Zip Line – Rafting Package

Planning a day filled with outdoor adventure in Durango? This Zip Line – Rafting Package offers a balanced mix of gentle river float plus the thrill of ziplining through Colorado’s scenic wilderness, all wrapped into one accessible, family-friendly experience. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with kids or looking for a fun, active way to enjoy Durango’s stunning natural landscape.

One thing to keep in mind is that this adventure involves a 15-minute hike uphill to reach the zipline starting point, which might be a consideration for families with very young children or travelers with mobility issues. The total experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a full-day outing that requires some physical effort but offers incredible rewards in views and memories.

We love how all guides seem to combine knowledgeable commentary with safety-conscious instruction, which helps most travelers feel confident whether they’re first-timers or seasoned adventurers. Plus, the family-focused nature of this trip—allowing children from age 5 and up to participate—means everyone can join in the fun. On the flip side, some might find the need to self-arrange transportation to the zipline and rafting offices a small hurdle, as transfers aren’t included.

Highlights of the Durango Zip Line and Rafting Experience

• Family-friendly and accessible for all skill levels
• Guided tour with expert commentary and safety instructions
• All transportation to the river included
• Opportunity for multiple zipline spans providing extended enjoyment
• Includes a riverside snack and scenic float through Durango
• Includes identifying the whitewater park for added excitement

What to Expect on Your Adventure in Durango

Starting Point and Rafting on the Animas River

Your journey begins at the Mountain Waters Rafting office in Durango, conveniently located at 303 W College Drive. The typical start time is 8:30 am, giving you a good chunk of the day for adventure. Once registered, you’ll meet your professional guide, who will provide safety instructions, explain the itinerary, and ensure everyone feels at ease. Many guides, like “Spicy Mike” or “Eric,” earn praise for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making even first-time rafters feel comfortable.

The raft trip itself is about 3-4 hours, including your float through the city and the whitewater park—a highlight for many. As you paddle down the mellow stretches, you’ll enjoy views of Durango’s landscape and the chance to relax on the water. The guides often talk about the river’s features, adding an educational touch. Expect a riverside snack during your trip, perfect for recharging before the next phase of your adventure.

The Hike and Zipline Tour

After the raft, you’ll undertake a 15-minute nature walk up a gentle trail, gaining approximately 400 feet in elevation from Durango’s 6,500-foot altitude. While most travelers handle this with ease, some may find it a tad challenging, especially with children or in warmer weather. The reward? A series of 6 zipline spans over the Ponderosa Pines, giving you incredible views of the Colorado mountains.

The ziplines are designed with safety and fun in mind. You’ll be provided with all necessary gear, including closed-toed shoes, which are required for ziplining. The zipping experience is described as “super fun” by previous visitors, and the longer spans and scenic forest backdrop make it more than just a quick thrill. One reviewer said, “The last zip line was the best I’ve ever experienced,” hinting at the quality and excitement this tour packs.

What Makes This Experience Special?

The combination of rafting and ziplining offers a balanced mix of mellow river floats and adrenaline-pumping thrills. It makes for a perfect day out whether you’re a family wanting everyone involved or friends seeking adventure. The guides’ attention to safety and commentary is frequently praised—an important point for those who value knowledgeable instruction.

The tour’s small group size (max 7 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, often leading to better interaction with guides and less waiting. The inclusion of transportation—though limited to the rafting portion—means you won’t need to worry about logistics during the initial part of your day.

Analyzing Value and Practical Considerations

At $228 per person, this adventure may seem on the higher side, but it covers a full day of varied activities, guided expertise, and equipment. Considering the multiple zipline spans and safety measures, many travelers find it excellent value for the quality and professionalism offered.

The self-transportation requirement to reach the zipline and rafting offices is a small inconvenience, especially if you’re staying locally. However, with Durango’s compact size, it’s usually manageable. If you prefer, some might consider arranging transport in advance.

Since lunch isn’t included, you may want to plan for a meal break—perhaps bring snacks or eat at the local spot after your river float. The tour does include a riverside snack, which suffices for a quick recharge between adventures.

Good for the Whole Family

This experience is great for children aged 5 and older, with a strict weight limit of 230 lbs. The safety precautions, friendly guides, and scenic setting make it highly suitable for families wanting a memorable outdoor day. Reviewers have raved about guides making the trip fun and engaging for kids as well as adults.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the professionalism of the staff. Audience comments include praise for guides like Beau and Eric, noting their skills and ability to make the trip enjoyable and safe. Reviewers also appreciated the variety of activities packed into a single day—a good value for those who want multiple adventures.

One reviewer commented on being “able to go down the big rapids not once but twice,” emphasizing how extra fun and memorable the rafting part can be. Others loved the scenic ziplining through Ponderosa pines with “epic views of the Colorado mountains.”

The experience’s small group size (up to 7 travelers) and the ability to personalize some aspects by requesting specific guides or activities add a flexible, personal touch that many appreciate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families looking for a full day of adventure without extensive planning. It’s also suitable for first-time rafters and those who want a guided, safe experience with beautiful scenery. While mostly kid-friendly, the hike to the zipline start could be challenging for some, so if mobility is an issue, it’s worth considering.

Those not comfortable transporting themselves will need to plan ahead, as transportation isn’t provided to the zipline or rafting offices. Plus, travelers eager for a single activity might prefer booking just the rafting or ziplining, but the combo offers excellent value and variety.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, family-friendly outdoor adventure in Durango, this Zip Line – Rafting Package strongly delivers on excitement, safety, and scenic beauty. It combines the calming float of the Animas River with the adrenaline rush of ziplining through the forest, making for a memorable day.

We’ll highlight the knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities as key strengths—both crucial for a smooth, enjoyable experience. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of snacks and equipment makes logistics easier.

While there’s a little extra planning involved for transportation and lunch, most travelers find the quality of experience and the variety of thrills justify the cost. This adventure feels like a genuine way to connect with Colorado’s stunning wilderness in a relaxed yet exciting way, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and older can participate, provided they meet the weight limit of 230 lbs. The guides are friendly and safety-conscious, making it a good choice for families.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all necessary gear for rafting and ziplining is provided, including helmets and harnesses. However, you should wear closed-toed shoes for ziplining.

What is included in the price?
The $228 fee covers the professional guide, transportation to and from the river, and a riverside snack. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

How long does the entire experience last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including rafting, the hike, ziplining, and breaks.

What should I be prepared for physically?
Expect about a 15-minute uphill hike with a 400-foot elevation gain to reach the zipline starting point. The activity is suitable for most, but those with mobility issues should consider this.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews consistently mention guides like Spicy Mike and Eric being knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, adding to the safety and enjoyment of the trip.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The starting point is at Mountain Waters Rafting, 303 W College Dr, Durango, CO. The tour begins at 8:30 am.

Can I request specific guides or activities?
Yes, you can request guides when booking, and some reviews mention the ability to customize the experience for added fun.

This Durango adventure is a fantastic way to explore Colorado’s outdoor beauty, creating memories that will last long after your trip ends. Whether you’re after gentle river floats or thrilling ziplines, this tour offers a versatile and well-managed way to make the most of your time in Durango.