About This Trip
Telluride Rafting: Afternoon Half Day Trip
Rafting the San Miguel’s Afternoon Half Day Trip is basically the best way to enjoy Telluride’s surrounding wilderness. Not that we’re partial to running rivers around here or anything… But c’mon, it’s a free-flowing, mountain river, who doesn’t want that?
This stretch of the San Miguel is a bit more mild than the upper section as the canyon widens out. Don’t get it twisted though, the flows are higher in this sections and the splashes are aplenty with constant Class II drops and wave trains.
In between the ferocious (yet surprisingly friendly) froth on this run, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the unique scenery of Norwood Canyon. Keep an eye out for deer, birds of prey, and sociable river otters. By the end of afternoon, you’ll have conquered one of the most elusive rivers in the region, despite its proximity to bougie and beloved Telluride.
- Unique scenery in a red sandstone canyon covered with pine trees
- Narrow waterway that cuts through twisting canyons
- Constant rapids in a swift moving current
- Diverse ecosystem where the alpine melds with the desert
- Wildlife: Otters, eagles, snakes, deer
- Perfect for those who want an active rafting trip
- Fun river guides who have run the San Miguel for years
Itinerary & Map
* Please note that all itineraries are subject to change due to river conditions.
Booking Options
Standard Rafts
15 foot self-bailing rafts (up to 10 guests).
We use Oar Boats or Paddle Boats on these trips depending on water levels. Oar Boats, typically used at high water, come with a frame that give the guide more control with oars. With Paddle Boats, typically used at low water, the guide just has a paddle and relies on you to help get through the rapids!
- Ages 8+
Payments & Cancellations
Payment Plan
We start with a 50% deposit, and have the remaining 50% charged 30 days prior to trip. Trips reserved less than 30 days in advance require payment in full.
Please call for alternative payment arrangements.
Cancellation Policy
Receive a full refund with written notice 24 hours or more before the trip. Less notice, no refund.
Trip Change Option
Up to 12 hours prior to departure, trips can be rescheduled for a different day and/or time. The price of this change policy is 5% of the total trip cost. Upgrade only available at time of reservation and must be applied to each seat.
Multi-Day Trips: See our Cancellation Policy page.
Fees
In addition to the listed trip cost, we collect an additional 9% for River and Land Access Fees (ie. Forest Service, BLM, City, Private Land Use).
Trip Departure Policy
We reserve the right to switch river/locations based on current conditions and a minimum number of participants. This trip requires 4 participants or paid seats to depart.
Free Courtesy Hold
We don’t want you to miss out on this trip so we’ll hold your spots, payment-free, for 24hrs while you make your final arrangements & prepare for payment.
What to Wear & Bring
- Swimsuit/Quick drying clothing (avoid cotton because it stays the temperature of the water and keeps you cold)
- Water shoes or secure sandals with heel straps (no flip flops or crocs!)
- Hat (that fits under your helmet)
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with a strap
- Water bottle
- Camera with waterproof case
Trips from May through June
- Wetsuits (available for rent)
- Wetsuit boots all season (available for rent)
- Fleece jacket and fleece socks (provides added warmth if you tend to get cold)
What To Wear On A Mountain Rafting Trip – Essential Rafting Attire
Important Considerations
Wetsuits are required through Spring on this trip. We have rentals available!
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes when you show up. There are no actual changing rooms at our remote meeting location.
If you are rafting in May or June, bring extra layers of fleece or polypropylene for warmth. Wool socks under the wetsuit boots also help keep you warmer.
All itineraries are subject to change due to water conditions and/or water levels.
Due to limited put-ins and take-outs, all trip times can vary by half an hour.
This is a hands-on paddling trip! Be ready to navigate with your guide through this narrow canyon.
Plan Your Trip
FAQ
Camping
Getting To Telluride
First Timer's Guide
Off-Roading
Weather
Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Telluride Rafting Meeting Location
- 970-247-4789
- Caddis Flats Campground, Placerville, CO 81430
- Get Directions
Related Adventures
San Miguel River
1hr and 30min on the water, 2hrs and 30min from meet to return.
- Adult: $139
- Youth: $129
San Miguel River
Enjoy the Class II & III rapids with five-star camping! Groups of 8+.
- Adult: $799
- Youth: $749
San Miguel River
3hrs and 45min on the water, 5hrs and 45min from meet to return. Lunch included!
- Adult: $199
- Youth: $189