Animas River is a free-flowing river that offers expert only terrain in the upper Animas Gorge. Once it leaves the canyon walls it flows into a wide valley and is mostly flatwater. This bottom section offers a pleasant paddle just south of town. The flow is quick with occasional rocky sections. You will pass through the Ute Indian Reservation. Permits are not required for floating but are for parking or using their acces point at the takeout. For permit info call 970-563-4525.