Durango: Animas River Family Rafting Trip & Guide

Summary

Family rafting on the animas river in durango with laughs and splashes

You’ll paddle gentle rapids on Durango’s Animas River with a certified guide who keeps things fun (and safe). Expect laughter, splashes, and a riverside snack stop—all gear included and pickup handled. It’s an easygoing adventure where families really do connect for a while.

What’s the experience like?

“Hold on!” That’s what our guide, Sam, shouted just as we hit our first real bump on the Animas River. I’d thought “family friendly” meant mostly floating, but nope—there was this moment where cold water smacked my face and my youngest squealed so loud even the ducks seemed to flinch. The river isn’t wild exactly, but it does have these little surprises that get your heart going. Sam kept tossing out stories about Durango’s old mining days between rapids—some of it probably true, some maybe not. Either way, he had us grinning.

I remember how the sun kept sneaking through the cottonwoods along the Animas River Trail. My hands were slippery from sunscreen and river water (and nerves?), but after a while you stop worrying about falling in. The kids tried to out-paddle each other until they got distracted by a heron gliding overhead. There was this snack break at Whitewater Park—nothing fancy, just granola bars and juice—but sitting there with wet feet dangling over the side of the raft, I felt oddly content. You know when you’re just… present?

The whole trip didn’t take long—maybe a few hours—but it stretched in that good way where time slows down. We saw locals jogging along the trail waving at us like we were part of their morning routine. Even my oldest (usually glued to her phone) forgot about screens for a bit. I still think about that mix of mountain air and river smell—clean but earthy—and how everyone looked a little braver by the end, even me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half day rafting on Animas River

• Park for free and check-in
• Get ready for rafting trip
• Raft on Animas River
• Pass by Animas River Trail
• Stop at whitewater park snack spot

Top questions

Is this Durango rafting trip suitable for young kids?

Yes, children as young as 4 years old can join if they weigh at least 30 pounds.

How long does the Animas River family rafting tour last?

The half-day trip lasts a few hours from check-in to finish.

Are life jackets and helmets provided on this rafting tour?

Yes, all necessary rafting equipment including life jackets and helmets are included.

Is transportation to and from the river included?

Yes, transportation to and from the river is provided as part of your booking.

Can infants or toddlers join this Durango rafting trip?

Infants can ride in a pram or stroller during parts off the raft; minimum age for rafting is 4 years old.

Is this Animas River tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, this family-friendly raft trip is wheelchair accessible.

What should we bring for the Durango family rafting day?

You don’t need much—just comfortable clothes that can get wet; all safety gear is provided.

What’s included

Your day includes free parking at check-in, all raft equipment like life jackets and helmets, round-trip transport to and from the river, plus a professionally certified whitewater guide leading your group—and yes, there’s a riverside snack stop before heading back.