The free-flowing Animas River runs from high in the San Juan Mountains along the Durango and Vallecito Lake areas to New Mexico. The river passes by attractions such as the Durango/Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, as well as a Southern Ute Indian Reservation and old mine ruins. Cruising down this river, you will also experience panoramic views of the Southern Rockies and glimpses of wildlife.

The Animas River also has a longer season for rafting than most rivers in Colorado. Snowmelt and summer rains bring heavy run-off until mid-June, but the water may not be clear until July. The Animas is usually navigable into late August or early September, depending upon snowpack and summer rains.

The Animas River was once named "Killer River" because of its ferociousness. The upper river, when at high water, is considered by many to be the most difficult commercially run river in Colorado. The upper region of the Animas River has rapids in IV+ and V classes, with over 100 rapids in its 25-28 mile run. The gradient at times is as high as 85%, dropping 150 feet per mile.

If you are looking for a little less of an risk, the lower Animas River runs 11 miles with class I-II rapids. This run is perfect as an adventure for the whole family!

The International Rapid Rating Scale:
Class I: Easy. Fast moving water with riffles, small waves.
Class II: Novice. Straightforward rapids, wide, clear channels.
Class III: Intermediate. Rapids, moderate, irregular waves.
Class IV: Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids, precise boat handling.
Class V: Expert. Long, obstructed, violent rapids.

Whitewater Rafting Companies on the Animas River:

Boulder Outdoor Center: Rafting, Kayaking & Snowmobiling

Winter & summer equipment, lessons & guided trips. Snow-sports: snowcat, heli skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing. Paddle-sports: kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. EXPERTISE is our difference.

Mild to Wild Rafting & 4 Wheel Adventures Discover family fun in the 4 Corners Region! Rafting & Jeeping tours in Durango, CO & Moab, UT. Also on the Salt River & Verde River in Arizona. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Train combo specials.

Animas River Whitewater Rafting / Arkansas River Whitewater Rafting / Blue River Whitewater Rafting / Cache la Poudre River Whitewater Rafting / Clear Creek River Whitewater Rafting / Colorado River Whitewater Rafting / Dolores River Whitewater Rafting / Eagle River Whitewater Rafting / Green River Whitewater Rafting / Gunnison River Whitewater Rafting / Lake Fork River Whitewater Rafting / Little Cimarron River Whitewater Rafting / Lower Colorado River Whitewater Rafting

North Platte River Whitewater Rafting / Piedra River Whitewater Rafting / Rio Chama River Whitewater Rafting / Rio Grande River Whitewater Rafting / Roaring Fork River Whitewater Rafting / San Juan River Whitewater Rafting / San Miguel River Whitewater Rafting / South Platte River Whitewater Rafting / St. Vrain River Whitewater Rafting / Taylor River Whitewater Rafting / Uncompahgre River Whitewater Rafting / Upper Colorado River Whitewater Rafting / White River Whitewater Rafting / Yampa River Whitewater Rafting

A-Z List of Accommodations | A-Z List of Fun Things to Do
Links | Help | Contact Us | About Us | Free Printed Directory | Download Free Map

Places To Stay | Fun Things To Do | Colorado Maps