I spent weeks comparing Upper Animas River rafting outfitters. Reading reviews on TripAdvisor and checking certifications was crucial. Ultimately, I chose “Durango River Runners” based on their excellent safety record and glowing customer testimonials. Their guides’ experience and commitment to sustainability sealed the deal for me. I felt confident in my choice from the start.
My Research and Selection Process
Choosing the right outfitter for my Upper Animas River rafting trip was surprisingly involved! I started by scouring the internet, looking at websites for various companies. I read countless online reviews on sites like TripAdvisor and Yelp, paying close attention to comments about safety, guide expertise, and overall customer satisfaction. I also checked for certifications and licenses, ensuring the outfitter was reputable and adhered to industry safety standards. I was particularly interested in finding an outfitter with experienced guides who were knowledgeable about the river and its rapids. I even went so far as to check out their social media presence, looking for recent trip photos and videos to get a feel for the overall experience. I compared prices, of course, but ultimately, safety and the quality of the guides were my top priorities. I emailed a few outfitters with specific questions about their equipment, safety procedures, and group sizes. The responses I received varied greatly; some were prompt and detailed, while others were vague and impersonal. This process really helped me narrow down my choices. In the end, I selected “Animas Adventures” based on their comprehensive safety protocols, glowing customer testimonials, and the prompt and helpful responses I received to my inquiries. Their commitment to environmental sustainability also played a significant role in my decision. I felt confident that I’d chosen a reputable and responsible outfitter that would prioritize my safety and enjoyment throughout the entire trip. The detailed information available online and the responsive customer service made the decision-making process much smoother than I initially anticipated.
Preparing for the Rapids
Before we launched, I meticulously checked my gear⁚ life vest, helmet, paddle. Our guide, Javier, gave a thorough safety briefing, covering paddling techniques, potential hazards, and emergency procedures. I felt completely prepared and confident thanks to his clear instructions and reassuring demeanor. It was a great start to the adventure!
Preparing for the Rapids
Gear Check and Safety Briefing
Our guide, whose name I believe was Mateo, first had us gather around for a comprehensive safety briefing. He was incredibly thorough, explaining everything from proper paddling techniques – high angle paddling versus low angle, how to brace ourselves in the raft, and what to do if we capsized – to the potential hazards we might encounter on the Upper Animas. He showed us pictures of different rapids, highlighting key features and explaining the strategies we’d use to navigate them safely. He emphasized the importance of listening to his commands and working together as a team. Mateo then went through our personal gear – each of us had to show him our life vests, ensuring they were properly adjusted, and he checked our helmets to make sure they fit snugly. He explained the purpose of each piece of equipment and how to use it effectively. He even showed us how to properly hold and use our paddles, demonstrating different strokes for various river conditions. He emphasized the importance of communication within the raft, urging us to communicate any concerns or discomfort immediately. Mateo’s calm and reassuring demeanor helped alleviate any anxieties I had. He made sure everyone understood the procedures for rescuing someone who fell out of the raft and emphasized the importance of staying calm in emergency situations. The whole briefing took about 45 minutes, and I felt much better equipped and prepared for the rapids after his detailed explanation and demonstration. It was clear Mateo’s priority was our safety and enjoyment, and his thoroughness instilled a sense of confidence in me.
Conquering the Rapids
The Upper Animas River lived up to its reputation! I felt an adrenaline rush tackling “The Narrows,” a rapid that tested our teamwork. Despite a near-miss, we navigated the churning water successfully. The excitement was incredible! It was exhilarating and terrifying all at once.
Conquering the Rapids
The Thrills and Spills of the Upper Animas
My heart pounded in my chest as we approached “The Narrows,” a notorious rapid on the Upper Animas. Our guide, a seasoned veteran named Jake, barked instructions with a calm authority that somehow managed to both reassure and excite me. The raft pitched and yawed, buffeted by the churning water. I gripped the sides, knuckles white, feeling the raw power of the river. A wave crashed over the bow, soaking me to the bone, but the thrill was intoxicating. We expertly navigated a series of smaller rapids leading up to “The Narrows,” each one a test of our teamwork and Jake’s skill. Then came the moment of truth. The raft plunged into the maelstrom, a chaotic ballet of water and rock. For a terrifying instant, I thought we were going to capsize. I felt a rush of icy water as a rogue wave slammed into the side of the raft, sending a spray of water high into the air. But Jake, with incredible skill and experience, expertly steered us through the treacherous currents, emerging on the other side, slightly wetter but exhilarated and alive. The feeling of accomplishment was immense. It was a true test of courage, teamwork, and the power of nature. The rest of the journey was equally thrilling, filled with a series of smaller, but still exciting, rapids. Each one was a unique challenge, demanding our full attention and cooperation. We laughed, we screamed, and we cheered as we conquered each obstacle. It was an unforgettable experience, a thrilling ride that pushed me to my limits and left me breathless with excitement.
The Scenic Beauty
I was awestruck by the stunning scenery! Towering canyon walls, painted in shades of red and brown, framed the river. Sunlight dappled the water, creating shimmering patterns. I spotted a majestic bald eagle soaring overhead and several playful otters frolicking along the banks. The natural beauty was truly unforgettable.
The Scenic Beauty
Breathtaking Views and Wildlife Sightings
The Upper Animas River trip wasn’t just about the rapids; the breathtaking scenery stole the show! I’d heard about the canyon walls, but seeing them in person was something else entirely. Massive, imposing cliffs, sculpted by millennia of erosion, rose hundreds of feet above us, their surfaces a tapestry of ochre, rust, and deep maroon. The sunlight filtering through the narrow canyon created dramatic light and shadow effects, constantly changing the landscape’s appearance. The river itself was a spectacle – crystal-clear water, reflecting the vibrant hues of the canyon walls like a living mirror. I remember one particularly stunning stretch where the water was so calm it looked like polished glass, perfectly reflecting the sky above. But the visual feast didn’t end there. Wildlife sightings punctuated the journey, adding an extra layer of wonder. I spotted a family of deer grazing peacefully on the riverbank, their coats blending seamlessly with the surrounding vegetation. A flash of blue caught my eye – a bright blue heron standing motionless, a patient hunter amidst the reeds. And then, the highlight of the day, a magnificent bald eagle soared overhead, its powerful wings effortlessly carrying it on the thermals. It circled above us for what seemed like an eternity, a majestic symbol of the untamed beauty of the Animas River canyon. The whole experience was incredibly moving; a powerful reminder of the raw, unspoiled beauty of nature.
Lunch on the River
Our midday meal, provided by Durango River Runners, was a welcome feast. I devoured a delicious sandwich, fresh fruit, and cookies. Enjoying this picnic lunch, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Animas River canyon, was a truly memorable experience. The perfect mid-trip refueling stop!
Lunch on the River
A Delicious Meal with a View
Our lunch stop was idyllic. Picture this⁚ the sun dappling through the canyon walls, the Animas River murmuring gently beside us, and a delicious spread laid out on a rocky outcrop. Our guide, whose name I believe was Jake, had expertly chosen a perfectly flat, sun-drenched spot. The picnic basket, provided by Durango River Runners, was overflowing with goodies. There were hearty sandwiches filled with locally sourced meats and cheeses – I opted for the roast turkey and swiss, which was absolutely divine. The bread was fresh and crusty, and the fillings were generous and flavorful. Alongside the sandwiches, there was a colorful array of fresh fruit – juicy oranges, crisp apples, and plump grapes. I particularly enjoyed the sweet, ripe strawberries, a perfect counterpoint to the savory sandwiches. And then, the pièce de résistance⁚ homemade cookies! Soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies and oatmeal raisin cookies, warm and comforting. I savored every bite, feeling completely rejuvenated after our morning’s adventure. The water bottles were chillingly cold, a refreshing contrast to the warm sun. We all chatted and laughed, sharing stories and experiences while we ate. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a communal experience, a moment of shared joy and relaxation amidst the breathtaking beauty of the canyon. This perfectly planned lunch break was a highlight of the entire trip, a delicious interlude perfectly complementing the thrilling rapids and stunning scenery of the Upper Animas River.
Reflecting on the Experience
My Overall Impression and Recommendations
My Upper Animas River rafting trip with Durango River Runners exceeded all expectations! The thrill of the rapids, the stunning scenery, and the exceptional guides made it unforgettable. I highly recommend this adventure to anyone seeking an adrenaline rush and breathtaking natural beauty. It was truly a perfect day!