Top Durango Kayaking Tours

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

See the towering mountains and vibrant woods of La Plata County with the kind of thrills and adventure that you just can’t experience staying on the ground. Take to the air on a wild zipline course that runs across the treetops of the La Plata woods. Choose how you finish your tour, as well – get beautiful photos from the Full Blast Adventure Center’s rooftop patio, or strap in for an exhilarating 40-foot freefall from the center’s giant tower.

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.

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.

See the UNESCO World Heritage–listed sites of Mesa Verde National Park on a tour of the park's Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. A guide provides insight into the history, architecture, and spiritual features of these ancient homes and how they were lived in hundreds of years ago. Please note, this tour starts inside the park; you must already be in the park after paying your own national park entrance fee.

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.

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.