About This Trip
The Piedra River offers one of the most under-the-radar rafting trips in Colorado, flowing through a wonderfully rugged and highly protected swath of the San Juan National Forest. Down in the Piedra box canyon, one can expect narrow passageways lined with granite and looming ponderosas, with whitewater to oblige much of the way.
This section starts as a small creek with many technical Class II “splashes” that require maneuvering around various boulders. Consider this a warm up for the rest of the day! As creeks continue to cascade into the river, the Piedra swells with Class III “wet and fun” rapids and two stair-step Class IV rapids taking you over drops of 4 feet, 3 feet, and 2 feet into a pool of water.
Along the way, you’ll intermittent moments to put the paddle down and watch for wildlife, or admire the rare geology of this wild river canyon. We’ll stop for lunch in a forest grove midday, before finishing out the run through the trip’s biggest splashes.
Upper Piedra River 1-day raft trips starting at $209.00
Itinerary & Map
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 12+
Adult/Youth 12 & up
$209
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 an 80% refund with written notice 5 days prior to trip departure. Less notice, no refund.
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
- 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)
- 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
What To Wear On A Mountain Rafting Trip – Essential Rafting Attire
Important Considerations
A thermal wetsuit is required – rentals are available.
Wear your swimsuit under your clothes for the shuttle to the river. There are no actual changing rooms at our remote meeting location.
When the Piedra River level drops low (it gets real bony & the drops become more dramatic with bigger consequences), we will switch participants to the San Miguel River for a more suitable/fun trip. This will be arranged prior to your trip if necessary.
Since there is only road access where we put-in and take-out, all participants must be in shape to hike up out of the canyon (uphill 2 hours) if needed. This level of physical fitness is necessary to participate in this trip.
All itineraries are subject to change due to water conditions.
Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
- 970-247-4789
- 50 Animas View Dr., Durango, CO 81301
- Get Directions
Related Adventures
Animas River
- Season: May – October
- Adventure Level: Intermediate
- Duration: 1/4 – 3/4 Day
