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 […]
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!
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 […]
Rock climbing New Mexico is filled with a diversity that is rarely rivaled with fewer crowds, Whether you are a pebble wrestler, a traditional adventurer, summit bagger, or bolt clipper, New Mexico has a place for weekend warriors and dirtbags alike.
1. For The Pebble Wrestler: Box Canyon In Cibola National Forest
Location: Magdalena, New Mexico
Just about every corner of the state is brimming with established boulders waiting for you to explore. From the roadside classics to the backcountry epics, the land of enchantment is overflowing with possibility. Box Canyon will keep you stoked with its quality rhyolite and acrobatic movements. In addition to spectacular bouldering, you’ll find moderate sport routes in the 5.10-5.11 range. You’ll find camping on site close to your beloved boulders, however many folks like to stay 10 miles away at Water Canyon Campground.
2. For the Traditional Adventurer: Jemez Mountains
Location: Sandoval County, NM
No proper adventure epic can begin with a simple approach, and Capulin Canyon of the Dome Wilderness does not fall short. A steep descent traversing the remains of wildfires in 1996 and 2011 promise a rugged start to the day, but soon make way to extraordinary, Indian Creek quality splitter cracks. Yep, that’s right, splitters in New Mexico. However, the welded tuff here is not for the inexperienced. Soft rock and the backcountry nature of this crag are not to be taken lightly. With summer temps roasting in the canyon, we recommend this crag for a winter four wheel drive adventure. This is one of our favorite places for rock climbing in New Mexico!
3. For the Summit Bagger: Wheeler Peak
Location: Taos Ski Valley, NM
At 13,167 feet, Wheeler Peak of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains is the highest point in New Mexico. No technical climbing is required making it a great rest day activity for those of you whose fingers need a break. There are several options to ascend the peak including the longer scenic route. Bull of the Woods Trail (Wheeler Peak Trail) offers a 16 mile round trip journey to the top of this mountain giant. For a shorter option, the Williams Lake trail is roughly 7 miles round trip with the final 1000 feet comprised of scree. Wheeler Peak is located in the Carson National Forest, but most trail options cross private property at some point. Be sure to respect the landowners when out adventuring! Best season is May through November, although start early to avoid monsoons in the summer months.
4. For the Bolt Clipper: Big Block
Location: Albuquerque, NM
Big Block is a sprinkled with a smattering of grades complimented by easy access and close enough to Albuquerque for beer at the end of the day. It makes for a short and accessible day of rock climbing in New Mexico! A short, marked trail leads you to this lovely nugget of limestone ready to provide a day of climbing moderates and a few challenging routes to keep you on your toes. With little sunlight making its way into the canyon, Big Block is a great summer reprise.
5. For the Top Rope Hero: Sugarite Canyon State Park
For the beginner leader, Sugarite offers a playground of possibilities. While all the 40-50 foot basalt climbs are able to be led, they also have the ability to be top roped. Most are bolted and easily set up, while some require a bit of static line or webbing and ingenuity to get going. 8000 feet up, the SE facing walls like to soak in the sun making it a tad warm at times. The state park requires a $5 day fee or a $10 camping fee to stay in Soda Pocket campground. While you dirtbags may scoff at this, that $10 camping fee includes a lovely, refreshing shower!
New to rock climbing New Mexico? Join New Mexico River Adventures for one of our various beginner climbing trips! It’s the perfect way to experience our various sandstone and limestone walls. Book online today!
Rock climbing New Mexico is filled with a diversity that is rarely rivaled with fewer crowds, Whether you are a pebble wrestler, a traditional adventurer, summit bagger, or bolt clipper, New Mexico has a place for weekend warriors and dirtbags alike. 1. For The Pebble Wrestler: Box Canyon In Cibola National Forest Location: Magdalena, New […]
Looking for the absolute best kayaking classes in New Mexico? Your search is over!

