Basics
- Location:
- Put-in points are in and near Durango
- Class:
- Class I to III
- River Length
- 5 - 12 miles (8 - 19 km)
- Time:
- 1/2 Day or Full Day
- Season:
- May to August
Description
The Animas River begins high in the San Juan Mountains near Silverton, and descends rapidly south towards Durango. From here, the "River of Lost Souls" continues south at a slower pace before joining the San Juan River in northern New Mexico, having dropped 8,000 feet in elevation from its headwaters in just over 100 miles.
Situated between Durango and the New Mexico border, the lower Animas is gentler and less dangerous than its wild upper section, while still offering some exciting rapids that keep things interesting. The slower pace means rafters will have a chance to appreciate the scenery, as the mountains of Colorado give way to the desert of the Southwest. The area is also steeped in mining history, with a number of ruins visible from the river. Wildlife can often be seen on the Lower Animas as well.
Put-in points are in or near Durango, and trips generally end just north of Cedar Hill, New Mexico.
River Details
Class:
Class I to III
River Length
5 - 12 miles (8 - 19 km)
Time
1/2 Day or Full Day
Season:
May to August
Guides Available?
Yes
