Kayaking

Durango's name comes from the Basque word Urango, meaning water town. And Durango's water comes from the Animas River, which runs right through the heart of our community.

Average yearly peak flows are measured in Durango at around 5,000 cubic feet per second. During years of high runoff, the volume reaches 7,000 cubic feet per second. The river boasts waters ranging from Class V rapids, for expert boaters only, on the Upper Animas to a playful Class I, for novices of all abilities.

Kayakers and other river runners enjoy the river. You can go solo or in groups. To learn the ropes of Kayaking and enjoy the friendship of other kayakers, join the Kayakers Club at Fort Lewis College. The club shows kayak films, sponsors river cleanups and arranges for community river trips.

Kayakers and other river runners enjoy the Animas River, which runs through the heart of our community.