Sharing the Love of the Animas River
Engaging Community, Encouraging Youth, & Exploring Low Flow Wave Opportunities
Dedicated To the Growth and Vitality of River Surfing in Durango, CO
Our Goals The core of Animas River Surfers
At the core of Animas River Surfers is a commitment to engaging the community and improving inclusive access to river surfing, fostering a deeper connection between young people and the river. Additionally, we are actively exploring the feasibility of a low water river wave in the Durango area, creating more opportunities for multi-season surfing and enhancing the overall river experience for everyone.
Engaging Community
We Play Well With Others
Our mission goes beyond the thrill of surfing river waves; it’s about creating a vibrant, inclusive, and safe community around our shared love for the river. We believe that fostering a deep connection between people and the river is key to ensuring its long-term health and accessibility. To achieve this, we are committed to engaging our community through comprehensive outreach and education initiatives that make the river more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Encouraging Youth
Get Kids in the Water
We believe that the future of river sports lies in the hands of the next generation. Engaging youth in river activities is not just a priority for us—it’s a core goal that shapes everything we do. By fostering a love for the river and its sports among young people, we aim to cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors, encourage healthy lifestyles, and build a community of environmentally conscious individuals who will carry on the legacy of river stewardship.
Exploring a Low Flow Feature
Explore New Wave Frontiers
Our vision for the future of river sports in Durango is deeply intertwined with our goal of creating a sustainable and accessible river surfing experience. A key part of this vision is the development of a low water wave feature on the Animas River. To make this dream a reality, we are committed to conducting a comprehensive feasibility study that will assess the technical, environmental, and community impacts of introducing a low water wave to our river. This initiative is not just about enhancing river sports—it’s about improving the overall health and accessibility of the river for everyone.
Consider
Donating & Help Shape the Future of the Animas River
We are an all volunteer nonprofit with 501(c)(3) status pending IRS approval. All money raised is invested in the future of Durango’s river recreation and community spirit. Your donation directly supports improved accessibility of surfing on the Animas River. By contributing, you help bring this vision to life, ensuring that our community has access to a sustainable and accessible recreational resource for years to come.
Beyond the economic and recreational benefits, your donation also fosters environmental stewardship and community engagement. Your support enables us to organize river clean-ups, educational programs, and community events that promote a deep connection with nature and a commitment to conservation. Every dollar you donate helps us build a stronger, more connected community while safeguarding the environment that makes Durango such a special place to live and visit.
Updates What's happening, events, news and more
Welcome to the Animas River Surfers Blog, your go-to source for all the latest news, updates, and events related to river surfing in Durango, Colorado. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, a curious newcomer, or simply a community enthusiast, our blog is designed to keep you informed and engaged with the vibrant world of river surfing. From progress on our low water wave project, news about events like river clean ups and meet ups to safety and etiquette tips and stories from our passionate surfing community, you’ll find it all here. Dive in and ride the current with us as we build a thriving river surfing scene on the beautiful Animas River!
Once a fringe river sport relegated to natural anomalies like the Snake River’s Lunch Counter …
On September 14, 2024, the Animas River Surfers took part in the Valkyrie Relay Race …
The Animas
River Levels Check current USGS Level Information
What People are Saying
Public Feedback
“Writing in support of building a permanent standing surf wave on the Animas river in town. This is something that should have happened decades ago in our town. The economic boost will be massive. We need to be the leaders of positive river recreation, not reactionary to the process. Every town that has built one of these has said why didn’t we do this sooner! I will help any way possible to get this build. Thank you.”
John Brennan
Durango, CO
“I am very excited and supportive of the potential expansion of the river community with a well designed surf wave that remains navigable to boaters and friendly to fisheries. I have a young son and anything that encourages him to engage with the river in a fun, safe way is a win to me.”
Claire C.
Mancos Rafter
I am a strong supporter of the Animas River Surfers and their goals to enhance the river’s accessibility and recreational opportunities. The low flow wave project has the potential to transform Durango into a premier destination for river enthusiasts, and I am proud to support the Animas River Surfers in making this vision a reality.
Kory S.
Animas User Since 1997
We invite you to share your ideas, questions, and inspiration with us!
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Please Support
Our Community Partners
supporters
Supporting the Animas River Surfers goes beyond hitting the waves—it’s also about engaging with the generous supporters who make our vision possible. Our supporters, local businesses and organizations, play a crucial role in bringing the our projects to life. By engaging with these partners, you directly contribute to the vitality of our community and show appreciation for their commitment to enhancing Durango’s outdoor recreation scene. Every interaction helps build a stronger, more interconnected community. We encourage you to explore these fantastic businesses, whose support is integral to our mission, and enjoy the unique products and services they offer. Let’s ride the wave of community spirit together!