Whitewater Rafting Down the Red-Rock Colored San Miguel River

The water splashing off the front of the raft onto my face was cold. But, I was so fascinating by the shifting shadows on the red-rock walls towering over the San Miguel River that I didn't mind the jolt. Rafting down the San Miguel, on a stretch near Telluride, Colorado, was an easy cruise because the river had peaked a few weeks early this year. So, we had only three class III rapids and a few technicals, before we pulled out at the end of the ride. The San Miguel is a good choice this time of year for vacationers who have never gone rafting, or want a moderately bumping ride through incredibly beautiful country. If there's a river within driving distance of your home, chances are good there's a rafting company waiting to take you for a "time out" in a natural setting. You can find rafting companies near you at Rafting America

Photo courtesy of R Friedland