Zip Line – Rafting Package

Adventure comes in two very different forms. This Durango package pairs a guided zip line tour through ponderosa forest with a half-day rafting trip on the Animas River, giving you fast lines, whitewater, scenery, and plenty of time outside in one seven-hour outing. I especially like the small maximum group of seven and the fact that professional guides handle the safety briefing, equipment instructions, and river commentary. The included river transportation and snack also remove a few common hassles.

I also like the family-friendly design. Children age five and older can zip line, most people can participate, and the rafting works for a wide range of skill levels. The main caution is physical: the zip line begins after a 15-minute nature-trail hike that gains about 400 feet at Durango’s 6,500-foot elevation. That uphill walk can feel more demanding than expected, especially before a full day of activity.

Quick take: what matters most

• Six or more zip lines: The course includes multiple lines, with later spans described as longer and faster. Some bookings may include 12 lines, so confirm the exact version when you reserve.
• Animas River whitewater: You raft through Durango and pass through the whitewater park, with the Animas River Trail often close enough to remain in view.
• Guides make the day work: Guides such as Tristan, Emily, Cooper, Jacob, Chad, Shea, Eric, Beau, and Spicy Mike have been praised for clear instruction, safety, and good humor.
• Small group size: The maximum is seven people, a useful detail if you prefer personal attention over a crowded boat.
• Practical inclusions: River transportation, a professional guide, and a riverside snack are included. You still need to get yourself to the zip line and rafting offices, and lunch is not included.
• Good planning matters: The listed start time is 8:30 a.m., the package costs $228 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Two Durango adventures in one day

The appeal here is simple: you get air time and river time without having to book two unrelated activities yourself. The zip line gives you a quick rush and views from above, while rafting puts you at water level, where the pace depends on river conditions and the skill of your guide.

That variety matters in Durango. You are not spending seven hours repeating one activity. Instead, the day changes rhythm. The zip line requires a short climb, harness work, and several runs through the trees. The raft trip brings paddling, rapids, calm stretches, and commentary about the area.

At $228 per person, this is not a cheap half-day outing. It makes better sense if you want both activities and would otherwise pay separately for each. The value improves for families or small groups who appreciate having guides, equipment, river transport, and a snack arranged together.

The package is also useful for mixed-age groups. One family booked activities for people ranging from age nine to 88 and appreciated the ability to arrange the activities flexibly. The physical demands still vary, so an older or less active member of your group may enjoy rafting more than the uphill walk to the zip line.

Starting at 8:30 a.m. on College Drive

Your day begins at Mountain Waters Rafting and Adventure Company at 303 W College Drive in Durango. The listed start time is 8:30 a.m., so plan to arrive ready for a full outdoor day.

You must get yourself to the rafting and zip line offices. Once the river portion begins, transportation to and from the river is included. That distinction is important. The package does not provide a complete door-to-door pickup from your hotel or a guaranteed transfer between every activity location.

The schedule can be arranged with zip lining in the morning and rafting in the afternoon, as one booking did. Since the exact order may depend on operations and availability, ask when booking. If you are planning around lunch, also remember that lunch is not included. A riverside snack is provided, but it should not be treated as a full meal.

A mobile ticket makes check-in easier, and confirmation is sent when you book. Provide a working phone number, since the company requests one for communication.

The uphill trail to the zip lines

The zip line tour does not begin right beside the office. You walk for about 15 minutes along a nature trail, gaining roughly 400 feet in elevation. Durango already sits at about 6,500 feet, so this short hike can feel like a real warm-up.

The company takes the pace slowly, but you should still wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. The closed-toe shoe rule is required for zip lining, and practical footwear will also help on the trail.

That uphill approach is the clearest physical drawback of the package. Most people can participate, but anyone with trouble walking uphill should think carefully before booking. Parents should also consider how young children handle a climb before an activity that requires focus and balance.

At the top, guides provide instruction before anyone leaves the platform. Safety explanations are given before each line, which helps first-timers settle in. One participant described the final choice as either jumping or zipping off the edge, adding a playful finish to the course.

The zip lines pass through a ponderosa forest about a mile from downtown Durango. The setting gives you a good contrast with the later river trip. You are above the trees, moving from platform to platform, with views that open across the surrounding area.

Six lines, twelve lines, and how the course feels

The package may include six zip lines, while some bookings have included 12 spans. Confirm the exact number before paying, because the difference affects the value of the package.

The available feedback points to a course that becomes faster and longer during the second half. That progression is useful for beginners. You start with instruction and shorter runs, then gain confidence before reaching the more exciting spans.

The guides are a major part of the experience. Emily and Cooper were praised for their work on the zip line, while Jacob and Chad were described as clear and reassuring. Another group appreciated how every line was explained before the next run.

That careful approach should appeal to first-time zip liners. You do not need prior experience, but you do need to follow instructions and meet the stated limits. The maximum weight is 230 pounds, and children must be at least five years old.

Parents who do not want to zip can sometimes relax at the zip line area while children participate. One account describes a shaded rooftop patio with couches where parents could unwind after rafting while their children used the zip lines. Treat that as a useful feature to confirm directly when booking, since the available setup can matter to your group.

