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
Our Client Reviews from Google
What are you waiting for? Call today (800) 567-6745 OR (970) 247-4789
Payments & 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.
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).
Cancellation Policy
Receive an 80% refund with written notice 5 days prior to trip departure. Less notice, unfortunately there will be no refund. Trip Insurance through RoamRight is recommended to help cover unforeseen circumstances.
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.
Plan Your Trip
FAQ
Camping & Dining
Itinerary
Map & River Log
Packing Guide
Weather & Rapids
Related Adventures
San Miguel River
San Miguel River rafting will thrust you into a world of forested red-rock walls, fast paced splashes and outdoor adventure.
Animas River
Inflatable kayaks offer the best of both worlds: the stability of a raft and maneuverability of a kayak. Paddle, spin and surf your way down the Animas River in your own craft, under the leadership of an instructional guide.
Silverton, CO
The Upper Animas is one of the most notorious whitewater rafting trips in the United States. This thundering stretch through the remote Weminuche Wilderness requires a wealth of respect, stamina, and tenacity from all those who run its wild waters.
Durango, CO
White Water rafting in Durango takes you right through the heart of town, and offers a perfect mix of exciting rapids for all experience levels. Locals and visitors alike love running this stretch for the exciting whitewater as much as its charming scenery and wildlife.