting experience.

Float the Animas River in Durango on this full-day tour, perfect for families. With a guide leading, even first-timers and small children will enjoy the river rafting experience. After a lunch break (own expense), head for the zipline, where you'll zoom through the Ponderosa pines for epic views of the Colorado mountains all around you.