Economy Durango Rafting Trip
Lower Animas River
About This Trip
Hit the town run for 1 hour on the water
Our Durango rafting economy trip is great a sampler trip for those with a tight itinerary. Durango’s Animas River is a popular day trip for locals and visitors! Bounce through fun-filled rapids on Durango’s Lower Animas, such as; “Train Bridge,” “Baby Smelter,” “Smelter Rapid,” and “Santa Rita”!
There is no experience necessary; we provide all you need for a fun, quick rafting day out on the river! Paddle along with the guide (we’ll teach you if you don’t know how) or sit back, relax, and let the guide do all the work!
Later in the season, all rapids can be downgraded a half to a full class. The river will become more technical and you may bounce and spin-off of the rocks as you maneuver into the channels of the river. Inflatable kayaks are a great option to increase the level of adventure for ages 11 and up!
The only thing you will regret about this trip option is that you don’t get as much time on the water as you do during the Half Day or 3/4-Day! Lower Animas economy trips starting at $44.00

Season
April – September

Class of Rapids
High Water: I, II & III
Low Water: I, II & one III

Meet Time
10:30 AM or 3:15 PM

Return
12:50 PM or 5:35 PM
Boat Options
Standard Rafts

15 foot self-bailing rafts (up to 10 guests). Opt for an Oar Boat (paddle along with the guide as you like), or a Paddle Boat (more adventurous) when the guide just has a paddle and relies on you to help get through the rapids! Ages 4+
Peak Season trips are $5 extra between June 27th – August 5th.
Premium Rafts

Experience a smaller guide to guest ratio (up to 6 guests) and a more personalized trip. Enjoy a smaller 12 or 13 foot raft, or request a 15 foot raft for a more conservative adventure. Ages 4+
Peak Season trips are $5 extra between June 27th – August 5th.
New Flexible Payment & Cancellations
Payment Options
- 1/2 down, 1/2 charged 30 days prior to trip.
- 1/3 down with remaining balance charged in thirds.
- Call for other arrangements!
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.
Cancellation Policy
Receive a 90% refund 36 hours or more before the trip.
Fees
In addition to the listed trip cost, we collect an additional 8% for River and Land Access Fees (ie. Forest Service, BLM, City, Private Land Use).
Itinerary
Itinerary
Important Considerations
At high water levels (usually early June) our age limits may increase or younger kids may be shuttled around the larger Class III rapid.
All itineraries are subject to change due to water conditions.
Wetsuits are highly recommended from May through June, and wetsuit boots are recommended all season. Rentals are available!
Durango tends to get afternoon rain showers, so sometimes you get more water than you pay for!
While you are rafting, be sure to make accommodations for your four-legged friends. While the water temperatures are cold, the outside temperatures are very hot! Dogs cannot be kept in a vehicle while you raft.
What to Wear & Bring
- Swimsuit/Quick drying clothing (avoid cotton because it stays the temperature of the water and keeps you cold)
- Rain jacket
- Water shoes or secure sandals with heel straps (no flip flops or crocs!)
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with a strap
- Water bottle
- Camera with waterproof case
- Warm, dry change of clothes (for after rafting)
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)
Trip Highlights
- See a different and more beautiful view of Durango
- Get the perfect mix of excitement through fun rapids and relaxation during calm sections
- Learn the wild history of the town and Southwest Colorado
- Hang out with fun, entertaining river guides
- Smelter White Water Park’s Class III splashes
- Wildlife: Deer, beaver, fox, birds of prey, river otters
- A hands on experience in helping the guides paddle and navigate down the river
- A great trip that pairs perfect with our other Durango tours.