The Lower Animas mixes splashy Class II and III whitewater with calm scenic floating along riverbanks shaped by Entrada and Dakota sandstones, Mancos shale, and cottonwood grooves. Along the way, rafters pass historic sites including the former coal power plant, Colorado’s first fish hatchery, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and Smelter Mountain.

1/2 Day Rafting Trip

This half day animas river rafting trip mixes waves, sunshine, and relaxed floating through the heart of Durango. You’ll splash through fun rapids like Train Bridge and Smelter, drift past riverfront parks and historic neighborhoods, and enjoy the easygoing spirit that makes the Animas River a local treasure. The ½ day rafting trip lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes on the river and 4 hours from meet time to return.

3/4 Day Rafting Trip

The ¾ Day trip gives you the most complete Animas River experience lasting 4 hours on the river and 5 hours 45 minutes round trip. Enjoy a longer stretch of the animas river with more time to play and a delicious riverside lunch prepared by our favorite local bakery. 

1/4 Day Rafting Trip

The ¼ day trip is the fastest way to experience the Animas River. Lasting 1 hour on the river and 2 hours from meet time to return, it’s good for at least one epic class III splash in smelter rapid leaving plenty of day time for additional activities.

Inflatable Kayaking Trips

For guests wishing to control their own adventure, inflatable kayaks offer a thrilling twist. You paddle your own craft and control your own destiny. Navigate eddies, punch through waves, and experience the Animas from a whole new perspective. Kayak trips depart with the ¼, ½, and ¾ day rafting trips allowing your group to mix and match their adventure experience while staying together.

For those looking for some more excitement and a challenge on one of the toughest commercially run rivers in Colorado check out the Upper Animas River.

The Story of the Animas River

Meaning “River of Souls,” the Animas has long been central to the identity of Southwest Colorado. Its banks hold remnants of ancient Puebloan irrigation systems, the tracks of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and the stories of miners, ranchers, and modern explorers.

When tourism replaced Durango’s historic smelting industry in the 1980s, the Animas River quickly became a symbol of recreation, adventure, and outdoor connection. Mild to Wild is proud to be part of that story. Founded in 1994 with just six rafts and a small kiosk on Main Avenue, we have grown alongside the community and now offer the region’s most complete lineup of Animas River rafting trips. The Lower Animas remains Durango’s most cherished stretch, where families gather, locals cool off on summer afternoons, and visitors discover the magic of Colorado’s river culture.

Seasonality & River Conditions 

Late Spring/Early Summer (May-June)

Late spring and early summer runoff brings higher flows, colder water, and lively Class II–III rapids. Smelter Rapid is at its biggest during late May/early June, and the river typically ranges between 1,000-3,000+ CFS depending on snowpack. Water temperatures range from 40-50 degrees. This is the most exciting time of year on the Animas. Peak flows typically occur in this window in the first and second week of June.

Summer (June-August)

Warm weather, warm water, and consistent flows make summer the most popular part of the rafting season. Water temperatures rise between 50°F and 70°F, flows stabilize between 300-1,200 CFS.

Fall (September)

After Labor Day weekend traffic on the river decreases significantly, as families end their summer vacation and kids go back to school. However, the river continues to meander with air temperature highs in the 70s and low 80s. An entirely rain and ground water fed river keeps water temperatures warm, between 60°F and 70°F and flows between 300-600 CFS providing an enjoyable river floating experience with a few small rapids.

To view current and historical water flow and temperature data on the Animas River, please visit the USGS website.

What to Wear & Bring

• Quick dry clothing – Polyester and fleece materials are the warmest and dry fastest.
• Secure footwear – Shoes must be able to get wet and tighten with laces or a strap. No crocs or flip flops. Wetsuit books are available for rent that help keep your feet warm too!
• Sunglasses – The Animas River has claimed many pairs of sunglasses. Don’t let it take yours too! A sunglasses strap helps keep your glasses on your head. They are also known as chums and are available for purchase at our gift shop.
• Sunscreen – The Animas River is in a high UV zone and reflection from the water intensifies sun exposure. Any exposed skin should be covered with SPF 50. Consider wearing long sleeve quick drying material clothing (available for purchase in our gift shop).
• Hat – For added sun protection, wear a hat under your helmet.
• Water bottle – Your water bottle can rest at your feet in the bottom of the raft to keep it easily accessible. Our self-bailing rafts allow water to flow in and out of the bottom of the boats that helps act as a convenient water bottle cooler. Guides bring larger water containers for refills.
• Fleece – If there’s cooler weather, fleece is a great material for added warmth. It is quick drying and stays warm when it’s wet. Wear it under our complimentary splash tops or a rain jacket to break the wind and prevent evaporative cooling.
• Thermal river equipment – Wetsuits and wetsuit boots are available for rent.

For more information on what to wear and bring continue to our full what to wear and bring page.