The Top Safety Tips for Your Whitewater Rafting Trip, Part Two
If you’re looking for a fun activity in Durango this summer, consider taking the family on a safe and invigorating whitewater rafting trip. In part one of this series, we discussed three top safety tips to ensure your rafting trip is successful. In part two, we’ll take a look at four more tips to consider.
At Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours, we’ve been providing Durango guests and residents with some of the best adventures Colorado has to offer for more than 30 years. From our four-hour rafting trip to our two-hour rafting trip, you’ll enjoy paddling down the Animas River as you soak in historical Old West landmarks and cool off in the river. If you’re interested in learning more about our exciting whitewater rafting trips, contact us today!
Whitewater Rafting Tip #4: Plan Your Rafting Wardrobe
Many first time whitewater rafters aren’t sure what to wear for their first outing, but our tour guides are here to give you some advice so you’re not left shivering or roasting on board. Sunglasses are an essential item if you plan your rafting trip on a sunny and cloudless day. If you plan a rafting trip in the fall or on a colder day, consider wearing swim trunks or athletic shorts. Be cautious about packing any cotton clothing, as these items will not offer comfortable breathability like other materials. Many women have told us that they would also recommend wearing one-piece bathing suits.
When it comes to footwear, water shoes will work best if you fall in the water or decide to jump off of the raft for a swim. If you don’t have water shoes, make sure to wear footwear that will not slip off easily. We’ve seen many men, women, and children lose their shoes or backless sandals in the Animas River, and we would hate for that to happen on your adventure.
Whitewater Rafting Tip #5: Stay In The Boat
While this may seem like common sense, make sure to listen to your tour guide and to stay in the boat when instructed. Whitewater rafting is a fun and exciting activity for the whole family, but you never know when you might hit an unexpected rapid or rock in the river. If your tour guide calls out the word “bump” before your raft hits a rock, lean inwards and place your paddle in a “T” grip on the floor of the raft. This should help to keep you safely in the boat, but if you happen to fall out, don’t panic! Your tour guide will make sure you get back in the boat before heading downstream.
Whitewater Rafting Tip #6: Know the Proper Swimming Techniques
When swimming in a river, there are some important swimming techniques to keep in mind. The most important technique is known as the “Down River Swimmer’s Position.” If you happen to fall out of the raft, or you decide to take a little swim downstream, this is the technique you should use. When you’re in the water, roll over onto your back with your nose and toes to the sky. Keep your head slightly elevated so you can see where you’re going, and make sure your feet are facing downstream. This will give you the opportunity to make contact with a rock using your feet and legs, instead of unexpectedly hitting one with your head.
Whitewater Rafting Tip #7: Pack Sunscreen
While you’re paddling down the Animas River and enjoying the historic sites of Durango, the last thing you want is to return home severely sunburnt. Before you hop in the raft for your guided tour, make sure you and your family members apply plenty of sunscreen. The higher the SPF the better, and you don’t forget to re-apply throughout the day.
Whitewater Rafting Trips & Adventure Tours in Durango
As you can see, there are many things you can do to ensure your whitewater rafting trip is safe and successful. If you’re looking for a reputable rafting company in Durango, look no further than Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours. We’ve been providing Colorado residents and visitors with some of the safest adventures for more than 30 years. If you’re interested in signing up for one of our whitewater rafting trips, or you’d like to learn more about our jeep rentals and Mesa Verde tours, contact us today!