Looking to stare out into the darkness in the pursuit of understanding the vastness beyond our planet? Or maybe you simply enjoy the beauty of an unimpeded night sky? You’ve come to the right place. New Mexico stargazing is like no other stargazing destination due to its vast locations without city lights obscuring your view.

Capulin Volcano National Monument

To many, a volcano might not be the first place that comes to mind when one mentions New Mexico stargazing. However, in this case, it should be. Capulin Volcano National Monument is a long-dormant cinder-cone volcano that provides insight into northeastern New Mexico’s diverse geological history. Moreover, the national monument provides visitors with another unique opportunity: Stargazing. The peak is International Dark Sky Association Gold-Tier Certified. Hence, it is some of the darkest and most unpolluted sky available to visitors almost anywhere in the world.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park

On the other side of northern New Mexico, Chaco Culture National Historic Site presents visitors with another gold-tier certified dark sky. Chaco Culture National Historical Park is a concentration of ancestral lands and sites of the Pueblo people that sits between Albuquerque and Farmington. The national park service has taken many steps to preserve the area’s culture and mystery. As a result, the “Chaco Night Sky Program” was created. Through this program, some 14,000 visitors a year can view the amazingly dark night sky of New Mexico from the Chaco observatory and park telescopes.

Fort Union National Monument

Looking for a little history intermixed with New Mexico stargazing? Fort Union National Monument offers the best of both worlds. Established in 1851, Fort Union was designed to help defend sections of the Santa Fe trail as settlers moved westwards. Additionally, it provided the newly minted U.S territory with a military influence. Uniquely, the fort’s location is very remote and the neighboring hills protect it from the I-25 corridor’s development. At Fort Union, view some of the Milky Way’s most complex formations through the park’s telescopes and evening programs.

Cosmic Campground

In Gila National Forest, there are plenty of outdoor activities and opportunities for recreation. Above all, the forest has a campground dedicated to New Mexico stargazing. Cosmic Campground is a camping site dedicated to being an international dark sky sanctuary. In addition, visitors can experience a 360-degree unobstructed view of the beautiful night sky of New Mexico.  The campground even hosts ‘star parties’ with a partner group called “Friends of the Cosmic Campground.”

Rio Chama Rafting Trip

Convinced yet that New Mexico is one of the best states for stargazing? For those who want to stargaze with an extra dose of excitement, we bring you the Chama River Canyon Wilderness! Starting near Tierra Amarilla, visitors and families can float down sections of the Rio Chama. By day, discover the many red-rock canyon walls and badlands that inspired artist Georgia O’Keefe. In the evening, experience New Mexico stargazing after a day full of swimming and class II rapids. The high elevation and seclusion of the area provide visitors with the best and clearest night sky New Mexico has to offer.

Looking to hunt for stars atop an ancient volcano, aside from age-old Puebloan ruins, or among the walls of a military fort? Or maybe stargazing beside the flow of a wild and scenic river is more your style. Then, look no further! If you are interested in a float down the Rio Chama under the stars, learn more about New Mexico River Adventures and New Mexico Family Vacations. As one of the top-rated Rio Chama rafting outfitters, we would love to prove to you that New Mexico is one of the best states for stargazing!

Did you know our headquarters are located on ancestral Puebloan lands that have been inhabited for over 10,000 years? At NMRA, we strive to educate our guests on this rich Indigenous history, as all our river trips float through historically significant areas where petroglyphs and other markers of ancient human settlements can be found. We can’t wait to show you around the Upper Rio Grande Valley!

This history informs the contemporary cultural landscape of New Mexico, where 19 different sovereign Pueblo nations are found, 8 of which are located within 50 miles of our headquarters. The Early Spanish conquistadores called the various Indigenous communities that they encountered “Pueblos,” which translates to “people” or “towns” in Spanish. So, although the Indigenous nations in New Mexico are all called “Pueblos,” each of these communities have different traditions and speak different languages depending on the regions in which they reside.

Petroglyphs along the Upper Rio Grande Valley

If you keep your eyes peeled while you float down the Rio Grande, symbols may begin to emerge from the dark basalt boulders lining the riverbank. Snakes, lizards and human figures are among the depictions that decorate the banks and provide a glimpse into the ways of the ancient Pueblo communities that lived along the river valley tens of thousands of years ago. The petroglyphs found in the areas surrounding our headquarters and on our Rio Grande trips are largely from three different time periods. There are petroglyphs from the Archaic Period, the Ancestral Pueblo period (1300 – 1600 A.D.) and from the period following European contact. The Rio Grande was a vital life force for these civilizations, just as it continues to be today for us here at NMRA, and for the many different communities that live, farm, work and play along the river from Colorado to Texas.

Oral Histories and Archaeological Theories

There are a variety of local oral histories and archaeological theories that attempt to pinpoint the migration patterns and the historical timeline of the earliest human inhabitants of this river valley. The six Tewa-speaking Pueblos that are located along the Rio Grande between Taos and Santa Fe, have the same origin stories. It goes as follows:

“The origin traditions begin with how the Tewa emerged into the world in the distant north. The place is Sandy Place Lake, thought to be located in southern Colorado. Soon after emergence, the Tewa were split into two people, the Summer and Winter People, and were sent to opposite places on the landscape and tasked with finding the “middle place,” or the locations of their eventual historic villages. The Summer People traveled along the western side of the Rio Grande eating fruits, and the Winter People journeyed along the eastern side eating deer and elk. On their travels southward the people stopped twelve times, and these stops are represented as ancient villages. Eventually the two peoples came together in the Rio Grande valley …” (Duwe and Cruz 2019).

As this origin story and the numerous petroglyphs found along the Rio Grande suggests, the valley that we float through on all of our Rio Grande rafting is both incredibly scenic and uniquely significant to the many different populations that call this region home. Once the Tewa people encountered the Rio Grande Valley, they began farming and establishing their villages in the area. Unlike other nomadic tribes that would move around seasonally or as food reserves fluctuated, the Tewa people have resided in the same region since they first arrived. This is one of the reasons that the Taos Pueblo is one of the longest continually inhabited communities in the United States.

Curious to Learn More?

After you get off the river with us and you’re inspired to explore more of the petroglyph-rich mesas of Northern New Mexico, be sure to plan a tour with the Mesa Prieta Petroglyph Project. Located just 20 miles south of our headquarters, Mesa Prieta is home to over 100,000 petroglyphs and numerous other formations of great archaeological significance.

Let’s Get on the River!

Book a trip with New Mexico River Adventures on the Rio Grande River! Whether you are looking for exhilarating class IV rapids or a scenic and relaxing float, we’ll point out the petroglyphs along the way.

One of the most amazing things about the fall season is that while the temperatures get cooler, the colors of the landscape get warmer. And thus, a popular fall activity is simply going somewhere to watch the leaves change color as summer turns into autumn. So if you are in the area, and searching for somewhere to see the fall colors in New Mexico, here are some activities for you!

Gila Wilderness

The Gila Wilderness is a federal Wilderness area in the U.S. Located near Silver City, New Mexico. This Wilderness area provides over 3 Million acres of mountain scenery and primitive recreation to those who wish for a more wild take on their autumn adventure. Hike to the Gila Cliff Dwellings, explore the Catwalk Recreation Area or watch the evening stars at the Cosmic Campground. The Gila Wilderness can offer a visitor an unforgettable experience packed with New Mexico’s fall foliage, and so much more.

Cumbres & Toltec Railroad

For a more rustic and old-fashioned view of fall in New Mexico, is the Cumbres and Toltec scenic railroad. This is the longest and highest steam railroad in the United States. Riders can take the 64-mile journey from Chama, NM to Antonito, CO. While zigzagging through colorful forests, experience some of the best rocky mountain scenery that both states have to offer. The railroad is an adventure the whole family can enjoy from grandchild to grandparent. For those who want a more relaxing view of the New Mexico Rockies, this ride might be for you.

Chama Rafting Trip

The Rio Chama is located just 35 minutes northwest of Española, NM. There is no better way to experience the fall color in New Mexico than from the Chama Canyon Wilderness! Enjoy wild whitewater, primitive solitude, good camping, and the vibrancy of fall all on the same trip.

New Mexico River Adventures offers a number of rafting trips on the Rio Chama in New Mexico. Aside from our regular 3 Day Rio Chama rafting trip departures, each of our specialty trips only runs once a year, so booking early is key.

Aspen Vista Trail

Not too far from Santa Fe is the Aspen Vista trail that leads to the top of Ski Santa Fe. This 10-mile round trip rugged forest service road is best hiked or biked, especially in the autumn. The multiple overlooks of the southern portion of Carson National Forest provide excellent views of the New Mexico fall foliage. Don’t miss the aspens show off a beautiful mix of orange, red, and yellow from the summit.

U.S. 64 West: Taos-to-Chama

One of the most scenic fall drives in the U.S. is just west of Taos on U.S route 64. This drive takes you over the famous Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and keeps going west into Carson National Forest. Relish in the lush and colorful forested mountains, accompanied by vast panoramic views at Brazos summit. The drive down towards Tierra Amarilla is equally as beautiful. Once you arrive, continue North towards Chama or continue south towards Abiquiu and its reservoir.

Whether you’re taking an autumn vacation, or looking for a weekend getaway, there are many ways to appreciate the fall colors in New Mexico! As New Mexico’s top-rated river outfitter, we at New Mexico River Adventures know how to plan an epic adventure. Whether you’re looking for New Mexico kayaking, want to experience a unique SUP trip, or have questions about Rio Chama rafting, we are your one-stop shop! Book a trip with New Mexico River Adventures today!

Every year, in the first week of October, thousands of hot air balloons take off from a park in Albuquerque to fill the skies with a brightly-colored airshow. This hot air balloon fest in Albuquerque attracts thousands of visitors every year, but 2022 will be different. This year is the balloon festival’s fiftieth anniversary, which means the event will be bigger and better than ever! This means more balloons, more fun, and more things to explore while in the Northern New Mexico area. 

Dawn Patrol

Dawn patrol is the nickname given to the balloon pilots up and at it before everyone else. Before sunrise, anywhere from a single pilot to a small group of them will lift off before sunrise in order to check weather conditions and gauge wind for the upcoming day of flying. In the morning light, the few balloons light up the sky and give a taste of shows yet to come. This is a long-held tradition of the festival, and even though it begins quite early at 6:00 am, it is often the event many people are excited for.

Mass Ascension

Mass Ascension is the colloquial name for the main event of the Albuquerque Balloon festival. Following dawn patrol and some other events including the national anthem, hundreds of balloons begin to take off from the festival field over a two-hour period. Visitors and guests can walk around the field as balloons are constantly being set up and inflated, and watch as they all take off. The sky soon fills with a colorful array of patterns around the festival, making for an excellent show.

Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway

The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway is one of Albuquerque’s biggest draws. An aerial tramway that ascends one of America’s tallest urban peaks, cresting the Sandia mountains crest at 10,378 feet. The tram ride features excellent views of the mountains as you ascend up the side, giving amazing panoramic views of the Albuquerque area once you reach the top. If exploring the high elevation finds one tired or famished, there is also the TEN3 restaurant at the top, providing dining services to all guests. 

The Evening Glow

One of the last things any guest should plan on seeing at the hot air balloon fest in Albuquerque is the Evening Glow event. Just before sunset, many pilots will inflate their balloon, but keep them tethered to the ground. Once darkness falls, they will intermittently ignite the burners, thus igniting the balloons, which show off the amazing patterns and spectacular colors of the balloon’s fabric in the dark. They will also organize synchronized burns where they all burn at once, lighting up the field of tethered balloons. This event is generally accompanied by a firework show that is well worth the watch!

Whitewater Rafting

Northern New Mexico is famous for its renowned whitewater runs, and if one plans on being in Albuquerque for multiple days of the balloon festival, it is well worth the trip. Iconic runs on the Racecourse, the Orilla Verde section, and even the Rio Chama provide guests with an exciting, but safe, adventure along the scenery of the beautiful Rio Grande Gorge or the Chama Canyon Wilderness. These amazing trips are also remarkably close to both Taos and Santa Fe, two very artistic and eclectic cities that deserve a day to themselves after a fun day on the river.

The 50th Anniversary of the Albuquerque balloon festival is bound to be a fun time, but there is too much to do to limit yourself to just the festival. So be sure to watch for family adventures anywhere from the river, to the mountains, to the air!

A beautiful, meandering road following the scenic Rio Grande River Valley connects the iconic towns of Taos and Santa Fe. This leisurely drive is rich in food, art & culture, and outdoor activities. A must for any New Mexico vacation. Driving Taos to Santa Fe can take as little as an hour and a half, but we recommend taking a full day (or more) to enjoy all the amazing sites!

Driving From Taos To Santa Fe:

• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Get Directions
• Stops Include scenic driving, historical sites, river activities & rafting, art, culture, food & beverage.

Breakfast to Power Your Trip

No day can properly begin without a good breakfast, and Taos has some amazing spots. Gutiz is a wonderful French Latin fusion featuring decadent French toast, Egg’s Benedict, and so much more. If you’re hoping for a quick bite, grab a coffee and pastry from either Wild Leaven Bakery or Bearclaw Bakery and Café.

With baked goods in hand, make a short drive north of town to the Rio Grande Gorge Suspension Bridge. Enjoy sweeping views, a staggering 800 feet above the river, and a glimpse at the famous Taos Box. Watch as New Mexico River Adventures’ exciting Rio Grande whitewater rafting adventures float below. Vendors are often stationed at the Gorge Bridge visitor center offering souvenirs for sale.

Pit Stops to Swim, Fish, or Hike

Expansive vistas continue as you make your way via NM-567 past the Bridge further into the Rio Grande National Monument. This road is generally passable as long as the weather has been clear recently. If it’s been dry, make your way down some switchbacks overlooking the Rio Grande and cross it via the Taos Junction Bridge.

With plenty of spots to swim, fish, or even hiking trails lining the road you can tailor your own adventure. Keep a close eye for pictographs hidden throughout the rocks. Always practice leave no trace when out and about, packing all trash out and admire the pictographs from a distance.

Cool Off in the Rio Grande River

20 minutes past Taos Junction Bridge brings you to the small artist community of Pilar to link up with Hwy 68. Enjoy a cup of coffee or cold drink at the Pilar Yacht Club and Café located at the intersection. Take a right onto Hwy 68 and begin your drive right along the Rio Grande! You might see our red rafts navigating the Class II-III rapids of the racecourse in the summertime. Our outpost is about 10 minutes from Pilar.

Feel free to swing in and ask about our trips or check out our awesome t-shirt selection for a souvenir. Looking for a full-day adventure? Check out our full-day Rio Grande rafting trip. If not and you’re feeling hungry you can pop across the street to the Blue Heron Brewery for a pizza and a beer. Otherwise, continue down the meandering road for a glass of wine at Vivac, or Black Mesa a few minutes away. The small community of Dixon is a short detour from Hwy 68 and offers a deli and local produce selection.

Experience Art and Culture

Continue south towards Santa Fe, keeping a close eye out for farmers’ market stands in the summertime. Eventually, you’ll continue on Hwy 68 further south leaving the Rio Grande Valley. Santa Fe offers an assortment of food, museums, and local artists to complete your New Mexican vacation. For more information on Santa Fe history & culture, one of our favorite resources is History in Santa Fe.

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier New Mexico whitewater rafting outfitter. Our trips range from family-friendly to extreme adventure. Our guides are having a blast on the rivers in Santa Fe each and every day. Won’t you join us? Book your Santa Fe white water rafting trip online today!

Looking to travel across the American southwest? When planning a road trip, starting from Las Vegas and traveling to Santa Fe is the perfect way to do it! Las Vegas and Santa Fe are both beautiful cities that everyone should visit, and there are many amazing places to stop at in between. We hope you’re ready to have some fun!

Red Cliff National Conservation Area

After leaving Sin City, the first stop on your epic road trip should be Red Cliff National Conservation Area. Only two hours away from Las Vegas, the Red Cliff National Conservation Area is filled with beautiful scenery and a diverse ecosystem. This area is a transition zone between the Mojave Desert, the Great Basin, and the Colorado Plateau, so there is a fun mixture of plants and animals to see. The name comes from the beautiful red cliffs scattered throughout the 44,724-acre area. With lots of space to hike and camp, the Red Cliff National Conservation Area is the perfect stop on your southwestern adventure.

Zion National Park

The next stop on your road trip is Zion National Park! A must-do hike in the park is the Narrows. With beautiful canyon walls to walk through, the Narrows is a life-changing hike. You can make the hike as long or short as you want! The total hike is sixteen miles long, but a mile hike is just as fun. Zion is an amazing place to visit!

