Short on time but wanting big river fun? This 2-hour Splash 'N' Dash on the Lower Animas packs about an hour of rafting into a family-friendly outing with professional guides and shuttle service from Durango.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the shuttle at the riverbank and the Animas greets you with a bright, cold current that seems to dare you right away. Low canyon walls frame a ribbon of steel-blue water, cottonwoods flash green along the shore, and the guide’s voice becomes part instruction, part coax—“paddle, lean, brace.” The trip is tight and lively: about an hour on the water inside a 2.5-hour door-to-door outing, engineered for families who want strong river time without a full-day commitment.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to sit, brace, and paddle for short bursts; families with small children should be comfortable with quick water exposure
Wildlife
History
The Animas corridor helped sustain Durango’s mining and rail economy in the late 19th century; remnants of that era still appear along valley roads and old rail grades.
Conservation
River use is managed to minimize bank erosion and litter; follow Leave No Trace, avoid soap in the water, and secure trash to protect aquatic habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Durango ~ 2.5 "Splash "N" Dash" Family Rafting Lower Animas River today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear secure footwear
Closed-toe water shoes or sturdy sandals prevent lost shoes during swims and provide traction on slippery river access points.
Skip cotton clothing
Choose quick-dry synthetic layers to stay warm when wet and speed up drying after the trip.
Bring sun protection
Sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses protect against intense high-altitude sun reflecting off the water.
Keep valuables dry
No backpacks on the raft—use a small waterproof phone case or leave items in the shuttle to avoid loss.
Closed-toe water shoes
Protects feet on rocky launch ramps and during any unexpected swims.
summer
Quick-dry clothing (synthetic shorts/tee)
Dries quickly and retains less water and weight than cotton.
summer
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Keeps camera or phone safe and lets you capture river photos without risking loss.
Light fleece or wind layer
Adds warmth for cooler mornings or after getting wet on the river.
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