Durango's Top Summer Adventures - Rafting, Jeeping, & Mesa Verde National Park
Those seeking to get on the river for the first time or those looking to get their white water season off to a serene start, should consider rivers we would classify as “milder” options. These rivers typically have the Class I “moving water” to comfortably float down the river, some Class II “splashes” that get your legs wet just over the side of the boat, and potentially some Class III “wet and fun” that get you soaked head to toe! This is a great way to experience white water rafting in Colorado without getting in over your head. A mild option we provide in Colorado is the Lower Animas in Durango:
Ready for the next step up when it comes to white water rafting in Colorado? Steer towards a more intermediate river. These usually provide Class I “moving water”, Class II “splashes”, Class III “wet and fun”, and even some Class IV “big drops” which jump start your heart as you paddle through exciting whitewater. These rivers will keep you excited while you are able to take in some incredible scenery. These rivers can be more technical than the milder options, and they usually require a little more work as the guests must be willing to paddle. The payoff is very much worth it! The Upper Piedra River near Pagosa Springs is a great intermediate option:
Looking for the ultimate adventure that will make the hair on your arms stand up and your heart pump quickly? Then jump on the wild options of white water rafting in Colorado! The two rivers in Colorado we offer that we classify as high adventure are the Lower Piedra in Pagosa Springs and the Upper Animas in the Silverton area. The Upper Animas at high water, many consider to be the most difficult commercially run trip in the United States! Both of these areas provide Class II “splashes”, Class III “wet and fun”, Class IV “big drops” and Class V rapids that will get your adrenaline pumping and often need to be portaged. Both rivers you must be 16 years old and up and also in good health and physically fit. At Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours, we also take extra precautions on these rivers such as smaller guest to guide customer ratios, guides with more river miles than required by the state with trip leaders averaging 5,000 river miles for the Upper Animas, and have extra certifications such as wilderness safety. Other precautions we take include extra safety boats and required pre trip wetsuit fittings and practice swims. These rivers will leave you on top of the world!
On our Durango Jeep Tour you will see numerous wildflowers, high-alpine meadows, and avalanche gullies. Following the La Plata River (meaning “Silver” in Spanish) to La Plata City, an old mining town established in 1875, you’ll discover the remnants of old mining claims. These include a tall intact chimney left from the crew quarters, the framework of old cabins, and tailing piles from actual mining areas. Then, you’ll continue to the peak of Kennebec Pass at 12,000 feet above sea level (also above tree-line).
Explore Colorado’s most preserved mining sites and immerse yourself in the history of the American West. Tour into the Tundra high above Silverton, a world away from the stresses of modern life with waterfalls, mountain wildlife, beautiful vistas and Colorado’s famous wildflowers. A great trip for the whole family and kids are extra entertained with our Mild to Wild scavenger hunt. Find the items on the checklist and get some fool’s gold!
A true Durango vacation is not complete without a day at Mesa Verde National Park. Relive history on our Mesa Verde Discovery Tour. Discover the rich culture and architecture of the Ancestral Puebloans on a small, guided interpretive tour. Explore Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree Cliff Dwellings. Take in 700 years of history on the Mesa Loop. Explore the museum and Visitor’s Center and enjoy a delicious, deli-style lunch.
Durango Colorado | Parks & Recreation | National Gold Medal Award Winner
Durango Parks and Recreation National Gold Medal Award
D&SNGR - Rafting & Hiking the Colorado Wilderness
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad train provides access to over 300 square miles of Rocky Mountain wilderness, and access to the longest stretch of class 5 rapids for white water rafting in the United States.
upper Animas river rafting (level 4)
level 4 rafting through the upper Animas river near Rockwood, Colorado. Sponsored by Mountain Waters Rafting. Filmed by Nick Lund. Thanks Zach Hofer for the GoPro
Spotlight: Experience Upper Animas River Whitewater Rafting with Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours
The Upper Animas River in southwest Colorado is one of the more infamous sections of whitewater in the US. A tight and technical river, the Upper Animas whitewater is not your average river trip.
Conquer continuous rapids and explore 14,000 foot peaks in the most spectacular and entertaining 26 miles of whitewater in Colorado. Considered to be one of the toughest commercially run trips in the United States, the Upper Animas river brings adventure enthusiasts from around the world to Durango, Colorado. Cascading creeks and waterfalls pour into the river as you face continuous sections of whitewater that leave your arms shaking from the constant paddling. Travel on the historic Durango & Silverton Train through the heart of Colorado’s largest wilderness area to access this adventure, a unique and rewarding way to start and/or end your adventure. All participants must be strong swimmers, in great physical condition, and able to paddle as the boat bounces, spins, and submerges! Mandatory pre-trip safety orientation includes a practice raft trip with a swim through a Class III rapid!
