Magpie
4.9(6,197 reviews)

Upper Animas 1 Day Rafting Trip

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

4.9(6,197 reviews)
Google
Erica Huddleston
Jun 2026
5.0

Sadie was an amazing guide! We really enjoyed the rapids and views of the river. Sadie was so friendly and knowledgeable. Our group was sad to see the experience end! Additional perks: -a chance to see wildlife -changing rooms outside -a fun group of guides who seem to really love their jobs and get along with each other!

Google
That mutt Lilly!! 28
Jun 2026
5.0

Kayla was nice, knowledgeable and fun. She kept us safe and engaged. Would definitely recommend this tour.

Google
Kasey Ramirez
Jun 2026
5.0

We had the best experience at mild to wild. It was the first time for all four of our kids to do white water rafting. Anthony was the best guide ever! He made everyone feel comfortable and had so much patience with all of our kids, especially our two little boys, that asked a million questions and were a little scared at first. We will definitely be going back!

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