Grand Canyon

One of the United States’ most recognizable landmarks is the Grand Canyon. The south rim is better for first-time visitors because there is a higher number of experiences and views. The Grand Canyon has life-changing sunsets and amazing scenery. The Grand Canyon is a must-stop on your road trip!

Petroglyph National Monument

The next stop on the road trip is the Petroglyph National Monument. Petroglyphs are art on prehistoric rocks. The Petroglyph National Monuments are home to volcanic rocks that are filled with designs and carvings. There is a deep cultural significance to the Pueblo people. The area is perfect for a short stop before making it to Santa Fe.

Rio Grande del Norte National Monument

The final stop on your road trip is Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. The monument is a massive plain cut by deep canyons. There are many exciting outdoor activities at the monument including white water rafting! White water rafting on the Rio Grande is the perfect way to enjoy the monument. After these five incredible stops, we hope you enjoyed your epic road trip from Las Vegas to Santa Fe!

Looking for adventure after your Las Vegas to Santa Fe Road Trip?

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier adventure outfitter for Santa Fe white water rafting, New Mexico kayaking, climbing, and many other activities in the area. We’re located in Embudo — just 45 miles from Santa Fe. Book your next Santa Fe adventure in the Land of Enchantment today!

Looking to get a permit for a Rio Chama rafting river float trip? The Land of Enchantment is filled with many gems, but a Rio Chama river float trip is sure to deliver an unforgettable overnight experience. A 23-mile float along this Rio Grande tributary allows you to dive into the landscape that inspired Georgia O’Keefe and many others. The popcorn clouds, blue skies, and stunning colored cliffs will leave you with that breath of awe that only comes from floating down a river.

This Class II-III stretch is permitted from April 15 to September 15 with highly variable flows. Here are three tips to get your own DIY Chama adventure underway!

1. Understanding the Seasonal Flows

The 23 miles of the Rio Chama from El Valdo Ranch to Chavez Canyon are permitted from April 15-September 15. You can sign up for a lottery assigned launch date between December 1 and January 31. There are two-time frames within this permitted season: early season and release season.

The early season runs from April 15-July 15 with water levels reflecting inflow to upstream reservoirs. No water level is guaranteed during this time, making it tricky for trip planning. July 16-September 15 is Release Season and flows are guaranteed on weekends as water is sourced from reservoir storage.

2. Planning a Rio Chama River Float Trip

Once you’ve snagged a winning lottery ticket, the planning begins! With water levels variable, it’s not a bad idea to have a backup plan to have a successful trip down the mighty Chama.

Keep an eye on flows and feel free to contact the BLM office to see what they have planned. 200 CFS and below, a canoe or inflatable kayak is the way to go. The one class III can be portaged albeit with a bit of effort if you aren’t comfortable testing your low water skills.

300-400 CFS is enough water to squeak along smaller rafts. For anything 14 feet or larger, we recommend a minimum of 500 CFS. Three days is the perfect window to casually float and still have time for exploring the many side canyons.

3. Didn’t Pull a Rio Chama River Float Permit?

Sometimes the stars don’t align, and the permits don’t get pulled. Never fear, we still have some options to explore the Chama River. Permits that were won, but not pulled are back up for grabs beginning April 1.

If you still weren’t able to snag one of those golden tickets in the second round, a slight adjustment of plans can ensure your Chama adventure dreams live on. Just downstream of Chavez Canyon takeout there is a popular day stretch along Forest Road 151 to Big Eddy.

This scenic stretch includes some class II-III whitewater as it meanders its way along the cottonwood groves and sandstone cliffs. With campsites available at the Rio Chama campground, your land-based river adventure can still be filled with the fresh enchanting air of northern New Mexico.

If you are uncertain about taking a DIY rafting trip, New Mexico River Adventures takes pride in providing a safe yet exhilarating adventure for all. The Rio Chama is a great option for white water rafting near Taos. Learn more about all of the available options for whitewater rafting in New Mexico with New Mexico River Adventures.

Top 4 Youth Group Activities in New Mexico

New Mexico has tons of youth group activities for those who are searching to mature and learn new skills through the exploration of, and interaction with, the land. Our list ranges from Boy Scouts of America ranches to faith-based wilderness treks, here are the top 4 youth group activities in New Mexico. 

