Magpie
4.9(4,280 reviews)

Durango 3/4 Day Kayaking Trip - Lower Animas River

From$189
6 hours
Durango, USA

About this activity

Enjoy a full day day inflatable kayaking trip on Durango’s Lower Animas River with expert guides, tackling Class II rapids and one Class III. No experience needed—gear, instruction, and lunch are all provided!

Highlights

  • Smelter White Water Park’s Class III splashes
  • See a different and more beautiful view of Durango
  • Get the perfect mix of excitement through fun rapids and relaxation during calm sections
  • Smelter White Water Park’s Class III splashes

Full description

Experience the thrill of inflatable kayaking on Durango’s Lower Animas River! This full day trip lasts 5 hours and 45 minutes round trip, with 4 hours and 15 minutes on the water. Navigate exciting Class II rapids and one exhilarating Class III rapid, including “Smelter,” “Santa Rita,” and “Sawmill,” with calmer stretches for scenery and relaxation. Lower water flows in late summer make the rapids even more exciting. No experience is needed—our expert guides provide gear, instruction, and local insights. Lunch is included, making this the perfect mix of adventure and fun.

Included / Excluded

  • Deli-Style Lunch and beverages
  • Highly experienced and in-house trained river guides
  • Helmets, Coastguard approved Personal Flotation Devices, and Splash Jackets
  • Safety orientation and paddle instruction
  • Custom designed inflatable kayaks and paddles
  • Gratuities
  • Wetsuits and boots (rentals available for $15)

Meeting point

Start Location

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours, Animas View Drive, Durango, CO, USA

Important information

Know before you book

  • If the Animas River is flowing over 1800 CFS, kayakers will be moved to a premium raft option for safety.
  • Wetsuits are required through June and are highly recommended after July
  • Physical fitness is recommended, as this trip is a bit of a workout!
  • Kayaking is not recommended for ages 80+
  • Minimum age is 12

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts

Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

Reviews

4.9(4,280 reviews)
Google
Stephanie Hartzler
Sep 2026
5.0

Can’t say enough good things about M2W!! Our guide was awesome, he was friendly, patient and extremely knowledgeable. Scenery on Browns canyon was beautiful. We were here late in the year so water was low by the time we went, but he navigated us well. We are definitely coming back next year! Thanks Micah and good luck with all you do!

Google
Lauren Claytor
Sep 2026
5.0

Coolest guides!! Our guide’s nickname was Bugs- she had such cool info about history, wildlife, and the present, and managed everyone amazingly, even during conversations between strangers from very different walks of life. We were all friends by the end of the 4 hours! Such a fun, relaxing, beautiful rafting trip!

Google
Krystal Folsom
Sep 2026
5.0

Tim paid close attention to our conversation on the way to the trail from Durango to Silverton Colorado and used what he learned about us to create the perfect off-roading experience. The route was exciting, scenic, and perfectly suited to our interests—a personal touch we truly appreciated. Even the snacks arrived at exactly the right moment! Tim made us feel comfortable, cared for, and completely immersed in the adventure. It was a memorable experience from start to finish, and we highly recommend both Tim and Mild to Wild!

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