Embrace the Adventure with Care!
Durango’s gorgeous Animas River provides splishy-splashy fun for hundreds of people every summer. Knowing the proper tools, principles, and etiquettes when rafting the Animas River can help you and others have a safe yet enjoyable time. Whether it's a little cruise down to Oxbow Park and Preserve or a soaking run through Smelter Rapids, make sure you take extra care and safety on your next adventure down the Animas River. Visit Durango has gathered some helpful rafting tips to use the next time you’re floating down the Animas.
Rafting responsibly on the Animas River doesn’t have to be an intimidating adventure if you follow these tips and resources on your next trip.
Choose the Right Rafting Outfitters
A Few of the Rafting Companies in Durango
Durango, Colorado offers many different options when you are looking to choose a Durango rafting company. Places like Mild to Wild have been providing family fun for many years and even offer a rafting experience on the Upper Animas River. Other outfitters like Colorado Outback Adventures, Durango Rivertrippers, Southwest Raft & Jeep, or Mountain Waters have excellent family centered trips on the lower Animas. When looking for a rafting company you can’t go wrong with any of the outfitters in Durango!
Order the Full-Day Rafting Package
Most companies offer two different packages, a half-day trip and a full-day trip. Choosing a full-day rafting package is perfect for adventure seekers wanting a comprehensive river experience. You’ll enjoy more rapids, scenic views, and often a delicious lunch along the way.
Understand Your Skill Level
Beginner-Friendly Rapids Await
There is so much outdoor adventure in Durango, sometimes it can be intimidating when beginner-friendly rapids are a great way to get started with rafting, combining fun and safety. These rapids, usually classified as Class I or II, have gentle waves and easy-to-navigate obstacles, making them perfect for families, kids, and first-timers. If you are going on a beginner rafting trip make sure you check the CFS (cubic feet per second) of the river and scout out the rapids you are going through before hitting the river.
Take the Lower Animas in Durango, for example. It's a fantastic spot for beginners, with mild currents and beautiful scenery. Plus, guided trips typically include safety instructions which will prepare you for all the situations that might arise when rafting. When your guide is giving the ‘safety talk’ before your trip make sure you listen, they are always full of helpful tips and funny jokes. Between the rapids, you get plenty of time to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and maybe even spot some wildlife.
In short, the beginner-friendly rapids on the Animas River offer an exciting yet approachable adventure. When rafting the Animas River you’ll get the thrill of rafting while feeling safe and comfortable. Listen to your guide and if you’re going on the river without one make sure you have the proper equipment.
Gear Up Properly
Essential Rafting Equipment
When gearing up for a rafting trip, having the right equipment is crucial for both rafting safety and enjoyment. First and most importantly on your rafting gear checklist is a well-fitted life jacket, or personal flotation device (PFD). Your PFD ensures buoyancy and keeps you afloat if you fall into the water. Make sure your PFD isn’t too loose on your body or it might come off when you hit the water.
A helmet is also important, protecting your head from rocks and other potential hazards. If you are rafting with a company they will provide these.
Additionally, a good pair of water shoes or sandals with secure straps provides grip and protects your feet from sharp objects.
Other essential gear includes a paddle, which is your main tool for navigating the rapids. It's important to choose the right size paddle based on your height and the type of rafting you'll be doing. A throw bag, containing a length of rope, is a crucial safety item used for rescuing someone who has fallen overboard.
Sunscreen and polarized sunglasses are also important to protect against sun exposure and glare off the water. Lastly, carry a dry bag to keep your personal belongings and any emergency gear safe and dry. If you are rafting with a company, leave your phone and other personal items in the car just to be safe. With the right equipment, you can focus on the adventure and enjoy a thrilling, safe rafting experience.
Respect the Environment
Leave No Trace
Environmental stewardship is important when rafting on any river. Leaving no trace on the river is super important to keep these beautiful spots clean and enjoyable for everyone. Make sure to pack out everything you bring with you, like trash, food scraps, and personal items. Avoid using soap in the river—even the biodegradable kind—since it can harm the fish and plants. Use the proper facilities for human waste or pack it out if there aren’t any.
And remember to keep a respectful distance from wildlife and never feed them. By following these simple steps, we can help keep our rivers clean and enjoyable for everyone who lives and visits.
Be Considerate of Other Rafters
Share the River
Sharing the river is all about being considerate and making sure everyone has a great experience. Whether you’re kayaking, rafting, or fishing, give others plenty of space and avoid making waves that could disrupt their fun. If you’re in a big group, try not to take up the whole river—leave room for others to pass. Keep noise levels down to preserve the natural peace and avoid startling wildlife.
Fly fishing is a popular activity in Durango especially in the summers, so be mindful of fishers standing on the bank or in the water.
By being respectful and courteous we can all enjoy the river together.
Conclusion
Enjoy Durango Responsibly
Next time you are looking into rafting the Animas River in Durango, Colorado use Leave no Trace principles and share the river. This maintains the beauty of the Animas for other rafters and future generations. Don’t forget to wear your PFD, helmet, and other safety equipment which will ensure your time rafting is the safest it can be.