Looking for a great wilderness trip with lots of technical whitewater, but not quite the intensity of high-water runoff in June? As water levels lower in mid summer, so does the difficulty of the trip. Age recommendations drop to 14 for the Needleton Section and the trip lowers in intensity from extreme to advanced with one portage for those rafters who are under age 16 or do not want to run the bigger rapid. The ability to walk around the Class V rapids at more moderate water levels allows a larger spectrum of river enthusiasts to experience this magical Colorado rafting trip.
cascade creek waterfalls Durango Colorado
jesse adam criss
Upper Animas River Rafting with Mild to Wild
Start living you adventure by commenting and sharing! The Upper Animas brings adventure enthusiasts from around the world to Durango, Colorado. It is the quintessential whitewater experience! At high water, many consider Upper Animas River rafting to be the most difficult commercially run trip in the United States. 14,000 foot peaks rise from the banks of the river as you face continuous sections of whitewater that leave your arms shaking from the constant paddling. Cascading creeks and waterfalls pour into the river as you tackle the exciting rapids.
Colorado Campin'
One week exploring our favorite parts of Colorado: Mount Princeton, San Isabel National Forest, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Silverton, Animas Forks.
River Rafting in Durango
River rafting in Durango, CO. in July 2014 with the wife. Jon was our guide with Mild 2 Wild White Water Rafting.
Music by: Arctic Monkeys and Sombear
The Animas River through Durango, CO
Durango is one of Colorado's most popular Tourist Destinations and for good reason: a historic downtown surrounded by spectacular mountains with a playful river running free through it all. A trip down this, the Animas river through Durango is a must see attraction for anyone visiting Southwestern Colorado. Visit CROA.org for a full listing of the finest outfitters on the Animas River and beyond.
Adventure starts with the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Silverton Ice Pirates 4K
Book now! durangotrain.com
In Fall, Winter & Early Spring….
Take The Train To Cascade Canyon ….A Stunning Scenic Journey Through Soaring Colorado Rocky Mountain Peaks Above A Clear Running River In The Comfort Of Heated Cabins.
On Select October Weekends…Ride The Peanuts The Great Pumpkin Patch Express And Pick The Perfect Pumpkin.
Create A New Family Memory, On Select Trains To Cascade Canyon ….You Can Cut Down Your Very Own Christmas Tree.
From Late November Until The Beginning Of January Take The Family On A Magical Journey To The North Pole To Pick Up Santa On The Polar Express.
And Experience The View From Ten Thousand Feet Blazing Your Own Trails On A Snowmobile Through The San Juan National Forest With Ice Pirates Snow Mobile Tours.
In Late Spring And Through The Summer…
Take The Train To Silverton And Back To Take In Breathtaking Views Untouched By Time…..
Passengers Have A Choice Between Several Classes Of Service, Including Standard Coaches…Open Air Gondolas,….Glass Topped Observation Cars And A Variety Of Parlor Cars
Or Create A Whole New Experience By Taking A Combination Of Both Train And Motor Coach To Discover Why It’s Called The Million Dollar Highway.Book your adventure now!
Begin your adventure as you depart Durango aboard the 9:45am Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad steam train bound for the wilderness location of the Cascade Canyon Wye. You will arrive at Cascade at 11:45am and have 45 minutes to eat lunch or explore the area along the river. After an hour train ride returning toward Durango, you will detrain at the Rockwood flagstop to meet your shuttle driver. You will be shuttled to the Ice Pirates Snowmobile Tours outpost on Molas Pass where you will be matched with your snowmobile and begin your 2-hour tour with experienced guides. But the fun's not over yet! Arrrgh! Receive your Ice Pirates Booty Bag for snacks and hot cocoa as you wind down and share your stories. You will be shuttled back to Durango to arrive at the D&S Parking Lot around 6:15pm.
Plus You Can Make The Train Ride Only Part Of Your Adventure…..
Jump Off And Go Soaring Along World Famous Zip Lines At Soaring Tree Top Adventures….
Go Four Wheeling Through The Back Country In A Jeep Or A-T-V
Catch A Raft For A Ride Down The Lower Animas With Mountain Waters Rafting…
Ride A Horse Through The Wilderness With San Juan Sky Outfitters….
