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
William Hobbs
Oct 2026
5.0

Darren did a great job. Very knowledgeable and professional.

TRIPADVISOR
W6646ULruthw
Oct 2026
5.0

Our guide was knowledgeable and just a nice personable guy. We learned a lot.

VIATOR
Tammy_G
Oct 2026
5.0

Tyranny did a great job, recommend the Grandstaff hike which we did up to Morning Glory Arch. Fantastic! Thanks so much!