Private Rafting Adventures with Southwest Raft & Jeep in Durango - Durango

Private Rafting Adventures with Southwest Raft & Jeep in Durango

Durangomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

1.5–4 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic physical fitness to sit, paddle, and manage brief exertion during rapids.

Overview

Experience the thrill of private white-water rafting on the Animas River with Southwest Raft and Jeep in Durango, Colorado. Perfect for families and groups, this adventure combines expert guides, stunning scenery, and memorable river fun.

Details

Durango, Colorado, a vibrant gateway to the San Juan Mountains, offers some of the most exhilarating white-water rafting experiences in the United States. Southwest Raft and Jeep stands out as a premier local outfitter, delivering private rafting trips that blend excitement with expert guidance. Their operations take advantage of the Animas River, renowned for its dynamic rapids, clear waters, and dramatic canyon views carved from sedimentary rock layers. The area’s diverse ecology, including cottonwood galleries and occasional sightings of river otters, enriches every run. Southwest Raft and Jeep commits to superior customer service, tailoring group sizes, including large parties, with seamless booking support and expert river guides like Ben, Dylan, and Christian who bring both safety and fun to every adventure. Their team ensures each trip—from beginners’ introductions to thrilling water runs—is memorable and educational. Durango itself is a hub of outdoor culture, balancing historic mining roots with a modern outdoor lifestyle, making it ideal for visitors seeking an authentic connection to the Colorado wilderness. The rafting trips captivate guests not just with thrills but also by providing a unique lens into this region’s landscape and heritage. Beyond the rapids, Southwest Raft and Jeep offers a chance to refresh by swimming in natural pools or enjoying scenic calm water stretches. The blend of intense white-water sections and gentler river areas makes the experience accessible for families, including kids as young as six when safety protocols are followed. As a local favorite, the company’s commitment to sustainability ensures the Animas River remains pristine for future generations. With exceptional guides, personalized customer care, and the lasting beauty of Durango’s river canyons, Southwest Raft and Jeep offers a rafting experience that truly stands apart.

Adventure Tips

Wear Secure Footwear

Swim shoes or sturdy sandals are essential to protect feet and provide traction when entering or exiting the raft.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Check-in and briefings can take time, so arriving early helps maximize your time on the river.

Bring Waterproof Sunscreen

Protect your skin from strong Colorado sun, especially on the reflective water surface.

Stay Hydrated

Carry water and drink plenty before and after rafting to stay refreshed and energized throughout the trip.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The Animas River’s Driftless Area for quiet wildlife observation
  • The lesser-known cascades near the Durango Wildlife Sanctuary

Wildlife

  • River otters
  • Bald eagles

History

Durango has its roots as a historic mining town with trails and river routes shaped by early settlers and Native American heritage.

Conservation

Southwest Raft and Jeep emphasizes environmentally responsible practices to preserve river health and minimize ecological impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Animas River canyon overlooks
  • Calm river pools near launch sites
  • Historic Durango waterfront area

What to Photograph

Rapid waters and waves
Surrounding rock formations
Rafting groups and guides

Recommended Gear

Swim Shoes

Essential

Protect your feet while providing grip when entering and exiting the river.

summer specific

Waterproof Sunscreen

Essential

Prevents sunburn from UV rays reflecting off the water.

summer specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Adjust to changing temperatures with base layers and water-resistant outerwear.

spring specific

Dry Bag

Keeps personal items safe from water during the rafting trip.

Book Now

Reviews