1. New Mexico River Adventures (Inflatable Kayaking, ‘duckies’)
2. New Mexico River Adventures (Hardshell Kayaking)
- RIO CHAMA 3 DAY WHITEWATER KAYAK INSTRUCTION
- PRIVATE OR CUSTOM WHITEWATER KAYAK TRIPS WITH INSTRUCTION
- 2 DAY BEGINNER WHITEWATER KAYAK INSTRUCTION
3. University of New Mexico
New Mexico River Adventures is your premier outfitter for family-friendly or challenging river adventures on the Rio Grande and Rio Chama. From multi-day trips to half-day trips, there’s a trip for everyone! Bring your group of family and friends for a smashing good time whitewater rafting and kayaking in New Mexico.
Looking for the absolute best kayaking classes in New Mexico? Your search is over! White water adventuring is one of the epitomes of what it means to visit New Mexico. And one of the best ways to explore New Mexico’s white water is kayaking! Plus, after learning some basic kayaking skills, you can travel places […]
A New Mexico family vacation is family time on steroids; but the pressure to plan a perfect itinerary can often feel daunting. Will everyone be happy? Will everyone be safe? Dearest human, have no fear, this blog post is here! The following six items offer a wide range of itinerary amendments that will undoubtedly create the memorable, adventurous family trip you hope for while also invoking a smile within every member of your family.
Without further delay, here is our guide to the perfect New Mexico family vacation!
- Meow Wolf
- White Sands National Park
- La Fonda Inn
- Luna Mystica
- Aceq Restaurant
- Carlsbad Caverns
Meow Wolf is an interactive art museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The museum uses music and/or video to transport audiences of all ages into a creative world of experimental storytelling. Meow Wolf’s permanent installation, House of Eternal Return (HOER), supported by George R.R. Martin (Game of Thrones creator), also features a children’s learning center, cafe/bar, and music venue.
White Sands National Park, located in Tularosa Basin, creates the world’s largest gypsum (wave-like dunes) in the world. The activities at the park include walking, camping, sledding down the dunes, and much more. Plus, if your family includes someone with a little extra fur, all furry friends are welcome at White Sands.
La Fonda Inn, a member of the Historic Hotels of America, is the only hotel located on the historic Santa Fe plaza. With a four-diamond rating, and 400 years of experience, La Fonda Inn offers authentic lodging, restaurants, and no resort fees.
Luna Mystica, operating out of the Mesa of Taos, is a vintage trailer hotel and campground. Each trailer contains its own deck, bathroom, bed, and kitchen. This itinerary amendment is the epitome of the intersection of modern and vintage. If you are looking to ‘glamp,’ camp, or simply stare at the famous New Mexico starry sky, then this is the place for you and your family to stay.
Aceq Restaurant, from 5:00-9:00 p.m. in Arroyo Seco, is a local New Mexican favorite. The menu changes daily, but the chef never fails to bring spunk and flavor. Plus, if your family has allergies or special diets, Aceq offers gluten-free pasta and the menu also has special labels indicating which dishes accommodate particular allergies or special diets.
Carlsbad Caverns is located in Eddy County. Known for its limestone caves, rock formations and hiking trails, this national park is notably good for kids. Plus, if your kids are under 15, they can get in for free! The caverns are meant to be enjoyed at your own pace, and they can be accessed by elevator and/or hiking. Lastly, if you plan to visit between late-May through October, you and your family can experience a ranger program about the Brazilian free-tailed bats that live in the Cavern and watch them emerge.
At the very least, these six items should help alleviate at least some stress towards the delicate job of planning a family vacation itinerary. And, of course, be sure to add New Mexico River Adventures to your list of things to do. We offer rock-climbing to Rio Grande & Rio Chama rafting adventures for all ages where each adventure is guided by a knowledgable, friendly guide. We also can’t recommend New Mexico kayaking enough. Happy planning!
A New Mexico family vacation is family time on steroids; but the pressure to plan a perfect itinerary can often feel daunting. Will everyone be happy? Will everyone be safe? Dearest human, have no fear, this blog post is here! The following six items offer a wide range of itinerary amendments that will undoubtedly create the […]
Planning a Santa Fe adventure?
Santa Fe, a town with 310 days of yearly sunlight, is a place where adventure shines. Rich in history, Santa Fe holds the title for the oldest government seat, church, and house in the United States. The 1600s era presence of Santa Fe persists today in large part due to the 23 Native American Tribes, Nations, and Pueblos who still reside in New Mexico. In fact, 8 out of 19 Native American Pueblos remain in close proximity to Santa Fe. Additionally, Santa Fe offers thrilling outdoor activities, including Santa Fe rafting, as it sits at 7,000 feet of elevation and boasts a semi-arid steppe climate. This means that there is a myriad of hiking trails to explore on foot, bike, boat, and more!
