Slip into a raft and let the San Miguel set the tempo—technical, splashy whitewater framed by red rock and pine just outside Telluride. With expert guides, a riverside lunch, and scenery that keeps unfolding, this full-day run blends accessible thrills with high-country character.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slides down the red walls of San Miguel Canyon as the river mutters at your ankles, cool and insistent. Helmets click, paddles dip, and the raft noses into a channel braided with boulders. The San Miguel doesn’t roar so much as it hustles, pushing you forward through Class II and III wave trains where the spray hits like alpine confetti and the current dares you to keep rhythm. Guides call clean, snappy commands—“Forward two!”—and you answer, skirting sandstone buttresses and tight corners where the water squeezes and quickens.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5.5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Expect steady paddling and short onshore carries; active adults and kids 10+ who are comfortable in moving water will do well.
Wildlife
History
The San Miguel corridor sits within the ancestral lands of the Ute people; later, silver and gold prospectors chased strikes into Telluride’s high basins in the late 1800s, leaving a legacy of tramways and ghost sites.
Conservation
Respect private property along the riverbanks, pack out all trash, and avoid trampling riparian willows at lunch stops. Clean and dry personal gear to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Reserve your spot on the Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch - San Miguel River today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for cold water
Snowmelt keeps the San Miguel brisk even in July—wear synthetic layers under provided splash gear and skip cotton.
Be ready to paddle
This is a participatory trip with continuous Class II–III rapids; listen for commands and keep strokes in sync.
Secure the small stuff
Use a sunglass retainer and a waterproof case with leash for phones or action cams—swims and splashes happen.
Hydrate at altitude
At 7,000–8,000 feet, dehydration sneaks up fast—bring a full bottle and consider electrolytes with lunch.
Synthetic base layer and quick-dry shorts/swimsuit
Keeps you warm under splash gear and dries fast after waves and swims.
spring
Sunglass retainer strap
Prevents losing shades during wave trains and unexpected dips.
summer
Broad-spectrum waterproof sunscreen + lip balm SPF 30+
High-elevation sun reflects off water, increasing burn risk even on cool days.
summer
Reusable water bottle with carabiner
Clips to the raft for easy access and helps you stay hydrated at altitude.