Animas River Rafting in Durango: Class I-III Rapids

Glide through Durango’s wild waters with expert guides and a riverside feast included

Raft the Animas River in Durango on a quarter-day trip combining multiple runs through the Whitewater Park with inflatable kayaks when water levels allow. The day includes a live guide, all equipment, transportation to and from the river, and your choice of lunch; children from age 4 are welcome, and the Class I, II and III rapids suit both experienced rafters and first-timers.

The Experience

The Animas River runs through Durango with Class I, II and III rapids that give you enough action without overwhelming anyone new to whitewater. The day combines multiple laps through the Whitewater Park — the signature stretch locals play on — with inflatable kayaks when the water sits at medium to low flows, so you get variety in a single outing. A live guide handles the technical calls and safety; you operate the paddle and the boat.

Transportation to and from the river is included, so you show up and the logistics are settled. The day runs about six hours. Snacks keep you fueled between runs, and you choose your lunch from Mexi, BBQ or Burgers — the meal is part of the package. All rafting and kayaking equipment comes with you; you bring a change of clothes and a towel.

Children from age 4 can join. The rapids are consistent enough that experienced rafters find real challenge, but the mix of Class I and II sections means younger paddlers and people new to whitewater won't hit anything that demands prior skill. Free parking is included at the meeting point.

What’s included

• Live guide in English.
• transportation to and from the river.
• free parking.
• all rafting and kayaking equipment.
• snacks.
• your choice of Mexi, BBQ or Burgers lunch.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditions

Operated by Mountain Waters Rafting & Adventure Company LLC

Is this one for you?You paddle your own kayak in a group while a guide handles safety and route-finding, so you get hands-on river control without navigating whitewater yourself.

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Top questions

What are the Class I, II and III rapids on the Animas River like for someone who has never rafted before?

The Animas River rapids in Durango are designed to work for both experienced and novice paddlers. Class I and II sections give first-timers real action without overwhelming them, while Class III rapids offer challenge for people who have rafted before. The mix inside one day means you get variety and the guide adjusts the pace to the group.

Does the day include time in the Whitewater Park, and what happens there?

Yes — the Whitewater Park is the centerpiece of the day, and you run multiple laps through it. This is the stretch locals play on, and it's where the Class I, II and III rapids are concentrated. The guide leads you through the same section more than once so you can build confidence and try different lines.

When can I use the inflatable kayaks instead of the raft?

Inflatable kayaks are available when the Animas River water levels are at medium to low flows. The guide will tell you on the day whether conditions allow kayaking, and you can switch between the raft and kayak during the trip if both are running.

What meals are included, and do I need to choose one in advance?

Your choice of Mexi, BBQ or Burgers is included in the day, along with snacks. You can let the operator know your preference when you book, or decide on the day if you prefer.

Is transportation from my hotel included, or do I meet at the river?

Transportation to and from the river is included in the day. Free parking is available at the meeting point. If you need pickup from your hotel, confirm that detail when you book.

Can my 4-year-old join, and what should I know about rafting with young children?

Children from age 4 are welcome on the Animas River. The Class I and II rapids are manageable for young paddlers, and the guide will adjust the pace to keep the day safe and fun for the group. Bring a change of clothes and a towel for your child, as they will get wet.