With so much history and culture, there must be a plethora of Santa Fe adventures and things to do nearby! Check out some of our favorites as you continue to read.
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San Miguel Chapel
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Indigenous Celebrations
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Hiking Trails Near Santa Fe

1.San Miguel Chapel
San Miguel Chapel is the oldest church in the continental United States. As oral history tells it, the chapel was created by a group of Mexican Indians on behalf of orders from Franciscan friars. Although the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 partially destroyed the chapel, the present building dates from 1710 (including intense structural amendments). Furthermore, throughout history, the chapel has not only served as a place of worship; but, it has also served as an infirmary, ceremonial venue, and military basecamp. If your idea of an adventure includes walking the tightrope of time, then travel back 400 years into the past by visiting San Miguel Chapel.
2.Indigenous Celebrations
Although Indigenous celebrations are held throughout the year (excluding March, a quiet month for most Pueblos), there are five worth planning a visit around: King’s Day Celebration, St. Ildefonso Feast Day, St. Paul’s Feast Day, and the anniversary of the 1680 Pueblo Revolt and Santa Clara Feast Day. The first three mentioned events all so happen to take place within the month of January, while the latter two occur within the summer months. The celebrations often include dancing, storytelling, and feasting. If those three attributes, along with exploring and learning about other cultures, is your idea of an adventure, then mark your calendars for one—or more—of these celebrations.
3.Hiking Trails Near Santa Fe
According to All Trails, an excellent, thorough hiking app, Nambe Lake Trail is the number one hike to do in Santa Fe. The hike, beginning at the Santa Fe Ski Basin parking lot, allows you to explore the Southern Rockies. Fare warning though, it is signified as hard and is almost 7 miles long. If you are looking for an easier stroll, try Tsankawai Ruins Trail. The trail has the same star rating (4.5) as Nambe, but is only 1.5 miles long and is located in Bandelier National Monument, where a vast array of cliff dwellings and other Native ruins remain. If getting outside is your idea of an adventure, Santa Fe has plenty of hiking trails worthy of exploration.
And More!
If these three adventure ideas did not catch your eye, be sure to research the art scene in Santa Fe (Meow Wolf, for example), the food scene (La Choza, Tortilla Flats, for example), the Opera, or check out the many New Mexico Wineries. Santa Fe is a diverse town filled with diverse adventures for any and every taste—there is an adventure for everyone in your family or every part of yourself to be found in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
While not directly located in Santa Fe, this region boasts some of the best whitewater rafting in the country! The scenic Rio Chama and the Rio Grande are only an hour away. If you are looking to cool off from the New Mexico heat, look no further for our Santa Fe white water rafting adventures. Our trips depart daily during the Spring and Summer months. Check out our Rio Grande rafting and Rio Chama rafting trips today!
Planning a Santa Fe adventure? Santa Fe, a town with 310 days of yearly sunlight, is a place where adventure shines. Rich in history, Santa Fe holds the title for the oldest government seat, church, and house in the United States. The 1600s era presence of Santa Fe persists today in large part due to […]
At a variety of New Mexico wineries, the clink of a glass, the lush green of the Rio Grande, and the sweet smell of a vino legacy is waiting for you. While on your New Mexico white water rafting adventure, consider taking a tour through history, one glass at a time.
Read on to learn more about five of the best New Mexico wineries near Santa Fe to explore after white water rafting in New Mexico. Want to skip the list and go straight for the sip trip? Explore our Whitewater and Wine Tasting Day Trip!
Four hundred years ago the Spanish brought the first grapevines into the Rio Grande region. Today there is a host of New Mexico wineries that offer tastings, parings, and the pure bliss that comes from a great glass of wine and a spectacular view. Experience the tradition of excellence perfected by New Mexico. We recommend you set aside 2-3 hours per stop to fully enjoy each unique New Mexico winery.
1. Vivác Winery

Tucked into the Dixon Valley foothills, you’ll find a tasting room filled with locals and tourists alike. The heart and soul of the founding brothers and their wives, Jesse and Chris Padberg, have provided the foundation for internationally renowned wines made from the best hand-picked grapes in New Mexico. Their passion for wine extends beyond a simple glass, pouring over into an immersive tasting experience. Vivác’s knowledgeable staff will help pair wines with premium foods and chocolates including Ek.Chuah chocolates, a boutique chocolate with hand-crafted, small-lot truffles.
2. Gruet Winery
The pop of a cork and the wonderfully refreshing bubbles that come with an expert pour of Gruet wine will leave your mind wandering back to the roots of this American dream vineyard. Founder Gilbert Gruet inspired his family to continue their French tradition of Champagne excellence here in New Mexico with excellent Chardonnay, Pino Noir, and sparkling wines. Collecting a host of awards and accolades from the nation’s top sommeliers, Gruet should be on any wine lover’s list. Reservations are preferred at this tasting room.
3. Black Mesa Winery
Farmer’s markets, live music, petroglyphs, wine, and cider….. my oh my. Black Mesa Winery has nearly all you could want from fresh vegetables, local goods, and award-winning ciders and wines. This winery set in the small Rio Grande Valley town of Velarde makes a perfect pit stop on the way back to Santa Fe from a day of adventuring on the Rio Grande. Their Bite Me Hard ciders are also available on tap at a plethora of breweries in the region!
4. Herve Wine Bar
If you’re looking for a carefully crafted dinner menu paired to perfection with award-winning wines, look no further than Herve Wine Bar in Santa Fe. This tasting room a mere block away from the historic Santa Fe plaza transformed a former nightclub into a tranquil and luxurious dining experience. The French-inspired décor and ceiling-wide skylight inspire an ambiance complementing the sophisticated flavors of D.H. Lescombes wine. Finish the evening with locally ground espresso, cappuccino, or pour-over coffee and dessert. Reservations are recommended.
5. La Chiripada Winery
No list would be complete without the oldest New Mexico winery, La Chiripada. This family-run winery began in 1977 in the lush Rio Embudo Valley. Grapes for their specialty wines were carefully selected to handle the high elevation and warm summer day characteristic of the region. They boast a wide range of unique wines ranging from a spicy red Rhone-styled red to a light refreshing Blush wine. Experience the local paring of their Primavera wine with the signature spicy red and green chiles of New Mexican cuisine.
Are you ready for wine and rafting? Explore our Whitewater and Wine Tasting Day Trip to book your next exciting adventure! If you want to skip the rafting and just go wine tasting, we have a wine-tasting day tour offering!
New Mexico River Adventures takes pride in providing a safe yet exhilarating adventure for all. Explore other Santa Fe whitewater rafting trips for additional New Mexico whitewater rafting trips.
At a variety of New Mexico wineries, the clink of a glass, the lush green of the Rio Grande, and the sweet smell of a vino legacy is waiting for you. While on your New Mexico white water rafting adventure, consider taking a tour through history, one glass at a time. Vivác Winery Gruet Winery […]
Kayaking near Albuquerque, New Mexico…Yes! Just because you didn’t see kayakers on your favorite episode of Breaking Bad doesn’t mean that there aren’t incredible river kayaking opportunities in the Land of Enchantment. The only twist is that you must drive a bit north of ABQ to get the Goods! The section of the Rio Grande that flows through the big city is wide and flat, albeit nice, however, deep canyons and awesome whitewater are beckoning.
Drive North and choose from our 5 best places for kayaking near Albuquerque!
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Middle Taos Box
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The Wild and Scenic Rio Chama
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The Orilla Verde
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The Racecourse Rio Grande
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Santa Cruz Lake
1. The Middle Taos Box

Hidden away below the confluence of the Red River and The Rio Grande, in the depths of the Wild and Scenic Rio Grande Gorge, lies one of the most remote and beautiful sections of river in New Mexico. The payoff is big for this one after you strap your kayak on your back and hike a mile down into the canyon. This 7-mile stretch offers paddlers a beautiful wilderness experience with a couple of class 3sh rapids and a handful of class 2. An abundance of birds of prey, otters, bighorn sheep, bears, and lots more await the most adventurous kayakers. For those who are new to kayaking in New Mexico or who need a preview of this section, New Mexico River Adventures offers a full-day Middle Taos Box inflatable kayaking trip led by expert guides.
2. The Wild and Scenic Rio Chama

The Rio Chama is a hidden gem among southwest multi-day river trips. A beautiful canyon on the edge of the Colorado Plateau with amazing camps and perfect kayaking rapids. Bring your inflatable kayak along and chill out or take on a new sport, whitewater kayaking. New Mexico River Adventures offers a 3-day Rio Chama whitewater rafting trip with the option to kayak included. It’s the perfect progression for those who want to learn how to kayak. Graduate on days 2 and 3 of the trip with some class 3 rapids and let your mind be blown!
3. The Orilla Verde

This nice half-day stretch of the Rio Grande traverses the latter part of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. This 6-mile section has an average gradient of 12 feet per mile, which means that there is no stress! Sit back and watch the canyon walls envelop you as you kick back and float downstream. Just a couple of ripples to enjoy with the gold of sunshine. The Orilla Verde trip always seems to fill the cup!
4. The Racecourse

Ah Yes, the most exciting section of the river for anyone to jump in an inflatable kayak and get after it! Please remember to be with someone experienced or a guide. When the water levels on the Rio Grande drop below 600 cfs or so, this section becomes a super exciting and fun challenge for the more adventurous river runners. Choose an inflatable kayak, but pay attention, there is some paddlin’ to do!
5. Santa Cruz Lake
To round out the list of kayaking near Albuquerque, we’ve included an absolutely, gorgeous lake in the foothills of the Truchas Mountains. Fed by the small, idyllic Santa Cruz Creek, this lake is the perfect spot to learn to kayak. During the heat of the summer, the water is warm and it truly is a great spot to introduce first-timers and kids to the wonders of whitewater kayaking and the amazing places it can take you. The Wonders!!
Thanks For Paddling By!
Thanks for reading along and taking an interest in New Mexico kayaking! Whether you are brand new to the sport or looking to explore new water for kayaking near Albuquerque, we’re here to help you have a great time. If you are looking to advance your kayaking skills, please check out our various swiftwater rescue and kayaking instructional clinics. We’re looking forward to seeing you on the river!
Kayaking near Albuquerque, New Mexico…Yes! Just because you didn’t see kayakers on your favorite episode of Breaking Bad doesn’t mean that there aren’t incredible river kayaking opportunities in the Land of Enchantment. The only twist is that you must drive a bit north of ABQ to get the Goods! The section of the Rio Grande […]
Ever wonder what the greatest job on earth is? Yep, you guessed it, River Guiding! Whether you become a career river guide, traveling all over the world and chasing the greatest whitewater on the planet, or a college student looking for a rewarding summertime job, a raft guide job can provide you with a lifetime passion and a new sense of understanding and appreciation for rivers and the wilderness. It all starts with finding the right Guide School that works for you. You should consider the experience of your instructors, the length of the course as well as the company that is sponsoring the course as most times you will end up working for that company after your course is complete.
At New Mexico River Adventures, we pride ourselves on providing the best Guide School and instruction in the Southwest. Our instructors are extremely experienced on rivers throughout the East and West Coasts, and worldwide. We are pleased to hear again and again from our Guides that have moved on to experience other rivers in other places that the training they received at NMRA was second to none and prepared them to be the best in any place else they have rafted.
It is imperative that you start with strong core skills and don’t pick up any bad habits along the way. It is also important that you get a broad understanding of river safety principles and a swift water rescue certification to build upon as your career as a river guide develops. These and more can be obtained at New Mexico River Adventures Annual Guide School.
About Our Guide School

Our Guide School is primarily designed for individuals 18 years old and above that are seeking employment with NMRA for the season. We offer extremely competitive wages and a place to stay for those that are not from New Mexico. Northern New Mexico and the Rio Grande and Rio Chama is extremely beautiful with a rich culture that will capture your heart. And, unlike our neighbors to the north, a fraction of the number of people to share the wild rivers with.
We offer 2 Guide Schools which are both 9 days long. The first begins April 25th and the second begins May 17th. Unlike most of the Guide Schools offered throughout the country, ours is FREE to qualified applicants. If you’re interested in a life-changing experience and a financially rewarding summer, look no further and APPLY HERE! You can always call our friendly staff for more information as well or contact us online.
