Durango Whitewater Park: An Animas River Playground
Experience thrilling rapids and family-friendly fun at Durango Whitewater Park, a unique playground on the Animas River in downtown Durango.
The Durango Whitewater Park is a vibrant hub for water sports enthusiasts and a unique feature of the city of Durango. Located on the Animas River, just south of downtown, the park offers an exciting and accessible recreational experience for kayakers, rafters, and stand-up paddleboarders. Originally created in 1983, the park was one of the first of its kind in the nation. A 2013 renovation enhanced the park with features like Smelter Rapid, Corner Pocket, Ponderosa Wave, and Clocktower Hole, making it a prime destination for whitewater tricks and surfing. The 1,200-foot-long park is designed with various in-stream boating features, including eddies, flow deflectors, and four distinct rapids ranging from Class II to IV depending on the water flow. The park is not only a recreational asset but also an integral part of Durango's identity. The Animas River is considered the lifeblood of Durango, contributing significantly to the local economy through tourism. The Whitewater Park also secured recreational water rights for the city in 2007, ensuring its value for future generations. Beyond water sports, the park provides a scenic area for bird and wildlife watching, with opportunities to spot various native species. The Animas River Trail runs alongside the park, offering paved walking paths with river views.
Local tips
- Check the Animas River flow levels before your visit to ensure suitable conditions for your planned activities.
- Bring appropriate safety gear, including a personal flotation device (PFD) and a helmet, especially for navigating the rapids.
- Visit during the annual Animas River Days in June for a fun-filled day of kayaking competitions, a costumed river parade, and more.
- Take advantage of the park's amenities, including restrooms, a fishing area, and grassy areas for relaxation.
A brief summary to Whitewater Park
- 107 Camino Del Rio, Durango, Colorado, 81301, US
- Visit website
- Monday 5 am-12 am
- Tuesday 5 am-12 am
- Wednesday 5 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 5 am-12 am
- Saturday 5 am-12 am
- Sunday 5 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Durango, head south on Main Avenue. Turn right onto College Drive and then left onto Camino del Rio. Continue for about 0.85 miles, then turn right at the light onto Santa Rita Drive. Follow the road to the end to reach the Whitewater Park. This walk is roughly 1.5 miles and should take about 30 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Durango Transit offers bus and trolley services throughout the city. Check the Durango Transit website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. The fare is typically $1 per ride. Alternatively, DuranGO! Outside, a microtransit service, provides on-demand rides to recreational areas for $2 per ride; book via the DuranGO! app.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Durango. A taxi ride from downtown Durango to the Whitewater Park will cost approximately $10-$15. Metered street parking is available downtown at a cost of $1 per hour ($1.50/hr in summer). Municipal lots are free after 5 PM on weekdays and all day on weekends.
