The San Miguel River - Colorado Whitewater Rafting In Telluride, CO
San Miguel
Frequently Asked Questions
River Related FAQ
WHERE IS THE MEET LOCATION?
Our meet location for the San Miguel River is at Caddis Flats Campground. This is a BLM managed campground 18 miles northwest of Telluride. It takes about 30 minutes to get there. Be sure to plug in the directions before you head out here, as you’ll lose service on the way through the canyon.
WHAT ARE THE CLASS OF RAPIDS ON THE SAN MIGUEL?
The upper section that we run on our morning trips is loaded with technical Class II rapids. This is friendly whitewater where the splashes are constant but not “boat-encompassing.” This sections also comes with the added fun of paddling through a narrow canyon around boulders and other obstacles in the river.
The lower section that we run on our afternoon trips comes with Class II and III rapids. The volume of water increases and river widens, making for a little less technical as the upper section, but a bit more splashy!
DO I HAVE TO HAVE ANY PADDLING EXPERIENCE?
You do not have to have held a paddle in your life before rafting the San Miguel, but you will need to be ready to use it and follow your guide’s commands accordingly. The San Miguel is a shallow and narrow waterway, so paddling is required on this trip to help your guide power the raft, and navigate the obstacles and rapids.
WHAT DO I WEAR?
For most of the San Miguel’s season, wetsuits are required due to the cold water temperatures.
- Quick dry clothing/Swimsuit
- Wetsuit (available for rent)
- Synthetic fleece (available for free)
- Splash jacket (available for free)
- Wetsuit booties (available for rent)
- Helmet (available for free)
When water temps are over 55°F :
- Quick dry clothing/Swimsuit
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Sandals with straps (no crocs or flip flops allowed!) or anything any shoes that will stay securely on your feet.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE MORNING AND AFTERNOON TRIP?
The morning section winds through a narrow canyon of the San Miguel, making it more technical but a little less splashy. If you want a more hands on paddling experience in a unique wilderness setting, opt for the morning trip.
The afternoon section runs through a wider section of the river where the volume and speed picks up. There are few bigger splashes to be had on this section. If you want to relax a little more, opt for the afternoon trip.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO RAFT THE SAN MIGUEL?
The San Miguel River has a very short season— usually around 6 weeks from June to July. We recommend going as early as possible when the flows are at their peak, usually the first couple weeks of June.
HOW LONG IS THE DRIVE BACK TO THE MEET LOCATION?
For morning trips, the shuttle is about 20 minutes.
For afternoon trips, the shuttle is about 30 minutes.