1. Philmont Scout Ranch

Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico, Philmont Scout Ranch is a National High Adventure Base that is also home to the National Scouting Museum and the Seton Memorial Library. The ranch is a working ranch that maintains small herds of cattle and other livestock. 

Philmont treks are not for the faint of heart. If your child is interested in exploring land through backpacking treks or would enjoy seeing the inner workings of what it means to be a rancher make sure they meet all the requirements for signing up. Check out all of the adventures at Philmont Scout Ranch! (Must be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America) 

2. Gorham Scout Ranch

Located in Chimayo, New Mexico, Gorham Scout Ranch is home to 2,650 acres of adventure. The acres of adventure include a 40-foot-tall climbing tower, half-Olympic sized pool, ATV-ing, rocket launching, high ropes course, opportunity to work on First Aid, and—of course—s’mores. The camp is open to boys and girls of all ages.

Although the pandemic is not over yet, Gorham Scout Ranch has not had a single COVID-19 case in all of 2021! If your child is looking for a more immersive experience than staying in a cabin/lodge, Gorham Scout Ranch offers a ‘Webelos Week in the Woods’ (participants must be entering the fourth or fifth grade for this program).

3. Wilderness Trek 

Wilderness Trek is a faith-based outdoor adventure program located in several states, including New Mexico. This experience provides humans of all ages the potential to learn leadership skills, and outdoor skills.

Group and individual trek options are available, and anyone can see the Northern New Mexico area. The individual trips available include College Week, Female Leadership, High school Discipleship, Mother and Daughter, Father and Son, and Student-Athlete. Check out Wilderness Trek for mostly week-long immersive outdoor adventures that are sure to change your life forever.

4. Glorieta Camps

Glorieta Camps is a Christian summer adventure camp operating out of an area near Santa Fe, New Mexico. From school to family retreats and even an opportunity to build your own retreat. Glorieta Camps contain an offering for everyone in your family. It doesn’t end there, for Glorieta Camps even also offers races! The races include Tatonka 5k and 10k runs to the Big Mountain Enduro race.

The staff at Glorieta are trained and passionate about providing a morally, emotionally, and physically sound environment for every camper there. If you and/or your child are looking to challenge the body in order to inspire the mind (a fundamental principle at Glorieta). Then check out the camp for your next summer adventure.

New Mexico River Adventures is your premier whitewater rafting & adventure company. Our daily trips depart to the Rio Grande River and Rio Chama. From family-friendly to exciting adventures, we’re sure to have a trip for everyone. Join us this summer and cool off in the scenic canyons of New Mexico. Happy adventuring, and be sure to stop by New Mexico River Adventures before or after your other adventure!

Angel Fire New Mexico offers its own unique set of arts and outdoor adventure. Just 30 minutes East of Taos this village in the Rocky Mountains is home to Angel Fire Resort, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and many other sights and attractions sure to please the whole family! Come visit Angel Fire!

1. Angel Fire Bike Park and Ski Resort

If you are looking for adventure and plenty of fun this summer, then Angel Fire Resort may be the place for you! Beginning in 1966 as a small ski operation in northern New Mexico this resort now packs four seasons of adventure and experiences for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Sitting at an elevation of 10,650 ft above sea level and boasting a whopping 60+ miles of trails this high alpine resort offers the best mountain biking in the southwest. With purpose-built, lift-served terrain that gives you access to the 2,000 vertical feet of downhill adrenaline-pumped action. There is something available for every skill level, not to mention riding lessons, a bike shop, dining, hotel lodging, and camping at the base area!

2. Nancy Burch’s Road Runner Tours

Looking to explore Northern New Mexico’s scenic alpine forests? Why not do it by horse back! Nancy Burch’s Road Runner tours allows you to do just that. Just 30 to 40 minutes from Taos or a 2-hour drive from Santa Fe you and your family could be exploring Carson National Forest or the Enchanted Circle with some four-legged friends. Never ridden a horse? They offer beginner to advanced lessons. Nancy Burch offers tours spanning from 1 hour to all day trips making this an exiting get away versatile enough for all ages.

