Skip to main content
9702644202View in Google Maps
InstagramFacebook
pagosaoutside.com
BOOK NOW

West Fork

5.0•206 reviews
West Fork - Image 1
1 / 16

Trip Highlights

Adventurous 1/2 Day Intermediate Whitewater
Exclusive Access to the Best Rapids on the River
Technical Whitewater, Scenic Floating and Crashing Waves
Experienced Guides and Premium Gear

Why take this Tour?

Unlock an Exclusive Pagosa Rafting Adventure on the West Fork. Discover the hidden gem of Pagosa Springs and tackle the most technical whitewater on the entire river. As the only outfitter with private access to this pristine section of the San Juan River, you get a unique rafting experience that’s both thrilling and intimate. Enjoy a perfect blend of tight boulder-filled rapids, boat soaking splashes and serene floating through breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're an experienced rafter or an adventurous first-timer, our experienced guides bring the local river knowledge, professional instruction, and quality gear to this one-of-a-kind Pagosa river adventure.. With fewer crowds and a focus on teamwork, this trip is tailored for those who seek a premium rafting experience. Book now to secure your spot on this one-of-a-kind Pagosa river adventure that only a lucky few guests get to experience each year!

Itinerary

1
Arrive at the Pagosa Outside office for check-in a few minutes before your scheduled trip time. Your guide will get you fitted with all necessary gear, including life jackets, wetsuits, splash gear, helmets and river shoes.
2
Hop in the van for a 10 mile ride upstream to the put-in where your guides will get the rafts ready to float, give a thorough Safety Briefing and cover important rafting essentials before launching.
3
Jump right into the action with tight and technical rapids one after another through the upper gorge. The pace relaxes as you catch your breath and glide through the winding meanders of the middle valley. Finish strong by crashing through the waves of the whitewater park in downtown Pagosa where your driver and van will be waiting.
4
A 1 mile shuttle gets you back to our shop, out of your wetsuit and into your dry clothes. The complimentary photos will be in your inbox shortly. Don't forget to say goodbye to your rafting crew and grab a Pagosa Outside souvenir from our retail store.

Tour Info

Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Up to 24 people
Price starts at
$129$139
Meeting Point
Pagosa Outside
Open in Google Maps→

Description

  • Duration: Half day
  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Length: 14 miles
  • Requirements: 90 lbs. min, ages 12 and up

 

 

Our favorite rafting trip in Pagosa Springs, the West Fork, is a truly exclusive adventure. With limited capacity and private access to this stretch of the San Juan River, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else. The journey kicks off with an exhilarating series of technical, boulder-filled rapids, where teamwork and adrenaline combine as you navigate the wild waters surrounded by the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains.

After the thrills of the rapids, the river transforms into a peaceful float through the serene upper West Fork San Juan River Valley. This meandering section offers stunning views of lush forests, rocky cliffs, and the chance to spot wildlife, all while you relax and recharge. The trip concludes with an unforgettable splash through the Pagosa Springs Whitewater Park, a wave-crashing finale just minutes from our downtown shop and your dry, warm clothes. Don’t miss out—capacity is limited, and this trip fills quickly. Book your West Fork rafting adventure today!

Included

  • Safety briefing and river orientation
  • All necessary Rafting equipment (life jacket, wetsuit, splash gear, river shoes and helmet)
  • Transportation to and from the river
  • Complimentary digital photo album
  • The Best River Guides in Pagosa

Excluded

  • Gratuities
  • Personal items such as sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses
  • Food and drinks

Frequently asked questions

Experienced rafters, adventurous first-timers and thrill-seekers looking for an exclusive and unique intermediate Pagosa whitewater rafting experience.
Bring sunscreen, water, and a non-cotton base layer top if you get cold. We supply you with a wetsuit, splash gear and river shoes along with a life jacket and helmet.
No prior rafting experience is required but being aggressive and adventurous is a good idea. You will be provided with a thorough safety orientation and basic rafting/paddling instruction prior to launching.
Kids should be 12 and older and over 90 lbs to participate. Following instructions, paddling aggressively and being able to stay in the boat are necessary skills.
May and June are normally the best months for rafting in Pagosa. Peaks flows usually happen in mid to late May, which means bigger waves, splashes and thrills. In June the water and weather warm for ideal rafting conditions for everyone. By July, river flows normally drop too low to raft and that's when our tubing season begins.

Things to know

Participant Requirement

Minimum age 12+ and 90 lbs. Strong and aggressive paddling is required. Need to be a competent swimmer in cold moving water with the ability to self-rescue.

Weather Considerations

The trip operates rain or shine during the summer months. We supply all the appropriate rafting gear you need to stay comfortable, but be prepared for occasional weather changes. Dress in synthetic, non-cotton layers if you want to be warmer.

River Flows on the West Fork

under 600 = too low to raft 600-800 = low 800-1500 = medium 1500-2400 = medium/high 2400-3600 = high 3600+ = too high! Current River Flows

Health Requirements

This activity is physically demanding, so participants should be in good health and free from heart conditions or other serious medical issues.

Reviews

206 Verified reviews
Scott Thomas
Google Reviews

Scott Thomas

May 30, 2026

Jimmy Lopez
Google Reviews

Jimmy Lopez

May 29, 2026

Great trip from start to finish.

Mark King
Google Reviews

Mark King

May 28, 2026

What great bunch of folks at this business. Guide was the best. 100% awesome experience. Thank You so much!

