Exciting rapids, desert scenery and towering pines
Ponderosa Gorge
Ponderosa Gorge Trip Search:
ponderosa gorge overview
In Ponderosa Canyon, the Dolores is a river in transition from a mountain stream to a desert river. It flows through a red sandstone canyon covered in brilliant green scrub oak. The shore is lined with willows and ponderosa pines, and the river is charged with exciting, rocky rapids. The biggest and most famous rapid on this section is Snaggletooth, which should be scouted before running.
Recommended For: Boaters comfortable in the wilderness and experienced at class III-IV whitewater.
Recommended Trips on Ponderosa Gorge – Dolores River:
Raft fantastic early season whitewater on the Dolores River – a true gem in the southwest. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the red rock cliff gorge while you navigate exciting class III-IV rapids. Departing near Durango and Cortez, CO, raft during late May-early June on this trip suitable for all skill levels and ages 10+.
Adult price : $749
Take time to unwind on this desert getaway that combines two breathtaking sections of the Dolores River. The fast-paced rapids of Ponderosa Gorge give-way to the mild, winding water of Slick Rock Canyon. Located near Durango and Cortez, CO, raft in late May-early June. Those ages 10+ and all skill levels are suitable for this adventure.
Adult price : $1369
This trip combines Ponderosa Gorge, Slick Rock, and Gateway Canyons to create one of the longest raft trips in the West. Exciting whitewater, fascinating geology, Indian ruins, interesting side creeks, and stunning sunsets will fill your days on this adventure of a lifetime.
Adult price : $2289
panderosa gorge sections
Dolores River – Ponderosa Gorge Whitewater Rafting Details:
Difficulty: Class III-IV (What does this mean?)
Elevation: 6457′ to 5472′
Average Gradient: 20.8′ per mile
Access to Access
Bradfield Bridge to Mountain Sheep Point: 19 miles
Mountain Sheep Point to Slick Rock: 28.3 miles
Total Mileage: 47.3 miles
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Information for Dolores Self-Guided Boaters:
The Dolores River (Ponderosa Gorge and Slick Rock Canyons) are managed by the Bureau of Land Management out of Dolores, CO.
- Boating Permit Required: NO
- Permit Details: No fee of any kind is required to float the river, although there are group size limits.
- River Manager: U.S Bureau of Land Management – Tres Rios Field Office
29211 Hwy 184, Dolores, CO 81323
970.882.7296 ~ www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/sjplc.html
Shuttles:
Please contact the river manager (above) for information on shuttles.