San Miguel River, Colorado
| Price |
 What's this? |
| Class of Rapids |
II-III |
| Trip Miles |
7 to 14 miles |
| Trip Duration |
0.5 to 1 day |
| Season |
May-July |
| Raft Type |
Paddle Raft, Oar Raft |
| River Sections |
Placerville to Naturita Power Plant |
| Nearby Towns |
Telluride |
| Driving Times |
Grand Junction: 3 hours |
| Recommended For |
Beginner, Families, Wildlife |
Flowing out of the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, the San Miguel’s scenic makeup shifts dramatically from high alpine terrain near the resort town of Telluride to desert flora and fauna where it eventually meets the Dolores some 70 miles to its northwest. The most popular section to raft is a seven- to 14-mile stretch below Placerville (25 miles northwest of Telluride), offering a steady diet of Class II-III action that’s ideal for families and beginners. The scenery here’s outstanding, as are your chances of spotting critters like eagles, hawks, elk, and perhaps even bears.
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
