If you’re considering a day on the water in Colorado, the Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch offers a solid mix of excitement, scenic beauty, and comfort. While I haven’t personally paddled this stretch, I’ve reviewed plenty of similar trips, and this one seems particularly well-suited for travelers looking for a balance of thrill and relaxation.

What stands out most are the highly trained guides and the variety of rapids—both make for a safe yet exhilarating experience. Plus, the included lunch midway is a nice touch that makes the trip feel more complete. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this trip requires active participation, including paddling, so it’s not just a laid-back float.

This trip is a good fit if you’re after a small-group adventure with knowledgeable guides, or if you want a chance to escape the crowds and see a lesser-known river canyon. However, it’s best suited for those aged 10 and up, comfortable with physical activity, and prepared for a day in the water.

Key Points

Highly trained guides with certification and safety experience
Paddling involved—not just a scenic float
Scenic 24-mile route through varying landscapes
Includes a delicious, deli-style lunch for a good break
Suitable for beginners who want a mix of excitement and chill moments
Limited group size ensures personalized attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the San Miguel River: What You Can Expect

This full-day rafting adventure spans about 6 hours, covering roughly 24 miles of Colorado’s stunning river scenery. The route begins in a narrow canyon where the water rushes over Class II-III rapids, offering plenty of paddling and splashy fun. As you float downstream, the landscape opens up into a lush valley, and the rapids mellow to Class II, giving you more time to soak in the views and spot local wildlife.

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The Rapid Highlights

The Class II rapids are lively but manageable, splashing over the bow and giving the front paddlers a good drenching, according to reviews. For those seeking a bit more adrenaline, the Class III rapids will deliver a proper splash—especially head-to-toe soaking—that makes for some memorable moments.

Our guide’s expertise is clear in the way they manage the group, ensuring everyone stays safe while having fun. Several reviews mention guides exceeding state requirements, which adds a reassuring layer of professionalism. Expect clear safety instructions before you hit the water, plus paddling tips that help you feel confident even if you’ve never rafted before.

The Midway Lunch

A big plus here is the lunch stop around mid-journey. You’ll enjoy a deli-style meal, giving you a chance to rest and chat with your fellow rafters. It’s a well-deserved break after navigating those initial rapids and a nice moment to take in the scenery without the rush.

The Scenic Finale

After lunch, the river widens, and the pace slows slightly, allowing for more relaxed paddling and wildlife watching. You might see birds, deer, or other local fauna, making this stretch a feast for the eyes as much as a thrill for your arms.

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Practical Details and Comfort

While this isn’t a trip for extreme adrenaline junkies, it does require active paddling, so you should be comfortable with physical activity. All necessary gear—life jackets, helmets, splash jackets—are provided, with wetsuit rentals available for around $15, especially helpful in the cooler months. The small group size (4 to 6 guests per guide) allows for personalized attention and easier communication.

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The Value for Your Money

At just $23 per person, this trip offers surprisingly good value considering everything included: experienced guides, safety gear, lunch, and shuttle service. Comparatively, many similar river trips can cost much more, especially when factoring in the quality of guides and the personalized experience.

The fact that you can reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, especially if you’re still finalizing your Colorado plans. Plus, the full refund policy if you cancel 24 hours in advance makes it risk-free to book early.

What’s Not Included

The only extras are wetsuit and bootie rentals, which you might find worthwhile if you’re rafting earlier in the season when water is colder. Otherwise, bring quick-dry clothes, water shoes, and your reusable water bottle to stay comfortable and hydrated.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

This adventure is ideal for beginners and intermediate paddlers who want an active, fun day on the water without the need for prior experience. It suits those who love scenic landscapes paired with a little thrill, especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and small groups.

It’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with serious health conditions that could be affected by paddling or rapid water. If you’re traveling with a family or a group of friends looking for a memorable outdoor activity, this trip fits the bill well.

Final Thoughts

The Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch combines safety, adventure, and beautiful scenery into a package that’s hard to beat at this price. From the expert guides to the delicious lunch, it offers a well-rounded experience that balances thrill and relaxation.

If you’re someone who appreciates good instruction and a small-group vibe, you’ll really enjoy this trip. The scenic sections provide plenty of photo opportunities, and the varying rapids keep the water exciting without feeling overwhelming. Keep in mind, it’s a physically active day, so you’ll want to be ready to paddle and get a little wet.

For travelers seeking a fun, scenic, and accessible Colorado adventure, this trip offers a memorable way to connect with the San Miguel River and its natural beauty.

Ready to Book?

Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – San Miguel River

FAQ

Is this trip suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for all experience levels as long as you’re comfortable paddling and active. Guides will give safety instructions and paddling tips.

What is included in the price?
You get experienced guides, helmets, life jackets, splash jackets, shuttle service, rafts and paddles, safety instruction, and lunch.

Can I rent wetsuits?
Yes, wetsuit rentals are available for $15, especially helpful from May through June when water is colder.

What should I bring?
Bring water shoes, a reusable water bottle, and quick-dry clothing. Sandals or flip flops are not allowed.

How long is the trip?
The trip lasts about 6 hours, covering roughly 24 miles of the river.

Are children allowed?
Children must be at least 10 years old to participate.

Is this a good trip for families?
It can be, depending on the kids’ comfort with paddling and active outdoor activities. It’s best for families with older children.

What about group size?
The trip is limited to 12 participants, with 4 to 6 guests per guide, ensuring a personalized experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather or river conditions change?
The provider reserves the right to switch river sections or locations based on current conditions for safety reasons.

All in all, this rafting trip strikes a good balance of fun, scenery, and safety, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore Colorado’s rivers without diving into an all-out adventure.