Private Animas River Paddleboard Tour
Paddle upstream, then float back on the Animas River
Duration
2–3 hrs
Ideal For
Up to 6 people
Includes
SUP gear, guide, transport
Highlights
- Learn kneeling, standing, remounting and kayak-style paddling techniques
- Paddle upstream with breaks in calm river eddies
- Float downstream after your group’s chosen turnaround point
- Customize the pace and enjoy a snack break on the water
- Explore a quieter stretch of river while staying on your board
What's Included
- Stand-up paddleboards with kayak-style conversion capability
- Paddling instruction
- Personal flotation devices
- 20-liter daypacks
- Snacks
- Transportation from properties within 5 miles of Durango’s city center or an established meeting location
- Medically trained stand-up paddleboarding guide
Know before you go
- Ages 8+ only; participants under 18 require a parent or legal guardian
- Requires moderate upper-body strength and cardiovascular endurance for consistent paddling upstream for 1–1.5 hours
- Requires the ability to swim up to 30 feet while wearing a personal flotation device
- A water-carrying capacity of at least 1 liter is required
- Remain on your board and use river eddies for breaks; shore access is not permitted
- Operates in mid-to-late summer and fall when the Animas River is not at high flow
- Runs rain or shine when conditions are safe
Cancellation Policy
Cancel 30+ days ahead for a 100% refund minus a $20 processing fee; 15–29 days: 80% minus $20; 7–14 days: 50% minus $20; 0–6 days: no refund. If the operator cancels before the tour starts due to safety conditions, receive a 100% refund.
FAQs
Bring a rain jacket, swimsuit or clothes you can swim in, layers, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, snacks, and 1–2 liters of water. Wear sandals or water shoes; athletic clothing is preferred for this paddleboard tour.
Use the bathrooms and changing rooms at the river put-in before launching. There are no other facilities until you return.
Some paddleboards can accommodate an adult and child. Small child-size boards are also available, but the upstream portion requires consistent paddling effort.