- 2 Days
- 16+ Years
This is one of the most sought-after trips in the United States due to the remoteness, stunning scenery, and fantastic whitewater.
Quick Details
Great adventure and stunning scenery await you in the San Juan National Forest of Southwest Colorado! There are no roads in paradise, so we board the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway for the best part of the Animas River Gorge. Once we hit the water, the action starts with Broken Bridge rapid just a few miles downstream. Plenty of other class III and IV rapids follow along with some calmer sections and visits to historical landmarks.
This section of the Upper Animas is also known as the Needleton and is suitable for those with at least a moderate fitness level. Some experience is recommended. During high water season in May and early June, you should expect some big wild rapids and colder temperatures. In late June and July/August the rapids are easier and temperatures are generally warmer.
No other river in Colorado can match the scenery and wild character that is found on the Upper Animas.
The Animas River is a free-flowing river that depends on snowpack. The Upper Animas starts running in May and is usually good through July. During lower August flows, we cannot run all the way from Silverton but will start trips in Needleton.
In the early season, the Upper Animas can be chilly, and you could fall into the river and take a swim. We provide a wetsuit with splash top free of charge or a full drysuit (additional $30) for your safety and comfort. We provide dry storage, a proper-fitting personal flotation device (life jacket), and a helmet, booties, and gloves. We also provide a hearty riverside lunch. This is all included in the price!
This is one of the most sought-after trips in the United States due to the remoteness, stunning scenery, and fantastic whitewater.
Paddling through Rockwood Gorge is one of the most incredible outdoor experiences. During peak runoff, this section of the river is unnavigable for commercial rafts.
Join us on a 9.5-mile raft trip down the San Miguel River in Telluride, CO. In the spring and early summer this snow-melt-fed river plunges from the high peaks of the San Juan Mountains. Open May-June.