Animas River Days

Animas River Days includes these sporting events: river surfing, stand-up paddling, freestyle kayaking, boatercross, raft and kayak slalom, an inflatable rodeo and the local's favorite costumed river parade. The Animas River is the heart and soul of our community! We are partnering with ​San Juan Citizen's Alliance and other local conservation groups to help you learn about how you can get involved in keeping our local rivers healthy and safe. We are committed to healthy rivers and healthy people. This is why we have made the commitment to be a Zero Waste event by 2020. Please read more about how you can help us: https://www.animasriverdays.com/zero-waste.html. Don't miss the River Parade Viewing Party at Santa Rita Park, 6 pm, with a live DJ. Ska Brewing Beer Garden opens at noon and will remain open throughout the parade.

Animas River Days started in 1983 when local paddling legend Nancy Wiley put on the first whitewater rodeo in Durango, CO. As time went on, Animas River Days has drawn paddlers from all around the world to its events. Durango’s Whitewater Park has hosted the U.S. National team trials for freestyle, slalom, and wild water events as well as the U.S. National Championships in slalom and open canoe slalom. From 1989 to 1996, Durango was also the host of the Champion International Whitewater Slalom Series.

Our world class whitewater park includes key features including Smelter Rapid, Corner Pocket, Ponderosa Wave, and Clocktower. This year we have higher than normal snow pack and are expecting a near high-water event! Pro-athletes from Jackson Kayak, Badfish, Liquid Logic, Red Bull, Pyranha, Hala and SOL have been known to compete at Animas River Days. We also have many talented local paddlers who will show off their skills during the events! Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned pro, Animas River Days' schedule of events will inspire you to live active, healthy lives while also keeping our rivers and environment clean and safe.

Parking at Santa Rita Park is extremely limited. Please park at the Durango Transit Center, 250 West 8th Street, and ride the FREE SHUTTLE to Santa Rita Park. ​Shuttle is provided by Ride Responsible, 9 am to 8 pm, running every 20 minutes. We also encourage you to ride your bike or boat to the event!