May and June are the prime time for whitewater rafting in Pagosa. Warmer weather and earlier peak flows than the rest of the state makes Pagosa Colorado’s early season whitewater destination. River flows typically peak in late May or early June and rafting enthusiasts know that this is when to find the biggest whitewater thrills. We run guided raft trips on the San Juan and Piedra Rivers.
Once the flows in the San Juan drop below 400 cfs, we shift to our “Late Season Trips” and whitewater tubing season opens
River Bend – ¼ Day
“Splash and Dash” This quick intro to rafting is a great trip for families just testing the waters or groups on a limited time budget. A relaxing start a few miles above Pagosa is followed by fun splashy man-made rapids right through downtown. This trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours, including transportating time to and from the river, depending on water levels.
$34 – adults $29 – kids 10 and under *50 lb min. at high flows, 30 lb min. otherwise
Mesa Canyon – ½ Day
“A Family Favorite” Our most popular raft trip launches just a few minutes upstream from our shop. Splashy whitewater, gorgeous scenery, and abundant wildlife make this half-day escape from civilization a fun float for the whole family. Bring water and a snack for the short stop halfway through the canyon. This trip takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on water levels.
$59 – adults $45 – kids 10 and under *50 lb min. at high flows, 30 lb min. otherwise
West Fork – 1/3 Day
“High Country Adventure” The action begins immediately after putting on at our private river access just above the confluence of the East and West Forks. Smaller boats and aggressive paddling are required for a safe descent of this technical and busy section of river. We are the only company that runs this exciting stretch of river. When we started offering these trips in 2010, almost every seat on every trip was filled. We run these trips in a limited capacity for safety and to minimize impact, so book early to reserve your spot!
$59 - all gear included *90 lb. weight min
Upper Piedra – Full Day
“Wild and Scenic” This early-season gem and elusive local favorite is being considered for a “Wild and Scenic” designation. Commercial rafting trips on the Piedra are few and far between which adds to the pristine wilderness feeling. In 2010 only 190 commercial customers rafted on the Piedra. The trip starts on a low volume creek that bumps and scrapes its way through some of the most beautiful gorges and canyons you’ve ever seen. As you travel downstream, small tributaries and side creeks cascade in, increasing the flow, speed, and intensity. Two large rapids guard the exit from this secretive southwestern jewel.
$150 includes all required gear and lunch. Previous experience recommended.
*To run the Upper Piedra, the First Fork Road has to be open to the midway point and flows neeed to be at least 800 CFS. We typically offer only “Full Piedra” trips until the water levels drop later in the season.
Lower Piedra – Full Day
“Rowdy and Remote” Spanish explorers named the Piedra “El Rio de la Piedra Parada” or “The River of the Stone Wall,” after the towering walls of the First Box Canyon that rise 1000 feet from river level. The action starts early in this committing, sheer walled gorge with steep drops stacked in rapid succession. The gradient of the river averages 50 feet per mile throughout the run, but steepens to over 80 in the Lower Box. Adding to the challenge are two mudslides that push boulders into the constricted channel. The crux rapid of the run, “Eye of the Needle,” is most often portaged to increase the odds of a successful trip through Lucifers Rapid directly below. After a lunch stop at a natural hot springs, the intensity subsides and the river slides through fun intermediate rapids on its way out of this unforgettable canyon.
$150 includes all required gear and lunch. Previous experience required.
*To run the Lower Piedra, the First Fork Road has to be open and flows should be between 500 and 2800 CFS. We typically offer only “Full Piedra” trips until the water levels drop later in the season.
Full Piedra – Both Box Canyons
“A Rafting Marathon” This is the trip our guides hope you choose. An early start, excellent fitness, and a wild sense of adventure are required to run both sections of the Piedra in one day. You’d be hard pressed to find a more remote and rewarding single day whitewater rafting trip. Sleep well and eat your Wheaties for this full day!
$200 includes all required gear and lunch. Advanced fitness and previous experience required.
*6 people are needed to make any Piedra trip go. We try to book Thurs. and Sun. trips so smaller groups can combine.
*If you have any doubts about anyone in your group being ready for the Piedra, we recommend taking a “warm-up” trip on the West Fork. You and your guide can use the trip to decide if you are ready for a more difficult piece of water. Previous Piedra clients say they really appreciated taking a “warm-up” trip on the West Fork, the day before, to get their group dialed, paddling strong, and prepared for the Piedra.
San Juan Full Day
“Go With the Flow” We cater our San Juan full day trips to your needs. Depending on water and experience levels, we run the sections of river that are the best fit for your fun and safety. Give us a call and let us design the trip itinerary and lunch menu to best suit your needs.
$99 – adults $79 – kids 10 and under
Custom Raft Trips
“Charter Your Own Adventure” A private guide, raft, and shuttle will take you on an exclusive San Juan adventure. Our most popular option, the “Early Bird Wildlife Tour,” is a interpretive, early morning float through Mesa Canyon to spot birds and wildlife and learn more about the area. The “Sunset Cruise” is a mellow evening float above town to watch wildlife coming to the river for an evening drink. Give us your unique idea and we’ll take care of all the details.
Trips start at $400 for up to 4 people.
Mini Raft Madness!
“Small Boat = Big Excitement” We call it rodeo rafting. Grab a friend for an unforgettable trip in a 9 1/2 foot whitewater raft. Two paddlers and a guide run aggressive lines, surf, spin, and play their way down the river. The possibility of having “Out of Boat Experience” is likely, so make sure you’re up to the challenge.
$219 – for two adults *Available on select West Fork and Mesa Canyon Trips