How About Going Right Through A Mountain By Visiting A Historic Silver Mine?
On Select Weekends Grab A Pint From A Local Brewery On The Brew Train Or Sip A Select Colorado Wine On Wine & Rails.
All Of These Amazing Adventures Start With The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad And Museum.
Patsy's Travels: United Campground, Durango, CO 7 of 9
The Water Fountain in Vail Village, Colorado
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Alpine skiing, or downhill skiing, is the sport or recreation of sliding down snow-covered hills on skis with fixed-heel bindings. It is characterized by the requirement for mechanical assistance getting to the top of the hill, since the equipment does not allow efficient walking or hiking, unlike cross-country skis which use free-heel bindings. It is typically practiced at ski resorts which provide services such as ski lifts, artificial snow making and grooming, first aid, and restaurants. Back-country skiers use alpine skiing equipment to ski off the marked pistes, in some cases with the assistance of snowmobiles, helicopters or snowcats. Alpine skiing has been an event at the Winter Olympic Games since 1936 (except for the 1940 games).[1]
Vail, Colorado, is a small town at the base of Vail Mountain, home of the massive Vail Ski Resort. Set within White River National Forest, the town is a gateway for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. It’s also a summertime destination for golfing, hiking and cultural festivals. Gore Creek, popular for fly fishing, runs directly through the town center.
Elevation: 8,150′
Weather: 33°F (1°C), Wind S at 7 mph (11 km/h), 52% Humidity
Zip code: 81657
Local time: Tuesday 9:12 PM
Population: 5,483 (2017)
BLAZE NEW TRAILS
While Vail’s village has been buzzing with activity all summer long, up on the mountain there’s a different kind of excitement in the air. Trenches are being dug, pipes are being laid, and the groundwork for the largest snowmaking enhancement project in North America is well under way.
The first phase of our multi-year snowmaking expansion project will deliver:
The most legendary early season experience
A more predictable opening date
A better late season
You only get one start to a season. Never settle for anything less than the most legendary early season experience.
Vail is known for it’s upscale amenities and massive ski resort, which is the largest in the state. The town is located on both sides of I-70, about two hours west of Denver. The Austrian-modeled ski village has a lot of charm and one of the nicest around.
The Vail Valley offers much to do and see year round. In addition to skiing, ice skating and snow tubing are available, as are family-friendly festivals filled with music, food, and fun.
Camping, rafting, hiking and fishing are all extremely popular activities during summer. There are several 4×4 trails around town which are great way to take in the beautiful Colorado landscape.
Main Attractions
Vail Ski Resort – With over 5000 acres to ski on, there’s a new run or powder stash to find. Biking and hiking are popular on the mountain in the summer.
Biking:
Traverse across Vail’s epic back bowls on the Two Elk Trail. With two trailheads to start from, an East and West, this is one the best mountain biking trails in Eagle County. It’s also a great hiking trail, though a bit long at 11.8 miles.
Ride the paved 9 mile trail from near the summit of Vail Pass down to Copper Mountain. It’s called the Vail Pass Bike Path.
Camping:
Between Minturn and Red Cliff, take County Rd 707 to Halfmoon CG or primitive car camp anywhere on that road. It’s a bumpy road though.
Take US 24 south of Vail just past Red Cliff, you’ll see Hornsilver Campground.
Just after Hornsilver CG take a right on Homestake Rd to Gold Park CG or primitive car camp anywhere along that smooth road. It’s ten miles back to the reservoir.
If you continue south on Hwy 24 past Hornsilver, you’ll past Yoder Gulch Rd. Take a right and and pull over at any spot on that road.
Keep going on Hwy 24 and you’ll hit Camp Hale Memorial CG just before Tennessee Pass.
There’s also primitive camping in the wilderness north of Vail. Take exit 173 onto North Frontage Rd. At traffic circle, stay on N Frontage Rd. Turn left onto Davos Trail and a quick right on Cortina Ln. Follow that for 0.5 miles then stay slight right onto Buffehr. Follow that into the woods where camping is everywhere. Red and White Mountain is the area.
Montana Ranches For Sale Fiddler Creek Hunting Recreation Beartooth Wilderness
Montana ranches for sale brings us the 345-acre Fiddler Creek Ranch located next to the Beartooth wilderness this ranch offers exceptional hunting for elk, whitetail deer and mule deer all in a gated, private location.
