The Animas River in Southwest Colorado near Durango offers a variety of white water rafting for all ages and abilities. Try the Lower Animas for families and first-timers or the Upper Animas for some of the most exciting and scenic Colorado white water rafting you can find.
Location: Durango, CO
Drive time from Denver: 7 hours
Best time to raft: May – August (the rapids will be biggest earlier in the season)
Ages: Either 4 or 16 years of age depending on the section of river
Age Minimum: 4 years old
Rapids: Class III
Best Time to Go: May – August
Location: Durango, CO
Price: Starts at $57/person
Age Minimum: 4 years old
Rapids: Class III
Best Time to Go: May – August
Location: Durango, CO
Price: Starts at $89/person
Age Minimum: 4 years old
Rapids: Class V
Best Time to Go: May – August
Location: Durango, CO
Price: Starts at $285/person
Water levels will vary throughout the rafting season with the highest flow during the spring. When the river begins to drop it will actually become more technical to raft with more rocks to maneuver around. All levels can be a blast in each of their own ways. Any time between May and August is a great time to check out the river.
The drive from Denver to this area isn't quite ideal. All in all its a 7 hour drive south west from there. Durango is a beautiful place in itself and would more likely be your main hub on this trip.
All rafters on the Lower Animas trips must be of at least 4 years of age and any rafters taking a trip on the Upper Animas must be at least 16 years of age.
ANIMAS RIVER RAFTING
The Animas River has everything from easy-going family trips to bucking rapids on advanced trips! Animas River rafting trips check in in Durango, the hub of southwest adventure in Colorado.
TRIPS ON THE ANIMAS
VISIT DURANGO
The Southwest part of Colorado is a must-do for many travelers. From the ruins of Mesa Verde to the breathtaking drives through the San Juan Mountains, this corner of the state is a gem. Durango is home to many historical sites, including the famous Durango to Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, world class whitewater on the Animas River, and the San Juan National Forest.
Durango is home to a full-service regional airport and is easily accessible by car. Several major U.S. and state highways approach the city from every direction, and make up the scenic San Juan Skyway. Durango’s rich Colorado history and endless activities make this the ideal Colorado vacation town!
MORE OPTIONS NEAR DURANGO
Also consider a Dolores River rafting trip, an unbelievable scenic canyon overnight trip available in 3-Day, 6-Day or 10-Day lengths.
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