Spanning a length of 126 miles, the Animas River starts in the San Juan Mountains, flows through the town of Silverton, into the Animas Canyon, past the city of Durango, and into New Mexico where it finally merges with the San Juan River near the town of Aztec. Along the way, the river plays host to some excellent water sports.

Raft, kayak, fish and SUP just minutes from downtown Durango via the Animas River Trail, or head up into the high country to fly fish clear mountain streams and creeks. 

The San Juan, Dolores, upper Animas and Florida rivers are all located within a half-day drive of Durango, offering fishing and water sports on each.

Local fishing guides have the inside fishing knowledge; check out Duranglers or The San Juan Angler for information on area waters and guided trips. 

For rafting and kayaking trips, check out local guides such as Mild to Wild, Durango Rivertrippers, Durango Rafting Co., Mountain Waters, Southwest Raft, and 4Corners Riversports to book a trip on the lower Animas (through Durango), or a longer trip on the upper Animas (near Silverton).