The adjoining million-acre Absaroka-Beartooth wilderness contains all 28 of the highest peaks in Montana including the 12,970-foot Granite Peak which is Montana's highest peak. Nearby East Rosebud offers tremendous hiking in one of Montana's most popular trails, the Beaten Path, along with great high mountain lakes fishing.
The nearby town of Red Lodge plays host to Red Lodge mountain ski resort as well as the Beartooth Pass and northeast entrance into Yellowstone National Park. Journalist Charles Kuralt called the Beartooth Pass the most scenic highway in America.
Fishing opportunities nearby are abundant with the Stillwater river, west Rosebud Creek, the Yellowstone river and Rock Creek all just a short distance away from the ranch.
Montana's largest city, Billings, is just under one hour away offering the State's top medical care along with Billings Logan International airport and a host of cultural, shopping and dining options.
The hunting on the ranch is absolutely superb offering upland birds, trophy Rocky mountain elk and nice populations of both whitetail deer and mule deer.
Hiking opportunities are abundant with two of the State's premier recreation drainages in West Rosebud and East Rosebud very close by.
The closest small town is Absarokee, Montana which is located right on the Stillwater river, a blue-ribbon fishery, and it is approximately 20 minutes from the ranch. Adventure Whitewater, one of Montana's top rafting companies is also located in Absarokee and rafts on the Stillwater and Yellowstone rivers for the thrill-seekers in the family.
The ranch is approximately 90 minutes away from the northeast entry to Yellowstone National Park located in Cooke City, Montana. The Beartooth Pass is closed in the winter but the Cooke City area of the Yellowstone National Park is accessible through Gardiner, Montana all winter long and is one of the premier snowmobiling destinations in North America.
There are several great locations on the ranch to build a home, or guest houses, that all have phenomenal Beartooth mountain views. Septic permits are run through Montana DNRC, as are the water well approvals. Stillwater County would be the authority in charge of issuing building permits.
Several forks of Fiddler creek run through the ranch creating a nice riparian corridor and there is significant dry land hay ground that should produce great results from a first cutting in June. This makes the ranch well suited to supporting horses.
If you would like more information regarding the Fiddler Creek ranch then simply contact Rick Eisen of Legacy Lands, LLC at 406-223-6872 or visit their website at
Haviland Lake and Bakers Bridge near Durango CO Trip
Weekend out camping and spending time at Lake Haviland and at Bakers Bridge. We brought paddle boards, kayaks, and a raft out to the lake. The bridge was a 50 foot jump. Thanks for the great summer everyone! Don't forget to commet, like and subscribe!
Music:
On Our Way - The Royal Concept
Cascade Creek Trail , Durango Colorado | Jenn Su
#cascadecreektrail #durangocolorado
This was a wonderful trail for nature lovers like our family. This is not the usual hike that we do as a family but I was so surprise on how me and my son liked it. It was so peaceful.
If you will notice I didn't do my introduction at the beginning of our day because my husband pissed me off that morning. LOL But walking in that trail made me calm and I didn't even notice that I'm way ahead of my boys because I'm enjoying it so much.
We even found a spot where we can camp maybe before summer ends or during fall season. But for me, the weather when we hiked it was already perfect for camping. We will definitely go back there to see the 5 falls because we just hiked up to the second falls. My son cannot continue with the hike anymore and was complaining and we don't want him to cry. LOL
We finished the trail with a record of almost 19km (11 mi) on our Garmin watch. Overall, it was a wonderful day hike with lots of beautiful scenery. Enjoy the hike! :)
Upper Animas Whitewater Rafting - Bucket List 2018
Class IV and Class V rapids on the Upper Animas River, near Silverton, Colorado, a tributary of the San Juan River.
The 416 Fire struck during this Arizona court reporter's epic bucket list trip, complete with emergency evacuation back to Silverton
Bakers Box at the low side of high water!
A tour down bakers at about 900cfs on the tall timber gauge.
Day 32: DURANGO, COLORADO
Rivers, Trails, & Rails with Mild to Wild
Start living your adventure by commenting and sharing! The day prior or after you've enjoyed our popular Jeep/Train package, explore Durango's sampler 1/2 day raft trip on the Lower Animas River- Great for ages 4-84. With Class I moving water, a few Class II splashes and one or more Class III wet and fun rapids (depending on water level), you will be treated to a different view of Durango, while learning the fascinating history of the area. Don't miss the highlight of your vacation!