Durango is a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Its location along the Lower Animas River makes it ideal for a variety of water-based adventures, and the town’s vibrant atmosphere adds a charming touch to each experience. Whether you want a quick splash of fun or a full day of paddling, Durango’s tour options deliver authentic outdoor adventures suited for all comfort levels. We’re especially fond of the Lower Animas River trips—offering everything from family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids—and the variety of kayaking trips that let you explore at your own pace. If you’re looking for practical, engaging ways to spend four days, this guide will help you pick the best options.
Quick Overview
Durango’s top 4-day tours focus on whitewater rafting, kayaking, and full-day adventures. You’ll find half-day and full-day trips that cater to different thrill levels, from relaxing paddles to exciting Class III rapids. For example, the Durango 1/4 Day Rafting Trip offers a family-friendly introduction, while the Durango 3/4 Day Rafting with Lunch combines adventure with a scenic riverside meal. For those preferring a more active approach, the Lower Animas River Kayaking or Full-Day Kayaking are perfect options. Keep reading for detailed reviews of each.
1. Durango 1/4 Day Rafting Trip – Lower Animas River
At number one, this family-friendly rafting trip is a quick yet memorable way to experience Durango’s wild side. Lasting around 2.5 hours, it’s perfect if you have limited time but still want to get on the water. The trip is praised for its easy-going atmosphere, with guides ready to tailor the experience for all ages and comfort levels. You can paddle yourself or sit back and enjoy the scenery as your guide handles the rowing.
What makes this trip stand out is its accessibility: all equipment and safety instructions are provided, making it suitable for children 4 and up. The route features a mix of Class II rapids, which are lively but manageable, plus a bold Class III rapid for a splash of excitement. It’s a nice blend of scenery, fun, and safety, with the added convenience of free parking and round-trip shuttles. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful river views, calling it “great for a family outing” and “super fun without being intimidating.”
Bottom Line: A perfect introduction for families or first-timers, offering a short, fun dose of Durango’s rapids with no fuss.
2. Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – Lower Animas River
For those ready to spend more time on the water, the Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch offers a longer, more immersive experience, lasting about six hours. This trip is ideal if you want a full taste of river adventure paired with a relaxed riverside meal. The guides are highly trained, ensuring your safety and enjoyment, regardless of whether you paddle or relax with your feet up.
What makes this tour special is its personalized feel—a low guide-to-guest ratio means fewer crowds and more attention. The trip includes free parking, changing rooms, and a locally made deli-style lunch halfway along the route, giving you a true Colorado-style break. The route includes Class II rapids for the majority of the trip, but the Class III rapid introduces a splash of adrenaline. Reviewers often mention how the guides’ professionalism enhances the experience, and the lunch offers a good balance of refueling without losing the adventure’s pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a more extensive rafting experience and enjoy a relaxed, scenic lunch midway through the day.
3. Durango 1/4 Day Kayaking Trip – Lower Animas River
If you’re eager to try kayaking, the Durango 1/4 Day Kayaking Trip offers a perfect introduction. Lasting just over two hours, it combines easy paddling with a taste of adrenaline on the river’s Class II rapids and an exciting Class III rapid called “Sawmill.” With about an hour on the water, it’s a manageable way to see if kayaking is your thing without a big time commitment.
What sets this trip apart is that no experience is required—the guides are experts at making beginners feel comfortable. They provide all gear, instruction, and local tips. The trip is praised for its scenic stretches and smooth handling of the rapid “Smelter,” which is perfect for boosting confidence. Reviewers mention the guides’ patience and their ability to keep everyone safe while having fun.
This trip is ideal for curious travelers, families, or anyone looking to try kayaking without the full-day commitment. Its affordable price makes it a good value, especially considering the quality of instruction and scenery.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for beginners or small groups wanting a quick but memorable kayaking experience.
4. Durango 3/4 Day Kayaking Trip – Lower Animas River
For those ready to spend a full day on the water, the Durango 3/4 Day Kayaking Trip offers almost five hours of paddling, with over four hours on the river. This longer trip navigates exciting Class II rapids and the rush of the Class III rapid “Sawmill,” providing a more immersive and energetic experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenery, challenge, and instruction. The guides are experienced at managing the river’s ebbs and flows, ensuring everyone stays safe and learns a few new paddling skills. This option is perfect if you’re already familiar with kayaking or want to challenge yourself further. With calmer stretches for rest and sightseeing, it balances adventure with relaxation.
Reviewers appreciate the professional guides and the opportunities to improve paddling skills. The price reflects the full-day experience, but many say it’s worth it for the increased thrill and skill development.
Bottom Line: Best suited for paddlers with some experience who want a full day of exciting river navigation.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interest, fitness level, and time constraints. For a quick family outing, the Lower Animas River 1/4 Day Rafting is perfect. If you want a more relaxed but full-day adventure, the Rafting with Lunch offers great value. For those interested in kayaking, the introductory trip suits beginners, while the full-day kayaking provides a more intense experience.
Think about your budget and energy level. Short trips are less expensive and less time-consuming, but longer trips provide a deeper immersion. Booking early is recommended, especially during the busy summer months.
Final Thoughts
Durango offers a range of water adventures that fit many interests and schedules. For a quick splash, the family-friendly raft trip is unbeatable. Want a longer, more personalized ride? The full-day rafting with lunch is a fantastic choice. For active paddlers, the kayaking trips give you control over your adventure, from a brief intro to a full-day challenge. Whatever your preference, Durango’s rivers are ready to deliver memorable moments—just remember to book early and prepare for splashy fun.