The Dolores River flows 230 miles north from the Bear Mountains in Colorado lying deep within the San Juan National Forest. Hosting Arches National Park and petroglyphs and ruins of the Anasazi peoples, the Dolores River also has a rich history of gold, silver and carnotite (used to produce uranium) mining. A raft trip on the Dolores River offers more unbroken miles of wilderness river scenery and whitewater rafting thrills than any river trip in the lower 48 states, one of America's best rafting runs and ranking only behind the "Grand Canyon" of the Colorado and Middle Fork of the Salmon as a classic paddling experience. The Dolores River is at its most runnable state in early spring run (mid-April thru mid-June) for whitewater rafting trips. Low water requires the use of canoes for fishing trips, which can sometimes be run summer and fall as well.
PONDEROSA GORGE: Here the river flows down through the high country, clear green and cold, teeming with trout. Camping under the branches of ancient 100' Ponderosa pines, you can listen to the roar of the legendary Class IV Snaggletooth Rapid, the beginning of one of the most challenging stretches of whitewater in the West, culminating in the fury of the Narrows ten miles downstream.
Trip Details
Duration
2-3 Days
Location
Dolores River, Ponderosa Gorge
Season
May - June
Trip Type
Paddle & Oar
Nearest City
Cortez, CO (Meeting Point)
Physical Condition Required
Good
Destination(s)
Colorado, United States
Rated Classes
II-IV
Guest Capacity
25
Minimum Age Limit
10
Distance Traveled
47+ Miles
Inflatable Kayaks
Yes, With Instruction Provided
Hard Shell Kayaks
Yes, With Instruction Provided
Additional Activities
Fishing, Swimming, Off River Hiking/Exploring, Volleyball, Horseshoes
Dining
All Meals Included
About Liquor
Wine Provided or BYOB for Evening
Rates
$303.00 - $523.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
Additional Rate Info
Government fees/taxes, gratuity, equipment rentals, shuttle costs.
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Reservation Policy
25% deposit required.
Cancellation Policy
If cancellations made more than 45 days prior to the trip, a non-refundable $50. Under 45 days up to 14 days prior to trip, the 25% is not refundable. Under 14 days, no refund is given.
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