Animas River
Lower Animas River (Oxbow to Santa Rita) River Guide
The Lower Animas River flows directly through the heart of Durango, offering a unique urban whitewater experience with Class II-III rapids. This family-friendly section includes exciting rapids like Smelter, Santa Rita, Sawmill, and Pinball, interspersed with calm sections perfect for wildlife viewing and relaxation. The river passes through Durango's whitewater park, which features world-class playspots designed for kayakers. With warmer water temperatures and stunning San Juan Mountain scenery, this section is ideal for all experience levels and can be enjoyed from May through early September.
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Weather Forecast
What's the daily forecast at the put-in for Lower Animas River (Oxbow to Santa Rita)?
Current River Conditions
What's the current CFS for Lower Animas River (Oxbow to Santa Rita) based on the nearest USGS gauge?
Current Water Level
1,130CFS
Updated May 15, 9:30 AM
Ideal Water Level
500–2,500CFS
Flow Trend
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Common Questions
What paddlers most often want to know about Lower Animas River (Oxbow to Santa Rita).
What class of whitewater is the Lower Animas River through Durango?
The Lower Animas River flows through downtown Durango as Class II–III whitewater, featuring rapids like Smelter, Santa Rita, Sawmill, and Pinball interspersed with calmer sections and a world-class kayak playpark.
Is the Lower Animas River in Durango good for families?
Yes — the Lower Animas through Durango is one of the most family-friendly whitewater experiences in Colorado. The Class II–III rapids are exciting without being overwhelming, the water is warmer than alpine rivers, and the urban setting means easy access to amenities.
Do you need a permit to raft the Animas River in Durango?
No permit is required to raft the Lower Animas River through Durango. Multiple commercial outfitters operate on this section, and private boaters can access the river at several public put-ins throughout town.
What are the major rapids on the Lower Animas River through Durango?
The standout features on the Lower Animas are Smelter Rapid, Santa Rita, Sawmill, and Pinball — a series of Class II–III drops that keep the run consistently entertaining through the 8-mile stretch from Oxbow Park to Santa Rita Park.
When is the best time to raft the Lower Animas River in Durango?
The Lower Animas runs from May through early September. Peak flows and most exciting conditions occur in May and June during snowmelt from the San Juan Mountains. By August the river mellows to its most beginner-friendly level.