Deal of the Week: Colorado Whitewater Trips (NGA Web Exclusive!)

Photograph courtesy of 4 Corners Whitewater. See previously featured deals.

Calling all river rats: Colorado-based 4 Corners Whitewater is offering 50 percent off its domestic rafting trips departing during the month of May. Options range from a two-hour float through downtown Durango to a three-day raft 'n hike combo—but if you ask us, the "Two Day Wilderness Overnight" is the way to go. Put in way up in the San Juan Mountains, just outside the historic mining town of Silverton (pop. 500, give or take), and follow the Upper Animas River for two days of Class III, IV, and V rapids—plus breathtaking views of the Weminuche Wilderness all around. You'll camp in an aspen grove near a century-old miners' graveyard (warning: river guides love ghost stories) and take out at Tacoma just in time to catch the famed Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge train to Durango ($245 with the 50 percent discount; price includes all camping and rafting gear, meals, and the one-way train ticket). 

THE CATCH: No beginners and no one under the age of 15 allowed—this trip is for intermediate and advanced rafters only. The day before put in, all rafters take a practice swim in the Animas River near Durango, which means you'll have to spend that night near town on your own dime (for camping and lodging info, contact the Durango Area Tourism Office at 800-525-8855 or durangobusiness.org/tourism) 

I'M IN: Call 888-RAFT-YAK and be sure to mention you found this deal on National Geographic ADVENTURE's website.