New Mexico

Everything from mild family rafting trips to heart-stopping whitewater rushes is available in New Mexico. Two rivers, the Rio Grande and the Rio Chama provide several options for New Mexico whitewater rafting trips near Taos.

Rio Grande Rafting Trips (Class II-IV+):The Rio Grande has several sections that range from Class II to Class IV+. The Wild and Scenic Taos Box is an excellent choice for thrill-seekers, while the Racecourse Run is great for more timid folks and beginning rafters. Rio Grande rafting trips run April through September.

Rio Chama Rafting Trips (Class II-III):A tributary to the Rio Grande, the Rio Chama is in northern New Mexico, and offers a 32-mile overnight rafting trip with astounding scenery, noteworthy wildlife, and fun whitewater rapids. The sandstone walls of the Rio Chama canyon rise 1500 feet into the sky in places. Rafting trips on the Rio Chama run throughout the spring, and there are sporadic releases in the summer and fall.

More About Rafting in New Mexico

The rivers have cut deep canyons through the rugged desert terrain creating a dramatic setting for any New Mexico river trip. The pastel desert colors are a tranquil backdrop to the swift moving rivers. Juniper, cedar, and sage fill the air with sweet desert smells. Several species of wildlife including elk, bears, cougar, beavers, and Bald Eagles are seen on river trips in New Mexico. Trout fishing is superb, and New Mexico rivers are home to the native Rio Grande cutthroat trout. The stunning beauty and classic American west landscapes of the Rio Grande and Rio Chama river canyons have attracted artists—including Georgia O’Keefe—musicians, fishermen, and of course whitewater enthusiasts.