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Tackle electrifying rapids and enjoy a tasty local BBQ on this 5.5-hour guided rafting trip near Durango. Get ready for a day full of excitement and stunning scenery!
Tackle electrifying rapids and enjoy a tasty local BBQ on this 5.5-hour guided rafting trip near Durango. Get ready for a day full of excitement and stunning scenery!
Book with Colorado Outback Adventures
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Colorado Outback Adventures · Durango, Colorado
Join Colorado Outback Adventures for an adrenaline-packed 3/4 Day Rafting Trip on the scenic rivers around Durango, Colorado. Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, this guided journey takes you through exhilarating rapids including Smelter, Sawmill, Santa Rita, and Pinball. Over approximately 5.5 hours, experience the rush of navigating whitewater rapids while surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The trip also includes a welcome break at a local BBQ spot where you can savor delicious, authentic Colorado flavors, blending adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re new to rafting or an experienced paddler, the professional guides ensure safety and fun throughout the excursion. The route offers a variety of rapid classes that keep the energy high, while the calm sections provide time to appreciate the river’s beauty. Beyond the water, Durango’s rich local culture and scenic views make this rafting trip a complete outdoor adventure you won't forget. With comfortable transportation and expert guidance by Colorado Outback Adventures, you’re set for a memorable whitewater experience that balances thrills and great taste.
challenging.
5.5 hours.
Participants should have moderate physical fitness to handle paddling and quick reactions in rapids.
No prior rafting experience is needed; all skill levels are welcome and safety instructions are provided.
Bring quick-drying clothes, water shoes, sun protection, and any waterproof bags for electronics.
Yes, the trip includes a stop at a local BBQ restaurant where you’ll enjoy a delicious meal.
Professional guides provide safety briefings, life jackets, and helmets to ensure your security throughout.
This trip is generally recommended for ages 12 and up due to the challenging rapids and trip duration.
The company monitors conditions closely and will reschedule or refund if weather makes rafting unsafe.
Durango’s rivers have served as key waterways for Native American tribes and early settlers in the region.
Colorado Outback Adventures emphasizes leave-no-trace principles and partners with local groups to protect river ecosystems.
Colorado Outback Adventures is an outdoor activity provider based in Durango, Colorado, specializing in guided whitewater rafting, inflatable kayak trips, Jeep tours, and UTV/RZR rentals across the San Juan backcountry. The company runs a range of short and half-day experiences — including 1/4-day and 1/2-day rafting and inflatable kayak trips on the Animas River, plus 2.5‑hour and 4.5‑hour guided raft adventures through rapids like Smelter, Sawmill, Santa Rita, and Pinball. Jeep tours travel to high-country highlights such as Bolam Pass and La Plata Canyon, with expert guides narrating local history and terrain. UTV and RZR options include 2-, 4-, and 6-seat vehicles for self-drive rentals and guided 'you drive' tours. Rentals come with helmets, maps, rain ponchos, and tailored trail recommendations for varying skill levels. Safety is emphasized: certified guides, modern equipment, and clear pre-trip briefings allow guests to focus on scenery and fun. Weather in the high country can change rapidly; guides advise dressing in layers and bringing sun protection. Colorado Outback Adventures caters to families, couples, and groups seeking accessible outdoor excitement. Short experiences appeal to first-time paddlers and drivers, while longer half-day excursions suit guests wanting deeper exploration. The operation combines adrenaline with educational storytelling about regional mining, waterways, and wildlife. Reservations, safety policies, and vehicle options are clearly described at booking to set expectations. Visitors can expect supportive staff, complimentary accessories where noted, and curated route suggestions to maximize time in the San Juan wilderness. Booking is available online and by phone year-round for all seasons.
Book with Colorado Outback Adventures