Have questions? Reach out!
New Mexico River Adventures Team
info@newmexicoriveradventures.com
Ever wonder what the greatest job on earth is? Yep, you guessed it, River Guiding! Whether you become a career river guide, traveling all over the world and chasing the greatest whitewater on the planet, or a college student looking for a rewarding summertime job, a raft guide job can provide you with a lifetime […]
Planning an outdoor bachelor party in New Mexico? A bachelor party is an important bonding experience among friends. A great time to get together and relive great times together from the past and create memories to last a lifetime.
What people don’t always realize is that a bachelor party is not meant to be a one night or even a one-day experience. It should last at least a weekend and involve a variety of great activities that the entire group will enjoy and talk about for many, many years to come.
With New Mexico’s unique landscape, remote destinations, and cultural and culinary resources, there are few places better suited to send the bachelor off in style. Look no further than Northern New Mexico for the ultimate bachelor party getaway!
Here are the 5 best outdoor bachelor party ideas in New Mexico!
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A New Mexico Brewery Tasting
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Wine Tasting & Hot Springs In New Mexico
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Ski Trips In New Mexico
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Hiking New Mexico
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Multi-Day Rafting On The Rio Chama
1. A New Mexico Brewery Tasting

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry! Between Albuquerque and Taos lies a treasure trove of some of the best breweries in the country. Don’t forget a designated driver when you tour some of these amazing breweries which are all located at 5000 and 8000 feet depending on the town you are visiting. We suggest a stop at La Cumbre or Bosque Brewing Co in Albuquerque, Second Street brew or Santa Fe Brewing Co in Santa Fe, and Taos Mesa Brewery in Taos. Looking for something a little more all-inclusive? Check out our annual Rivers and Brews or Beers and Cheers trips. These beer trips offer a three-day adventure on the Rio Chama paired with some of our favorite beers!
2. Wine Tasting & Hot Springs In New Mexico
Not only for Bachelorettes! Hot Springs and Wine Tasting? A great combo for everyone. After a morning of adrenaline on the Rio Grande Racecourse or a thrilling full day in the Taos Box, enjoy a myriad of wonderful wine tasting experiences right here in the Embudo Valley. Try Vivac, La Chiripada, and Black Mesa Wineries for starters. Afterward, settle into a plush vintage trailer, historic hotel room or luxurious suite at the world-renowned Ojo Caliente Mineral Hot Springs Resort, and enjoy an evening natural hot-spring soaking. There’s no better way to relax with good friends!
3. Ski Trips In New Mexico
Skiing! It’s the perfect outdoor bachelor party in New Mexico! Did you know that New Mexico is home to at least 8 amazing ski areas? Try planning a wintertime gathering at the world-famous Taos Ski Valley. Boasting over 3200 vertical feet spread throughout 1300 acres. Taos has consistently been voted one of the country’s great ski areas, come see for yourself.
4.Hiking New Mexico

Celebrate elevation! How about a few days of backpacking in the pristine Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. This is the southernmost reaches of the Rocky Mountains and claims the highest point in NM which is Wheeler Peak standing at 13,159’ in elevation.
5.Multi-Day Rafting On The Rio Chama
Raft the Rio Chama! This is the gem of Northern NM river running. A perfect, 3-day journey through a gorgeous wilderness canyon. While Rio Chama whitewater rafting, you’ll spend 2 nights under the stars and telling tales as your Guides take care of everything for you from cooking delicious meals to making sure you have all of the proper equipment. This is the perfect way to send your friend off into the next chapter of life! You’re only a few clicks away from the perfect bachelor weekend. Book online now!
Still looking for the perfect bachelor weekend? How about a full-day whitewater rafting trip? The Rio Grande Gorge is our most popular full-day trip and has lots of swimming opportunities! Also, check out our other adventures to find the perfect activity for you and your crew.
Planning an outdoor bachelor party in New Mexico? A bachelor party is an important bonding experience among friends. A great time to get together and relive great times together from the past and create memories to last a lifetime. What people don’t always realize is that a bachelor party is not meant to be a […]



















