Upper Animas 1 Day Rafting Trip

From$499
8 hours

About this activity

Conquer the Upper Animas River! This legendary run, Durango to Silverton, boasts nonstop Class III, IV, and V rapids, demanding fitness and focus amidst breathtaking wilderness.

Highlights

  • Continuous Class II and III with intermittent IV and V rapids
  • Roar through the Weminuche Wilderness
  • 13,000-foot peaks rising from the banks of the river
  • Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Rail Road to river access

Full description

Experience the excitement of the Upper Animas! This legendary whitewater run, between Durango and Silverton, demands physical fitness and focus. Conquer nonstop rapids, a challenging sequence of continuous Class II and III action punctuated by exhilarating IVs and Vs. Plunge through a breathtaking landscape where towering 14,000-foot mountains rise above, and the river roars through the vast, untamed Weminuche Wilderness. With an average gradient of 85 feet per mile, this is the most challenging commercially run river in the U.S., a wild ride for the exceptionally capable.

Included / Excluded

  • Orientation Trip on the Lower Animas River
  • Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Train Ticket
  • Deli-Style Lunch and Beverages
  • Experienced, professional, and interpretive guides
  • Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Devices, Helmets, 5mm Wetsuits, and Splash Jackets
  • Gratuities
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen

Meeting point

Start Location

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours, 50 Animas View Dr, Durango, CO 81301, USA

Important information

Know before you book

  • Participants must be in excellent physical condition and possess strong swimming skills.
  • Passing a mandatory swim test is required before the trip.

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

Google
Parker Garwick
Aug 2026
5.0

Awesome experience with the family. Eli was a great guide and made sure everyone had a great time. Amazing way to experience the area.

Google
Craig Tomlinson
Aug 2026
5.0

Great experience. Our guide Kaya was tremendous.

Google
G. L.
Aug 2026
5.0

We really enjoyed the half day trip with Paul as our guide. He was knowledgeable about the terrain, the history, and landmarks in the area. Great way to spend an afternoon with family and friends!