Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – Lower Animas River

Experience the Thrill of Durango’s Lower Animas River with Expert Guides and a Delicious Lunch

The Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch offers an engaging way to explore the Lower Animas River in Durango, Colorado. Priced at $162 per person and lasting about 6 hours, this tour combines adventure and relaxation in a scenic setting. With Class II-III rapids, custom self-bailing rafts, and highly trained guides, it’s designed to be accessible for all experience levels.

The trip begins at the Durango Office, where participants receive all necessary gear, including helmets, life jackets, and splash jackets. After a safety briefing, a shuttle takes everyone to the river, where the adventure unfolds. Expect about 4 hours of on-water fun punctuated by a delicious riverside lunch halfway through. Whether you’re seeking excitement or scenic views, this tour offers a balanced mix that’s perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers in Durango.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day adventure with approximately 4 hours of rafting on the Lower Animas River
• Expert, Class III certified guides ensure safety and share local stories
• Custom self-bailing rafts with foot cups for comfortable paddling
• Class II rapids are fun and friendly, while Class III rapids are more lively and soaking
• All experience levels welcome, with safety gear and paddle instruction included
• Delicious deli-style lunch served during the trip, with options for chilly days (wetsuit rentals available for $15)

Starting Point and Gear Fitting at the Durango Office

The tour kicks off at the Durango Office, where participants meet guides and get outfitted for the day. The fitting includes helmets, Coastguard-approved life jackets, and splash jackets if needed, especially when water or weather is chilly. Guests are advised to bring water shoes, a reusable water bottle, and quick-dry clothing for comfort. The check-in process ensures everyone is prepared for the river, making safety a top priority.

Transport and Safety Briefing Before Hitting the Water

After gear fitting, the group is shuttled to the Lower Animas River, starting from the designated launch point. The guides then provide a comprehensive safety orientation and paddle instructions. With experienced guides leading the way, the focus is on safety, fun, and learning. The guides are noted for their entertaining storytelling and area insights, enriching the experience beyond just the rapids.

Navigating the Class II and III Rapids of the Lower Animas River

The Lower Animas River offers a mix of Class II rapids, described as “fun and friendly,” and Class III rapids, known as “wet and wild.” The Class II sections often result in splashes over the bow, while the Class III rapids are more intense, usually soaking everyone in the boat. The size of the rapids can vary depending on the water level, which is higher in spring and lower in late summer, affecting the difficulty and technicality of the ride.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Custom Self-Bailing Rafts and Paddle Experience

The self-bailing rafts used on this trip are a key feature, with foot cups helping paddlers stay in position during rapid crossings. Guests are free to paddle along with guides or sit back and enjoy the scenery. The rafts are designed to keep everyone afloat and comfortable, even when splashes are frequent, making it suitable for those new to whitewater as well as seasoned paddlers.

Midway Stop with a Hearty Riverside Lunch

Around halfway through the 4 hours of on-water time, the trip pauses at a scenic riverside location for a delicious deli-style lunch. This break provides a chance to relax, refuel, and take in the natural beauty of Durango’s river corridor. The lunch is a highlight for many, offering a satisfying pause before continuing the adventure downstream.

The End of the Trip and Return to Durango

After navigating the final rapids, the guided trip concludes at the take-out point. The rafts are loaded onto the shuttle, which then returns everyone to the Durango Office. The entire experience is well-paced, with plenty of opportunities to capture photos and enjoy the views along the route.

Practical Information and Additional Options

Participants should bring water shoes (sandals or flip-flops are not allowed), a reusable water bottle, and quick-dry clothing. For colder days, wetsuit rentals are available for $15. The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health issues like back or heart problems. It’s recommended for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

The tour offers a full refund up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility for travel plans. The group size tends to be manageable, ensuring personalized attention from guides.

The Guides and Their Role in the Experience

The guides are highly trained and in-house at Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours. Their enthusiasm and storytelling add depth to the trip, turning a fun water adventure into a memorable journey. The guide named Noah receives praise for being amazing and fun, reflecting the quality of leadership that makes the tour enjoyable and safe.

Who Will Enjoy This Rafting Trip Most?

This Durango rafting trip appeals to a broad audience, particularly those seeking a balanced mix of excitement and relaxation. The Class II and III rapids provide plenty of splashes and thrills without being overwhelming, making it ideal for families or first-time rafters. The scenic views and informative guides also attract travelers interested in the local area’s natural beauty and history.

The Sum Up: A Great Day on the Water in Durango

The Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip offers a well-rounded experience for anyone wanting to explore the Lower Animas River with the safety of expert guides and the comfort of custom rafts. The lunch stop adds a nice touch of relaxation, while the variety of rapids keeps the journey lively and fun.

While water levels can change seasonally, the tour is accessible for most ages and experience levels with the right gear and guidance. The $162 price provides a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and local storytelling, making it a valuable choice for visitors to Durango wanting a memorable river outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this rafting trip suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trip is designed to be accessible for all experience levels, including those new to rafting. The guides provide paddle instruction and safety orientation to ensure everyone is comfortable.

What should I bring for the trip?
Participants should bring water shoes, a reusable water bottle, and quick-dry clothing. Wetsuit rentals are available for $15 if the weather is chilly.

Can children join this rafting adventure?
Children under 4 years are not allowed, and safety considerations exclude pregnant women and those with certain health conditions like back or heart problems.

What class of rapids will I encounter?
Expect to navigate Class II rapids that are fun and friendly, along with a few Class III rapids that are wet and wild. The size of rapids varies with water levels.

What gear is included in the tour?
All guests receive helmets, Coastguard-approved life jackets, splash jackets, and paddles. Wetsuit rentals are available separately.

How long is the trip on the river?
The on-water portion lasts about 4 hours, with the entire experience including gear fitting, transportation, and lunch taking around 6 hours.

Is there a lunch included?
Yes, a delicious deli-style lunch is served at the midway stop, offering a break and meal amidst the scenic river views.

What is the total cost of the tour?
The tour costs $162 per person, with wetsuit rentals available for an additional $15.

Is the trip weather-dependent?
Yes, water conditions and water levels vary seasonally, influencing rapids’ difficulty and safety measures. The tour can adapt, including walking around certain rapids if necessary.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby