Piedra River 1 Day Rafting Trip - Pagosa Springs

From$209

7 hours

About this activity

Raft the Upper Piedra near Pagosa Springs for a wilderness river experience. Enjoy technical paddling, wildlife sightings, and class II, III, and IV rapids.

Highlights

Unique pristine wilderness area in a alpine rainforest-like setting
Pool drop rapids in between constant class II-III rapids
Most exciting whitewater rafting trip close to Pagosa Springs
Opportunities to spot wildlife, including bald eagle, hawks, bear, elk, deer, beaver, or otter

Full description

The Upper Piedra River, near Pagosa Springs, offers a pristine wilderness rafting experience. This vibrant mountain stream flows through a lush, alpine rainforest-like canyon, featuring Class II, III, and IV rapids. Paddlers navigate technical sections amidst striking granite cliffs and hefty boulders, creating a visually stunning and challenging ride. Unlike the busier San Juan River, the Piedra provides a secluded adventure, with "pool drop" rapids adding to the excitement. Highly restricted access by the Forest Service ensures the river's untouched beauty. Wildlife sightings, including eagles, bears, and deer, are a highlight. This is Pagosa's most adventurous rafting trip, a perfect introduction to higher-level whitewater in a protected natural setting.

Included / Excluded

Experienced, professional, and interpretive guides
Pre-trip orientation and wetsuit fitting
Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Devices, Helmets, and Splash Jackets
Deli-style lunch and beverages

Gratuities
Wetsuit rentals (available at checkout)

Meeting point

Start Location

Lower Piedra Campground, San Juan National Forest, Forest Road #621, Bayfield, CO 81122, USA

Get directions →

Important information

Know before you book

Minimum age is 12
Rafting is not recommended for people who are pregnant or have underlying heart or pulmonary conditions

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(4,387 reviews)

Mike Garrick

Jul 2026

5.0

Anna was our guide. She was so friendly and easy while making sure we were prepared and understood in the moment what to do. The whole team was great, each guide and the office staff. They went above and beyond for everyone to have great experience!! We wished we could’ve stayed out longer…next time.

Dude Williams

Jul 2026

5.0

Everything was seamless and AWESOME!! We did the mild rafting with some level 2&3’s. Enough to get us a wet and test the nerves a bit. They also set up a “slide” (overturned a raft and propped it on a rock) to let us and other rafters, slide down it into a deep pool of the river. Guides were very experienced and made the experience even better. Blake was the man!! We tipped but not sure if anyone else did in our group. Please, bring some extra $$ for these guides. They deserve it!

Michael Verhelst

Jul 2026

5.0

My son Dawson and I did the 3/4 day trip of the Lower Animas river and it was great. Our rafting guide was Mikayla and she was awesome!