Rafting the Animas River through Durango

The river portion takes place on the Animas River and includes a trip through Durango’s whitewater park. You float with the Animas River Trail nearby, giving you a changing view of the town and river corridor instead of a remote wilderness setting.

That is part of the charm. This is an accessible Durango river outing, not an expedition far from town. You get rapids, river scenery, and a sense of the local setting while remaining close to the community.

River conditions affect the character of the trip. In late July, low water made one outing less forceful, but the guide still kept it fun. At other times, the boat ran the larger rapids twice, and one group even swam in the river.

You should not assume the same rapids or water level on every date. The river changes with the season, and the guide controls the route and pace. That variability is normal for rafting and is one reason the guide’s judgment matters.

The river trip also includes local commentary. Beau shared information about area sights, including a bridge, while other guides mixed instruction with conversation. Spicy Mike was praised for keeping the trip enjoyable and for helping a child who became cold during rain near the end.

Guides, safety, and the human side of the day

The strongest part of this package is the staff. The guides are repeatedly praised for safety awareness, clear directions, and a relaxed manner. That combination is especially valuable when your group includes first-time rafters or zip liners.

On the raft, guides explain what to do before rapids and manage the boat during changing conditions. On the zip line, they explain each span and help participants move through the course. You can request a guide when booking, although the request may not always be available.

There is even a local animal celebrity. Atlas, the rafting Akita, was specifically requested by one family and joined their rafting trip with guide Beau. If you like the idea of a dog sharing the boat, ask whether Atlas is available for your date, but do not treat him as guaranteed.

The small group limit of seven is another plus. It should allow more direct contact with the guide than a large commercial outing. It also makes the package easier for a family or group of friends to enjoy together without feeling anonymous.

What to wear and what to bring

Closed-toe shoes are required for the zip line. Choose shoes that stay secure and can handle a short uphill trail.

Spring rafting can be cold, and thermal gear rentals are available and recommended during that season. Even outside spring, bring layers. River weather can change quickly, and the account of a rainy final section shows why a warm layer matters.

Plan your food as well. The riverside snack is helpful, but it does not replace lunch. Since the activities can fill much of the day, ask about the timing and pack or plan a meal that fits between them.

You should also be ready for water, sun, and physical movement. The tour is family-friendly, but family-friendly does not mean effortless. The uphill trail, harness work, paddling, and possible cold water all deserve a little preparation.

Who will get the most from this package?

I would recommend this package to first-time adventure seekers who want a guided introduction rather than a technical outdoor challenge. The clear instruction and safety focus make it approachable, while the faster zip lines and whitewater park keep it from feeling tame.

It is also a good match for families with children age five or older, provided the children meet the zip line requirements and can manage the uphill walk. Older children may especially enjoy the combination of height, speed, and river action.

Small groups should also find the format appealing. The maximum of seven people keeps the experience personal, and the staff can sometimes help arrange different activities on separate days. One large family group valued that flexibility, especially with ages ranging from nine to 88.

I would be more cautious about booking if someone in your party has trouble with a 400-foot uphill climb, cannot wear closed-toe shoes, or weighs more than 230 pounds. The rafting may still sound appealing, but the package includes both activities, so every participant needs to consider the zip line requirements.

Is $228 a fair price?

The $228 cost is reasonable if you genuinely want both activities in one trip. You are paying for professional guides, equipment and instruction, transportation to and from the river, and a riverside snack, plus the convenience of combining two outdoor outings.

The value is less clear if you only want a short rafting trip or only want to zip line. In that case, a single activity may suit your budget better. The package earns its price through variety and the amount of time it fills, not through luxury extras.

A second activity discount may be available when booking directly with the company, and some groups have arranged the two activities over separate days. Ask about current options. Splitting the activities may work better for families with mixed energy levels than forcing everyone through one long day.

Free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations made inside that window are not accepted for a refund.

My call: book it if you want variety

Book this Durango zip line and rafting package if you want a full outdoor day, appreciate careful guides, and like the idea of switching from forest platforms to Animas River rapids. The small group size, strong safety instruction, and family-friendly format make it a sensible choice for first-timers.

Before you commit, confirm the number of zip lines, the order of activities, and the transfer details between offices. Check the 230-pound limit, prepare for the uphill trail, and plan your own lunch. If those points fit your group, $228 buys a lively and well-organized day with enough variety to keep the adventure moving.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?

The tour starts at Mountain Waters Rafting and Adventure Company, 303 W College Drive, Durango, Colorado 81301.

What time does the tour begin?

The listed start time is 8:30 a.m.

How long does the package last?

The combined experience lasts approximately seven hours.

Is transportation included?

Transportation to and from the river is included. You must transport yourself to and from the zip line and rafting offices.

Is lunch provided?

No. Lunch between activities is not included, although a riverside snack is provided.

How old must children be to zip line?

Children must be at least five years old to zip line and must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there a weight limit for the zip line?

Yes. The zip line has a 230-pound weight limit, and participants must wear closed-toe shoes.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel at least 24 hours before the experience start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted.