Animas River Days in Durango
Every summer, locals and visitors gather along the Animas River to celebrate one of Durango’s most exciting outdoor events, Animas River Days. This annual festival brings the community together for a weekend of whitewater competitions, river culture, and outdoor fun right in the heart of town.
Held at Santa Rita Park near downtown Durango, the event highlights the important role the Animas River plays in the area’s outdoor recreation, environment, and local lifestyle. Spectators can watch talented paddlers take on the rapids while enjoying a lively atmosphere along the riverbanks.
History Of Animas River Days
Animas River Days began in 1985 when local paddling legend Nancy Wiley organized the town’s first official whitewater rodeo. What started as a small gathering of river enthusiasts quickly grew into one of Durango’s most anticipated outdoor events.Today, the festival attracts paddlers and spectators from around the region and beyond, showcasing Durango’s reputation as one of Colorado’s most active whitewater communities.
Event Info
Events & Activities
Animas River Days features a variety of exciting competitions and river-based activities throughout the weekend. Visitors can watch athletes compete in events such as river surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, freestyle kayaking, boatercross races, and raft or kayak slalom. One of the most entertaining traditions is the costumed river parade, where participants float downstream dressed in creative costumes. The festival also includes a fun inflatable rodeo event and a lively beer garden where spectators can relax and enjoy the festivities.
Durango Whitewater Park
Many of the competitions take place at Durango’s Whitewater Park, a specially designed stretch of the Animas River that features multiple rapid elements and wave features. The park has long been used for national paddling events and competitions, making it a centerpiece of Durango’s whitewater scene.With several engineered rapids and waves, the park provides ideal conditions for kayaking, rafting, and river surfing demonstrations during the festival.
The Durango Whitewater Park opened in 2014 and features 12 rapid elements, including Corner Pocket, Smelter Rapid, and Ponderosa. Depending on water levels, the rapids range from Class III during lower flows to Class IV when the river is running higher. The park has also been reshaped over the years, adding several new features for paddlers to enjoy. One highlight is the fast top wave that “greens out” at higher flows, while lower water levels create a wavy hole perfect for practicing freestyle tricks.
If you’re visiting Durango in early summer, Animas River Days is a great way to experience the energy of the local outdoor community. Spend the day watching thrilling whitewater competitions, exploring downtown shops and restaurants, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Animas River flowing through town.