3. Balloons Over Angel Fire

Seated in the Moreno Valley the Balloon Festival in Angel Fire offers one of the only high- altitude locations for balloon launches in the US. Spend time getting to know the pilots, learning the history of ballooning and how these feats of aviation work as they take the imagination to new heights. This sunrise event is the perfect morning to a fathers day weekend.

4. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is an excellent way to honor and remember those who have participated in serving our country. Dedicated to Victor David Westphall and the sixteen men who perished in Con Thien, Vietnam, this memorial seeks to serve as a reminder to the fragility of life and the need to preserve and pursue peace.

5. Enchanted Circle Pottery

This ceramic studio and kiln features wood-fired sculptures and pottery from artists Kevin and JoAnn DeKeuster. Their process utilizes Japanese pottery techniques and woodfired kilns which add one-of-a-kind finishes and glazes to an already unique collection of ceramic arts. You can find their studio between Taos Valley and Angel Fire on highway 64 making it a great pit stop for those on long road trips or those just seeking some beautifully crafted art for home!

Only an hour away from Angel Fire is the best whitewater rafting in New Mexico! Find high adventure on the Rio Grande and Rio Chama with New Mexico River Adventures. Our family-friendly floats take place in the scenic Orilla Verde section of the Rio Grande while our whitewater rafting trips feature the famous Rio Grande Racecourse & Taos Box sections. There’s no better way to spend a hot summer day in New Mexico. View our New Mexico whitewater rafting trips today!

Looking for some of the best outdoor jobs in New Mexico? Join the team at New Mexico River Adventures! We’re actively hiring new and experienced guide staff along with many other supporting positions each year. Our family owned operation strives to provide the greatest outdoor adventures and whitewater rafting in New Mexico. Guess what? Our team gets to have a lot of fun too! Keep reading to learn more about becoming a river guide.

1. Connecting With Rivers

There is no doubt that many people have or develop strong connections with rivers.  Rivers are very powerful forces in nature that will draw you in.  There is nothing like the connectivity you feel when you surf your first wave and delicately carve back and forth while watching the speed of the current swiftly pass you by on its way downstream.  Listen to the river sing sweet songs as you retell the stories of the day with your fellow Guides.   It’s not uncommon at all for river guides to work hard all-day taking care of their gusts through fun whitewater and when the day is done, load up their kayak or raft and head right back out for more with friends.  The river tends to draw you in and help connect you with all your surroundings including the canyon, flora, fauna as well as the friends you’re out their taking it all in with.

2. Learning To Lead

One of the most empowering aspects of river guiding is growing your leaderships skills.  Many career river guides started out as young as 18 years old.  To be put in charge of safely and informatively guiding groups, many of whom are much older than you, for a day or longer, is quite empowering.  Make sure to choose the right Guide Training program which will give you all the tools you need to excel as a guide and evolve into a day and multi-day trip leader with a wide variety of responsibilities beyond simply steering the boat downstream.

3. Community

When you become a raft guide, you enter a large community of great, like minded people.  You gain access to some of the most beautiful parts of the planet.  This world of river guides always feels much smaller than it actually is.  It doesn’t matter if you choose to check out a different river in the Southern Hemisphere in the winter or check out a close by river on our day off, you will be welcomed as a kindred spirit into the local guiding community often times with instant river running partners to explore and adventure.

4. Career Opportunities

One of our favorite comments from people is “when are you going to start your real job or career?”.  Guess what…You Have!  Many career river guides started their river life not knowing that it would become their life long passion.  If it speaks to you, you will soon see how many different places and amazing opportunities exist for you.  Rivers can take you all around the world and introduce you to unique and amazing people places and cultures.  Think about any number of southern hemisphere destinations during your off season like Chile, Zambia or New Zealand as premier destinations.  All forward!

5. Become a Kayaker

I challenge you to find a job that is more fun than being a river guide.  Our office is a beautiful canyon and you typically have the opportunity to learn other ways of paddling downstream on your off time (cough cough New Mexico kayaking).  With certified instructors on the staff, there is usually a bribe you can offer for an after-work lesson and then you’re off.  Even if river guiding doesn’t become your career, you will have leaned other ways to enjoy the river for a lifetime!

Becoming A River Guide At New Mexico River Adventures

Excited about this opportunity? New Mexico River Adventures as a great training program that offers new river guides all of the experience and support they need to get started. Don’t let another adventure-less summer pass you by. Apply online today!

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