I booked a full day adventure rafting trip for my son and me to cap off a trip into Chicago Basin to climb Windom Peak. I had heard that Mountain Waters was the top outfitter in town for Class IV-V rafting. We were not disappointed.
Everyone at Mountain Waters was friendly and helpful. Safety was a big concern so they reiterated time and time again what to do and what not to do. For these trips, you have to attend an orientation the evening prior to setting out.
The trip begins by taking the scenic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad up towards Silverton. When the train stops for water at a remote water tank, the rafting crew and customers unload along with all the rafts and gear. The rafts are aired up and we changed into our wetsuits, helmets and PFDs. Everything is strapped down tight in drybags, because the rest of the day is serious soak-time. Jesse was our guide and did a terrific job at keeping us in line as a crew and entertained. We stopped for a great deli lunch part-way down. While on the water it is almost constant fun and action, either getting through some crazy rapids or enjoying the unbelievable scenery.
After taking out at the last possible place, all the gear is deflated and packed up for a strenuous hike out to a waiting truck. MW asks the guests to help pack out, but it's not required. The gear is heavy and unwieldy....we aren't talking about backpacks here. The rafts weigh 115lbs and the oars and other equipment were heavy as well. My son volunteered to pack out a raft, which MW's crew appreciated. No complaints here, as the hike out was clearly stated in the trip info. It was just part of the awesome experience.
Jesse, Andy and Edith from Mountain Waters were great to float with the entire day. If we go back to Durango, we will do this trip again.