Rafting FAQ’s

Mountain Waters Rafting Packages
  1. What experience do I need?

    Mountain Waters Rafting Packages
    1. What experience do I need?
      It is not necessary that you have any previous experience. The Lower Animas trip that is part of the Raft n Rail package is a great trip for beginners of all ages.
    2. I can’t swim. Can I still go rafting?
      Everyone on a Mountain Waters raft trip wears a coast guard approved life jacket. This will keep you afloat in the event that you find yourself in the river. Mountain Waters takes many non-swimmers on trips, and they have a great time. It is more important that you are not afraid of the water.
    3. Is rafting dangerous?
      Rafting is thrilling, exciting, wet, wild and unbelievably fun. However, as in all adventure sports, there is an inherent risk involved. That risk contributes to the excitement, and is one of the reasons people enjoy it so much. Mountain Waters guides are trained to minimize risks and, statistically, you’re safer on a raft than in your car. One state government study found in an investigation that the injury rate for whitewater rafting is similar to that for bowling! But still, there is a risk, and you must accept that risk when you go on the river. By the way, the most common injury is sunburn, and most other injuries occur on land, especially getting into and out of the boats.
    4. How fit should I be to go rafting? Is it strenuous?
      Most of the trips are oar-paddle combination boats. This means that you may have a paddle in your hands. You should be reasonably healthy, and must be able to fit into our life jackets. Paddling can be tiring, but the guides will instruct you on efficient paddling technique. Paddle rafts are available on request. Oar boats, where you ride along as a passenger, are available on the Lower Animas. If you’re in doubt, check with your doctor before you go.
    5. What should I wear on the Lower Animas?
      Many people coming in their normal vacation attire. Bring sure to bring suntan lotion, a hat, and a windbreaker. You’ll get splashed, so wear quick-drying clothes such as shorts and T-shirts. To keep your shoes dry and your feet warm,  wet suit booties are recommended – $5 per trip. If the water is cold or the weather is cool, you should rent the warm package. It includes a wetsuit, splash jacket and wetsuit booties. Cost of the warm package is only $15.
    6. Can I bring my camera or video camera?
      It is recommended that you not bring video cameras, or even expensive still cameras on trips. Disposable cameras are available for sale at the Mountain Waters booth. They’re great! The quality of the pictures is good, and if you lose it, it’s not the end of the world. They are well suited to rafting. Lower Animas trips have professional photographers stationed at key points, whose photos you can view and order after the trip.

      TO BOOK THIS ADVENTURE PACKAGE NOW CALL OUR RESERVATION OFFICE AT
      1-888-872-4607 AND ASK FOR THE PACKAGES DESK

Proud member of the American Heritage Railways Family