Page 1 of 17

Check Availability

From
$129
5.0
206 Verified reviews

Why book with us?

  • Book instantly directly with provider
  • Get the lowest price guarantee
  • Worry-free flexible cancellation policy
Human support:9702644202

More Experiences

Pagosa Springs River Tube Rentals
Duration
3 to 12 hours
Group Size
No limit

Pagosa Springs River Tube Rentals

Looking for the ultimate way to beat the heat and soak up the stunning scenery of Pagosa Springs? River tubing in Pagosa is the perfect summer adventure, and Pagosa Outside is your go-to destination for the best Pagosa river tube rentals. Our downtown location, right across from the famous Hot Springs, makes it easy to gear up and get right on the water. We’ve got you covered with high-quality tubes, life jackets, river shoes and expert local advice to ensure a fun and memorable experience. Tubing in Pagosa Springs offers thrills, chills and sometimes even spills along with plenty of laughs, making it the perfect activity for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike.

from
$20
RENT NOWLEARN MORE about Pagosa Springs River Tube Rentals
Deluxe Whitewater Tubing Trip
Duration
2 to 3 hours
Group Size
Up to 14

Deluxe Whitewater Tubing Trip

Dive into the refreshing waters of Pagosa Springs on a Deluxe Tubing Float Trip—your all-inclusive ticket to a thrilling self-guided river adventure. Float through the scenic downtown Pagosa Springs whitewater park and beyond, complete with a hassle-free scheduled shuttle service. We take care of all the details, providing complimentary life jackets, river shoes, lockers, and even digital photos of your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned tuber or a first-timer, our trip offers easy to intermediate rapids, ensuring a fun and engaging Pagosa river adventure for everyone. With limited spots available, secure your reservation today to experience the best of Pagosa Springs tubing. Just show up with your sense of adventure and let us handle the rest!

from
$39
Check AvailabilityLEARN MORE about Deluxe Whitewater Tubing Trip
Pagosa Springs SUP Rental
Duration
1 to 3 days
Group Size
No limit

Pagosa Springs SUP Rental

Elevate your outdoor adventure with stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals from Pagosa Outside. Perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike, our SUPs are stable, lightweight, and easy to transport—making them the ideal choice for exploring the calm waters around Pagosa Springs. Whether you’re looking for a fun workout, a relaxing day outdoors, or a new way to connect with nature, our rentals provide everything you need for a memorable paddleboarding experience. Each SUP rental comes complete with a premium paddleboard, adjustable paddle, pump, and life jacket, along with a quick orientation to help you get started with ease. With flexible pick-up and drop-off times, you can plan your paddleboarding adventure on your terms. Book your SUP rental today with Pagosa Outside and enjoy the freedom of exploring Pagosa Springs at your own pace.

from
$49
Rent NowLEARN MORE about Pagosa Springs SUP Rental
Pagosa Springs Kayak Rentals
Duration
1 to 3 days
Group Size
No limit

Pagosa Springs Kayak Rentals

Explore the stunning lakes and waterways of Pagosa Springs with our inflatable kayak rentals. Perfect for adventurers of all ages and skill levels, our kayaks are stable, lightweight, and easy to transport—making them ideal for experiencing stunning Pagosa destinations from the water. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day on the water or a self-guided adventure, our rentals provide everything you need to paddle with confidence and ease. Each rental includes a premium inflatable kayak, paddle, life jacket, and pump, plus a quick orientation to help you get familiar with the gear before heading out. With flexible pick-up and drop-off times, you can plan your adventure at your own pace. Paddle through the alpine beauty of Pagosa’s lakes or take a splashing float through the rapids of the San Juan River. Book your Pagosa Springs kayak rental today and discover why Pagosa Outside is the go-to outfitter for unforgettable outdoor experiences.

from
$49
Rent NowLEARN MORE about Pagosa Springs Kayak Rentals
people rafting on splash and dash pagosa rafting
Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Up to 36

Mesa Canyon

Create Lasting Memories on the Scenic and Family-Friendly Mesa Canyon Rafting Trip! Embark on this delightful 1/2-day adventure designed specifically for families, first-time rafters or those looking for a mellower rafting trip. This easy and enjoyable trip covers 13 miles of scenic beauty and fun rapids, making it a perfect choice for those looking to experience the thrill of rafting in a relaxed and family-friendly setting. After a brief stop halfway through the canyon, you’ll continue through awe-inspiring landscapes and splashy whitewater with Llama Falls providing a dramatic highlight on your river adventure. With your professional guide ensuring a memorable and fun-filled experience, it’s the best way to unplug, unwind and explore the beauty of Pagosa Springs. Don’t miss out—book your family friendly Pagosa rafting adventure today!

from
$129$119
Check AvailabilityLEARN MORE about Mesa Canyon
Splash & Dash
Duration
1:30 to 2 hours
Group Size
Up to 24

Splash & Dash

Dive into adventure on a Splash and Dash Rafting Trip, the perfect introduction to whitewater fun in Pagosa Springs. This streamlined 1/4-day excursion is designed for all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for those eager to experience the excitement of rafting without committing to a full day. Your journey begins with a relaxing and picturesque float that sets the stage for the exhilarating splashy rapids through the downtown whitewater park. Expect thrilling waves that will leave you soaked and smiling, especially at medium and high flows. With our complimentary digital photos, splash gear, and river shoes included, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. Book now and get ready for a splashy good time on the river!

from
$75$69
Check AvailabilityLEARN MORE about Splash & Dash