Enjoy whitewater rafting trips on Ouray area rivers. Below you will find whitewater rafting information for the Uncompahgre, Gunnison and San Miguel rivers. For a complete guide to all Four Corners area whtiewater rafting rivers please go to our Four Corners whitewater rafting pages.

With the coming of each spring, snowmelt from high in the San Juan Mountains brings increased water flows to our local rivers and adventure opportunities for rafters and kayakers alike. Enjoying this magical time of year is a must and there is no better way to experience run-off than by boating down the river!

Although rafting rivers is fun, it is also an activity that requires a high level of experience in order to safely maneuver a boat through any whitewater situation. So before you go, make sure your leader is properly versed and equipped for a variety of whitewater situations. Better yet, take advantage of utilizing local knowledge and certified trained professionals with a local rafting company offering guided trips.
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Rating the difficulty of a rapid is based on a numerical rating system called “Class.” This systematical rating of a river helps boaters identify the difficulty of a river section and determine if it is an appropriate run for there skill level. The Classification system works on an I–VI system, with class I (flat-water), up to class VI (Niagara Falls.) When choosing a trip, make sure you aren’t getting in over your head. For families of first timers, Class I – III is the way to go. For experienced boaters, class III – IV makes the most sense. Note: class V ratings are unadvised unless you are a trained professional and ready for combat swimming! Have fun.

The Uncompahgre River from the town of Ridgway to the Ridgway Reservoir, (Class II to III+ rapids) is a great introductory rafting section with wonderful wildlife and scenery opportunities. The majestic San Juan Mountains fill the back drop for the entire run! Float through prime wildlife habitat for an up-close look at songbirds, deer, and birds of prey!

Narrow canyon sections of the Uncompahgre River provide a unique and remote experience for paddlers and a rare opportunity to get off the beaten path. A fantastic run on over 15 miles of remote access on the lower Uncompahgre River is also available with excellent water flows maintained throughout the summer. Access on this mostly private section of river is extremely limited, with no defined take-out location.

Named for the Spanish Jesuits that first explored the area in 1777, Dominguez and Escalante Canyons are rich in history, wildlife, and scenery. The class II Lower Gunnison River gently carves its way through Dominguez canyon creating a wilderness feeling. Cottonwood stands along the river provide nesting habitat for herons and songbirds, while deer, desert bighorn sheep, and large game can be seen along the banks. Native American rock-art, and spectacular desert flora and fauna can be found on numerous side-hikes making for a rich experience on the edge of canyon country; great for both rafts and kayaks.

The Gunnison Gorge Wilderness is located nine miles northeast of Montrose and offers a wild and pristine backcountry experience. A unique double canyon system of black granite layered with red sandstones, the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness is located within the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area just downstream from the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The Gunnison Gorge Wilderness is only the second BLM managed wilderness area in Colorado; it is managed to preserve and protect its wilderness, scenic and recreational values.

The ideal way to see the Gunnison Gorge and Black Canyon – from the inside! A true wilderness experience, this 14 mile river section combines incredible wildlife and scenery with class III-IV whitewater through one of the most spectacular canyons in Colorado. The Gunnison Gorge is famous for its world-class fishing, geology, and wildlife but sees moderate use because of its remote location, and challenging access.

The San Miguel drops over 7000' from an alpine ecosystem to the desert. The San Miguel offers the whitewater boater a variety of runs all within the class III-IV range. The river's consistent gradient and continuous character provides the boater with an abundance of whitewater.

Due to spring flooding, the river contains numerous strainers and downed wood which change periodically, though most are easily spotted. Use caution. The San Miguel should be easily negotiated by the Intermediate whitewater boater. However, The San Miguel's class II-III rating can be deceptive. This river is continuous, shallow, and contains a fair amount of downed wood - the consequences can be more significant than the rating would suggest.

Don't forget to contact the local rafting outfitter to receive the most up to date information on conditions, access, gear and guided trips. Article contributed by Tim Patterson, owner RIGS Fly Shop & Guide Service.