About Mountain Waters Rafting
Mountain Waters Rafting has been Durango's trusted whitewater outfitter since 1981, making them one of the longest-running rafting companies in southwestern Colorado. Operating from their downtown Durango office on West College Drive, they've guided over four decades of visitors down the Animas River and its tributaries, building an impeccable safety record and a reputation for high-quality guided experiences that consistently earn top ratings from guests. Their longevity in a competitive market speaks to the caliber of their guides and the strength of their river programs.
Trip options span the full spectrum of whitewater difficulty: family-friendly Lower Animas floats that welcome children as young as four, half-day Upper Animas runs through Rockwood Gorge with Class III–IV rapids, and multi-day wilderness expeditions on the Piedra and Dolores Rivers for experienced paddlers seeking remote canyon country. Beyond rafting, Mountain Waters has expanded into guided Jeep trail tours in the San Juan high country, zipline adventures, and introductory rock climbing sessions — making them a one-stop shop for Durango adventure seekers. All rafting trips include wetsuits, splash jackets, helmets, and PFDs.
What sets Mountain Waters apart from Durango's other rafting outfitters is their 40-plus years of institutional knowledge and their diversified adventure portfolio. Their guides hold swift-water rescue and wilderness first aid certifications, many with over a decade of experience on these specific rivers. The company also partners with the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for popular Rail & Raft combination packages that pair a morning train ride with an afternoon river trip. For visitors who want a proven, established outfitter with the deepest roots in the Durango adventure community, Mountain Waters is the gold standard.
