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Totally Tubular!

By Mild to Wild   •   August 7, 2012

As the summer starts to wind down, the river comes down too, and the most popular form of transportation on Durango’s Lower Animas River is…TUBING! There are a few things to keep in mind concerning safety that will help to keep your tubing experience fun.

Know where to put on and take off the river!
If you are not a local it can be confusing to see where you need to get out of the water because everything looks different from the river. It is important to know this though because there are is a class 3 rapid by Santa Rita Park that you do not want to tube through. We recommend taking out at 9th Street Bridge.

If you have kids Bring a PFD!
Young children should always wear a PFD (Personal Floatation Device)while on the water, regardless of the type of craft you will be floating on.

Be prepared to bump around on some rocks!
The water is low this time of year and you will bump into some rocks here and there. Some of them like to hide just under the surface so keep an eye out and protect your booty!

The river can get busy so be aware of the busiest time on the water!
The locals love to float, so they will be on the water in the afternoons (after work), on holidays and on the weekends. If you are looking for a quieter time to float try the mornings on a weekday. If you are looking to make new friends or play bumper boats the busy times are the times for you!

Be courteous!
The river is for everyone, so share the water. The biggest crafts have the right of way on the water, so tubers watch out for rafts. Leave no trace. Make sure to take everything you bring onto the river off the river. Everyone likes to see clean and beautiful riverbanks.

Be safe, know your water safety!
Don’t stand up in moving water (beware of foot entrapment) If you swim keep your feet down stream Have a buddy (keep an eye on everyone in your group, you don’t want to leave anyone behind)

Bring water and wear sunscreen!
The water feels great, but you can get dehydrated quickly, so bring some water for drinking. Wear Sunscreen, the reflection from the water doubles up the amount of sun rays you will experience.

Have FUN!
Put a smile on!

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