by Dave Sime
Photographs
courtesy Mild to Wild Rafting, Durango, Colo.
Trip
descriptions, courtesy Peregrine River Outfitters, Durango, Colo.
Durango, Colorado
Based
out of Durango, several river outfitters offer adventures through the
mountains
and canyons of the Southwest. Some, for the experienced river runners,
are thrilling whitewater adventures. Others, for first-time river
trippers and those who prefer a more mellow adventure, offer a relaxing
float with a few mildly, spine-tingling dashes through more gentle
rapids.
Whatever your choice and style of adventure, you will journey through
some
of the most spectacular scenery in the United States, and pass through
millions of years of geological history. However you do it, you’ll want
to do it again.
Tom Klema, owner of the Peregrine River Outfitters said that he was invited on a Grand Canyon rafting trip more than 20 years ago, and after several other trips that summer including the Green River in Utah, he was "hooked." From "serene to extreme" the Peregrine River Outfitters has been providing quality outfitting services to the public since 1975. They offer trips on 15 different sections of seven rivers.
Outfitters generally offer a variety of excursions, from two hour and half day to full or multiple day trips.
Animas River: One of the few remaining free flowing rivers in the west, the Animas River is a fun and refreshing addition to your travels around the Four Corners Region. Whether this is your introduction to whitewater rafting or you are a seasoned "river rat," the Animas River will surprise you with its lush and panoramic views and its challenging descents.
Upper Animas River: With towering peaks rising virtually from the banks of the river, the Upper Animas is well established as a benchmark of the alpine whitewater experience. This trip is for serious whitewater enthusiasts only, and previous experience with paddling is required. Beginning in historic Silverton, Colo., the trip runs through the rugged San Juan mountains paralleling the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Class III, IV and V rapids provide exhilaration that match the spectacular mountain scenery. The trip ends in a most appropriate manner with a relaxing and scenic ride on the train back to Durango.
Dolores River: Born amid the rugged peaks of the San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colo., the Dolores River has carved a magnificent gorge exposing a colorful panorama of the earth’s geological history. Beginning in the stately Ponderosa Pines in the Upper Dolores Canyon, the trip provides rollicking whitewater excitement that culminates in the notorious Class IV drop of Snaggletooth Rapid.
Slickrock Canyon: Slickrock Canyon of the Dolores is a unique and intimate journey through country that is often compared with Glen Canyon, now lost in the depths of Lake Powell. With cottonwood trees framed in sandstone alcoves as if enshrined, and massive rounded "slickrock" walls at river level, this magical canyon has been proposed not only for "wild and scenic" protection, but also wilderness status.
Gateway and the Lower Canyons of the Dolores: Just beyond Slickrock Canyon, the Dolores flows lazily across the Paradox Valley, and then enters Carpenter Canyon before meeting its largest tributary, the San Miguel River. Upstream from Gateway, Colo., is Maverick Canyon that contains Dinosaur tracks, spring fed pools, and Juanita Arch—one of the largest natural arches in the world.
Gunnison Gorge: "Gold Medal" trout fishing punctuated by dozens of Class III rapids provide an exceptional whitewater trip. A likely prospect to receive "Wild and Scenic" protection, the Gunnison flows through a canyon displaying some of the oldest rock on earth.
Dominguez/Escalante Canyons of the Gunnison: A placid stretch of river with moderate rapids suitable for novices in inflatable kayaks. The trip is highlighted by the hike to the spring fed pools and pictographs on Big Dominguez Canyon.
Utah San Juan River Avenue of the Ancients: Located just north of Monument Valley in Southern Utah, this beautiful desert stream provides ready access to the awe inspiring ruins and petroglyphs of the centuries-old Ancestral Puebloan Indian culture.
Alpine San Juan: Located near Pagosa Springs, this river adventure offers great views of the towering San Juan mountains. The beauty of the remote alpine canyon country make this one of the finest floats in the Southwest.
Ruby and Horsethief Canyons of the Colorado: This placid section of river is ideal for families with its temperate water in late spring and summer, and remote expansive camp sites. Several side canyons give the opportunity for exploring the geological wonder of this area.
What to bring on a partial day or full day trip: nylon or synthetic blend shorts (fast drying), T-shirt, bandanna, lightweight long sleeve shirt*, lightweight pants*, sun hat*, pile jacket and/or windbreaker, canvas tennis shoes or aquatic sandals/aqua socks, waterproof poncho or rain suit (a quality rainsuit is a long term investment in your comfort and safety), sunscreen*, insect repellent, sunglasses, eyeglass retainer, camera and film, water bottle and small day pack.
Peregrine River Outfitters, 64 Ptarmigan Lane, Durango CO, 81301. 1-800-598-7600 or 970 385-7600 (local). www.peregrineriver.com
Mild to
Wild Rafting,
Durango, Colo. 1-800-567-6742. 970 247-4789. www.mild2wildrafting.com