Durango 3/4 Day Kayaking Trip – Lower Animas River

Imagine drifting along a river with the thrill of white water splashes and the calm of scenic vistas—this is what the Durango 3/4 Day Kayaking Trip on the Lower Animas River offers. While we haven’t personally paddled through it, detailed reviews and honest insights paint a picture of an adventure that balances excitement with stunning natural beauty.

What really stands out for this trip are the expert guides, the variety of rapids, and the scenic views of Durango from a different perspective. The inclusion of gear, instruction, and lunch makes this experience more accessible, even for those with little to no kayaking experience.

One consideration is the water flow, which varies seasonally—lower flows in late summer can make the rapids even more lively. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, and who are comfortable with physical activity. Families with kids over 10, thrill-seekers, and nature lovers will probably find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• Balanced Experience: Combines exciting Class II and III rapids with calm, scenic stretches.
• Expert Guides: Highly trained guides provide safety, gear, and local insights.
• Inclusion of Lunch: A good-value feature, making the trip a full, satisfying outing.
• No Experience Needed: Suitable for beginners with friendly instruction.
• Seasonal Water Flows: Late summer flows create more exhilarating rapids.
• Great for All Levels: From adventure seekers to those simply wanting to see Durango from the water.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Durango Kayaking Experience

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Lower Animas River kayaking trip is unique in its ability to offer an experience that’s both adrenaline-pumping and visually stunning. The inflatable kayaks are designed for stability and fun, even for first-timers. Guides like Mike and Sarah are not only seasoned paddlers but also enthusiastic storytellers, sharing local insights that enhance the trip’s cultural context.

This tour is a full day of activity, lasting almost 6 hours, with about 4 hours and 15 minutes on the water. That’s enough time to truly experience the river’s character—some sections are mellow and perfect for admiring the scenery, while others promise splash-worthy Class II and III rapids like Smelter, Santa Rita, and Sawmill.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point & Safety Briefing: The trip begins with a safety orientation at the put-in site. Guides demonstrate how to paddle, what to do during rapid sections, and how to stay safe. They’re friendly, clear, and patient—important for those new to kayaking.

First Rapids – Class II White Water: After gear-up, the group heads into the first set of moderate rapids. These are lively but manageable, perfect for building confidence. Reviews mention that guides are attentive to individual needs, making sure everyone feels secure.

Calm Scenic Sections: Between rapids, the river widens into calmer stretches. These allow passengers to relax, take photos, and enjoy the stunning views of Durango’s rugged landscape from a different angle. The guides often share interesting tidbits about the area and its history.

The Big Splash – Class III Rapid: The highlight of the trip is the Smelter rapid, a well-known Class III splash zone. It’s described as “exhilarating” and “thrilling,” with some reviewers noting it’s a perfect mix of excitement and safety, thanks to the guides’ expertise.

Lunch & Rest: After navigating the most exciting stretches, the group pulls over for a delicious deli-style lunch. Many mention that the included lunch is surprisingly substantial and satisfying—ideal for refueling after paddling.

Final Rapids & Return: The trip concludes with a few more rapids and scenic views before paddling back to the launch site. The guides ensure everyone’s comfortable and having fun until the very end.

What Does the Experience Feel Like?

Guests describe the atmosphere as friendly and energetic. Guides are praised for their knowledge and patience, making the trip suitable for all ages and skill levels. One reviewer mentioned that even non-swimmers felt secure with the provided safety gear and instructions.

The view of Durango from the water is a clear highlight. Many reviewers appreciated how the quieter sections of the river reveal a different, more intimate side of the town’s natural surroundings—far from the bustling streets.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gear, Safety, and Comfort

All necessary safety gear, including helmets, Coastguard-approved PFDs, and splash jackets, are provided. For those wondering about the weather, wetsuits and boots are available for rent at $15, which could be a good idea if water flows are brisk.

Guides give thorough paddle instructions, emphasizing safety and fun. Reviewers note that the inflatable kayaks are custom-designed for stability and ease of paddling, making them suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure lovers looking for a mix of adrenaline and scenic beauty. Families with kids over 10 tend to rave about the experience, as it’s safe yet exciting. It’s also a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a guided, all-inclusive day on the water with expert locals.

Practical Details and What to Consider

Duration and Schedule

The tour lasts about 6 hours, with the actual paddling time being around 4 hours and 15 minutes. The total time includes gear-up, safety orientation, lunch, and travel to and from the river.

Cost and Value

At $206 per person, this experience might seem a bit pricey compared to shorter outings, but when you consider the full day of guided adventure, gear, instruction, and lunch, it offers good value. The inclusion of professional guides and safety equipment further enhances the experience, especially for beginners.

Seasonality & Water Flows

In late summer, the water flows tend to be lower, making the rapids more lively and fun. However, if you prefer gentler paddling, early or spring seasons might be more suitable. Check availability and water conditions before booking, especially in dry seasons.

Group Size & Accessibility

While specific group sizes are not mentioned, guided trips typically run in small groups for safety and personal attention. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, non-swimmers, or those with low fitness levels. It’s also not recommended for individuals over 95 years old.

Booking & Cancellation

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you peace of mind to adapt your plans if needed.

The Sum Up: Who and Why Should You Try This?

This inflatable kayaking trip on the Lower Animas River offers a compelling blend of thrill, scenery, and expert guidance. If you’re craving an outdoor adventure that provides both excitement and the chance to see Durango from a different perspective, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for those who want to try white water kayaking in a safe, inclusive environment, with the added bonus of a hearty lunch and stunning views.

Families with older children, adventure enthusiasts, and nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy here. The guides’ local knowledge and the well-designed equipment mean you’ll feel supported at every step. While it’s slightly more costly than some activities, the full-day experience packed with fun, safety, and beautiful scenery makes it worth considering.

This trip isn’t just about paddling—it’s about making memories on the water, with the guidance of seasoned locals and the natural beauty of Durango as your backdrop. Be prepared for an energetic day that will leave you with stories to tell and a fresh appreciation for Colorado’s great outdoors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, no experience is needed. The guides provide full instruction and safety gear, making it accessible for first-timers.

What is included in the price? The cost covers gear (helmets, PFDs, splash jackets), instruction, safety orientation, a deli-style lunch and beverages, and the inflatable kayaks.

Are wetsuits available? Yes, wetsuits and boots can be rented for $15 if you think you’ll need extra warmth or protection.

How long is the trip? The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes of paddling time.

What are the main rapids I’ll encounter? The trip features Class II rapids and one exciting Class III rapid, including Smelter, Santa Rita, and Sawmill.

Is this tour family-friendly? It’s suitable for children over 10 years old, but not recommended for younger children or non-swimmers.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip.

Do I need to bring my own gear? No, all safety and paddling gear are provided by the guides.

How scenic is the trip? You’ll see a different, more beautiful view of Durango from the river, with scenic stretches between rapid sections.

Can I reschedule if I have a change of plans? Yes, the booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexible scheduling.

In summary, if you’re looking for an adventure that combines white water excitement with stunning vistas, this Lower Animas River kayaking trip is a top contender. Guided by passionate local experts, you’ll experience Durango from a fresh angle—on the water, paddling through exhilarating rapids, and enjoying scenic tranquility.

You can check if your dates are available here: