Looking for a river to run this summer? Rafters, kayakers, paddlers, tubers, explorers, waders, and kids of all ages, like the Animas River in Durango. It runs right through town and boasts waters ranging from Class V rapids (expert boaters only) on the Upper Animas to a playful Class I (novice, all abilities) above town.

Visitors can enjoy a half-day or full-day guided raft trip, take on the river solo in a kayak or canoe, or wade along its sandy and rocky banks with the kids and watch the boaters float by. Local rafting companies, guides, and outfitters will help you pull together everything you need to spend an unforgettable day on the river. Durango's Whitewater Park was built in 1989 and is the site of several fun boating events throughout the spring and summer months. The Whitewater Park is located near Santa Rita Park and the Visitor Center. Rafting outfitters offer something for just about everyone from two-hour rides to trips that last several days. (Typically, the age limit for the younger kids is four years old.) Outfitters include: Durango Rivertrippers (970-259-0289 or 800-292-2885; http://www.durangorivertrippers.com), 720 Main Avenue; Flexible Flyers Rafting (970-247-4628 or 800-346-7741; http://www.flexibleflyersrafting.com), 9th Street and the Animas River; Mountain Waters Rafting (970-259-4191 or 800-585-8243; http://www.durangorafting.com), located in Albertson's parking lot; Outlaw Rivers & Jeep Tours, (970-259-1800 or 877-259-1800; http://www.outlawtours.com), 700 Main Avenue; Peregrine River Outfitters, (970-385-7600 or 800-598-7600; http://www.peregrineriver.com), 64 Ptarmigan Lane; and Southwest Whitewater, (970-259-8313 or 800-989-9792; http://www.swwhitewater.com).