Durango 1/4 Day Kayaking Trip

Lower Animas River

About This Trip

2 hours round trip, 1 hour on water

For those who want to be in control of their own destiny and increase the level of adventure, we offer inflatable kayaks. Paddle, spin and surf your way down Durango’s Animas River in your own craft, under the leadership of an instructional guide. No prior experience is necessary.

All of the rivers we run are snowmelt, which means later in the season, all rapids can be downgraded a half to a full Class. Inflatable kayaks are a great way to experience the river at lower water levels as it is easier to maneuver through the rocks that come up from the bottom of the river.

One hour on the water is great if you’re pressed for time, but if you’re not, try the Half Day or 3/4-Day trip to get more experience in an inflatable kayak!

  • See a different and more beautiful view of Durango
  • Get the perfect mix of excitement through fun rapids and relaxation during calm sections
  • Learn a fun skill while hanging out with fun, entertaining river guides
  • Smelter White Water Park’s Class III splashes
  • Wildlife: Deer, beaver, fox, birds of prey, river otters
Ducky Guide Training - Lower Animas - Mild to Wild Rafting

Itinerary & Map

10:30 AM or 2:15 PM
Check in, sign release forms and get dressed for the river! Wetsuit and bootie rentals are required through June and highly recommended from July on.
 
Five minute shuttle to the river for safety orientation and kayak instructions.
 
Hit the river!
 
Practice getting in and out of your inflatable kayak at the “Lake”.
 
Tackle “Train Bridge Rapid,” “Baby Smelter” and finally the Class III “Smelter Rapid”.
 
Take out and shuttle back.
12:50 PM or 4:35 PM
Arrive back at the office.
The river becomes more peaceful as we head further out of town and away from the road.
Lower Animas Rafting Map - Mild to Wild

Booking Options

Inflatable kayak

Inflatable Kayaks

Get ready for a great workout as you navigate on your own through Durango’s Lower Animas!

  • Ages 11+ 

Per Person

$99

Reviews from our Guests

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cynthia forbis profile picture
cynthia forbis
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Had an awesome experience on a jeep ride through La Plata Canyon with Jared. He was knowledgeable and a skilled driver, we were in good hands. The scenery was gorgeous and we enjoyed seeing this beautiful place. Thanks Jared!
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Tim Swope profile picture
Tim Swope
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Tim was an awesome guide……with all of his knowledge and stories and enthusiasm for the Colorado mountains it made for a great trip!
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vicki fathallah
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Tim was amazing. Very informative and very pleasant tour guide. I would recommend him for your next tour. I enjoyed it very much
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Claudia Hartley profile picture
Claudia Hartley
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Our guide Jared was knowledgeable and personable. It was a great experience.
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Alberto Gonzalez profile picture
Alberto Gonzalez
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We did the Silverton Jeep Tour Package on 9/28/26 and it was a once in a lifetime experience. Our guide, Tim, took us to picturesque landscapes while giving us knowledge of the history surrounding the mountains of Silverton, all while it was raining I should say. Plus we were able to see and experience first hand snow falling at a higher altitude. We were given ample time to shop around town before departing on the train back to Durango. Only minor thing I would critique was that the roof cover, for the 6 seats in back, was not 99.9% waterproof because their were water drops falling from the cover while it was raining but it was no biggie for us and part of the adventure to be honest (we were given waterproof blankets to cover our bodies from the beginning). PLEASE BRING LAYERS AS MENTIONED ON THEIR WEBSITE (YOU'RE GOING TO NEED THEM)!
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Holly Gibson profile picture
Holly Gibson
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Our tour to Mesa Verde with Ann as our guide was truly amazing! She was so knowledgeable, answered questions and gave us so much to think about regarding Mesa Verde. The lunch provided was filling and there were plenty of refreshments offered throughout the day. I highly recommend the full day tour! Visiting Cliff Palace is so worth it!
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Sam Lyons
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Amazing! We had the best time. Our guide Dylan made us feel very safe, while taking us through fun rapids.
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Josh Jessop profile picture
Josh Jessop
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Our tour guide Ann made this already beautiful tour absolutely incredible! We were so grateful to spend the day with her. She was a wealth of enthusiasm and knowledge. Overall a great day with great people.

What are you waiting for? Call today (800) 567-6745 OR (970) 247-4789

Payments & Cancellations

Payment Plan

We start with a 50% deposit, and have the remaining 50% charged 30 days prior to the trip. Trips reserved less than 30 days in advance require payment in full. Please call for alternative payment arrangements.

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.

Fees

In addition to the listed trip cost, we collect an additional 9% for River and Land Access Fees (i.e. 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 (if you’re not using wetsuit booties)
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses with a strap
  • Water bottle
  • Camera with waterproof case
  • Warm, dry change of clothes (for after rafting)

Trips through June and after July

  • 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)
  • Splash Jacket

What To Wear On A Mountain Rafting Trip – Essential Rafting Attire

Scenic Upper Animas River - Upper Animas Rafting - Mild to Wild

Important Considerations

Lower Animas Kayaking-Durango Colorado-Mild to Wild Rafting
  • If the Animas River is flowing over 1800 CFS, kayakers will be moved to a premium raft option for safety.

  • Wetsuits are required through June and are highly recommended after July.

  • Physical fitness is recommended, as this trip is a bit of a workout!

  • Kayaking is not recommended for ages 80+

  • The inflatable kayaks sits low in the water, so there will be water in the kayak the whole time. Thus, you’re going to get wet!

  • If everyone in your group isn’t up for the challenge of an inflatable kayak just yet, they can go along in a raft with a guide at the same time

  • We do not provide snacks on this trip, so bring some along in a small waterproof bag along with your water bottle.

Trip Planning Info

Meet Location & Directions

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