New Mexico is known as the “Land of Enchantment” and with good reason! No matter the kind of adventure you are looking for, there is sure to be somewhere in this beautiful state that will provide the unforgettable experience you’re looking for. From the adrenaline-packed white water rapids, to the breathtaking and peaceful desert sunsets, there is very little that New Mexico doesn’t offer!

To help you narrow down the overwhelming amount of experiences available, we have created a list of the top five New Mexico adventures!

1. White Water Rafting The Rio Grande
2. Chaco Culture National Historic Park
3. White Sands National Park
4. Wheeler Peak
5. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

1. White Water Rafting The Rio Grande

Starting from the San Juan mountain range in Colorado, and journeying 1,900 miles to the Gulf of Mexico, we are lucky enough to have a piece of the Rio Grande in our backyard! Some of the best rafting experiences on the Rio Grande are located in the northeastern part of the state near Taos. The Rio Grande offers many adventures that everyone could enjoy!

You can take a full-day trip down the adrenaline pumping 17-mile section of the Rio known as the Taos Box, offering a plethora of class 3 and 4 rapids.  The beautiful 6-mile Racecourse section of the Rio Grande offers exciting rapids up to class 3, and is a half-day trip making it an easy addition to a day with other New Mexico adventures planned! The Rio also offers a relaxing day floating down the class 2 Orillia Verde, a 6-mile section filled with wildlife and beautiful views. If it’s too hard to pick one section, consider an overnight trip! The overnight trip includes all three sections mentioned above, as well as a chance to camp out under the beautiful New Mexico sky. The Rio truly is one of the best New Mexico adventures a person could experience!

2. Chaco Culture National Historic Park

If taking a step back into an ancient world surrounded by beautiful views and breathtaking sunsets sounds good to you, a trip to Chaco canyon may be the adventure you’re looking for! Located in the northwestern part of New Mexico, the park is filled with the largest amount of ancient ruins in the United States. Walk among the rubble of the ancient great houses, enjoy learning about the deep and beautiful culture of the ancient Chacoan people.

There are beautiful campsites within the park surrounded by petroglyphs and ancient rubble that can be seen sitting in a chair at your own campsite! Chaco canyon is also a dark sky park, offering some of the clearest views of the night sky unpolluted by artificial lights.  Chaco culture national historic park is truly a must for anyone looking to experience the beauty and deep history this state has to offer.

3. White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park offers views unlike almost anywhere on earth. Go visit the world’s largest gypsum dune field, located in the southern portion of the state, and experience the otherworldly scenery. Hike through the dune field to find astonishing views of the magnificent park.

White Sands offers not only gorgeous views, but also incredibly fascinating geological information, truly making it a unique and mind-blowing experience. Getting the opportunity to explore White Sands National Park is absolutely something you will remember for years to come.

4. Wheeler peak

If you are looking for one of the best hikes New Mexico has to offer, then look no further than Wheeler Peak. The peak sits at 13,167 feet, making it the tallest point in all of New Mexico. The most popular hike to the peak is accessible through the stunning Taos Ski Valley. This hike will take you near the beautiful William’s Lake, before turning upward to bring you to the summit.

The summit provides a breath taking view of the surrounding land, as well as a rewarding sense of accomplishment after the challenging but extremely rewarding hike. We would encourage anyone looking for a beautiful hike in New Mexico to consider this absolute gem of a trail.

5. Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area (or just called the “Bisti Badlands”) will make you wonder if you’ve been transported to another planet. The 45,000-acre wilderness area, located in western New Mexico, provides abundant opportunities for exploration. The area was once an ancient sea but is now a desert wasteland filled with alien-looking rocks and canyons.

The allure of the land lies in its strange and absolutely mystifying beauty; around every turn is something that looks like it could have been the set of a science fiction movie. Bisti being a wilderness area also offers more opportunities for adventure off “the beaten path” than one would find at a national park or monument. Go hike around this alien landscape and see what amazing things you can find, you won’t be disappointed.

We hope this list has made the planning of your New Mexico adventures a little bit easier. This state has a multitude of experiences to offer just as long as you’re willing to go out and find them. It truly lives up to the name “Land of Enchantment”. Happy Adventuring!

Now is the perfect time to begin planning a drivable getaway in New Mexico.

Looking for the best drivable getaways and staycations in New Mexico? With travel plans constantly changing, one thing we can count on is adventures in our own backyard. When you’re ready, the perfect staycation is in reach with a limited commitment on your part.  We hope you’ll consider the following adventures when it’s time to explore New Mexico.

Without further delay, here is our list of the 3 best drivable getaways and staycation destinations in New Mexico:

1. Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument
2. Santa Fe
3. Taos Ski Valley

1. Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument

After spending so much time over the last month or two at your house, treat yourself with some time in the great outdoors.  New Mexico has so many beautiful National Parks and National Monuments to immerse you in nature.  Head up to the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument and spend time in the heart of one of the most amazing Gorges in the West.  As you drive north from Espanola toward Taos, don’t forget to look to your right and take in the views of the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Truchas Mountain Range.  To your left will be the verdant Rio Grande communities of Alcalde and Velarde, famous for the rare and delicious Alcalde variety of green chile and some of the most delicious apples in the Southwest!  Next you will find yourself weaving and winding through the river canyon with a close-up view of every wave and rock in the river.  Passing through the communities of Embudo and Rinconada, don’t forget to check in at New Mexico River Adventures for a rafting or kayaking trip on the Rio Grande before continuing onto your riverside campsite in the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument.  Here you will find a variety of first come, first serve, developed campsites right on the banks of the Rio Grande.  Each campsite has beautiful hiking trailheads right next door as well as miles and miles of riverbank to explore.  Don’t forget to keep a sharp eye out for Ancient Puebloan Petroglyphs which are scattered throughout the entire canyon as well as the large herds of Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep, the guardians of the sheer rock walls above.

2. Santa Fe

Maybe you’re tired of making your bed and cooking another meal?  Consider a drivable getaway to Santa Fe.  With one of the greatest culinary scenes in the country, you will not be disappointed with dinner out in the oldest established capital city in the country.  Try the lamb Barbacoa and one of their incredible and unique Mezcal Cocktails like La Mariposa.  After dinner, stroll back to your room at El Pueblo Bonito Bed and Breakfast and enjoy the quaint and comfortable adobe rooms that Santa Fe is famous for.  In the morning, drive south of town through the Cochiti Pueblo and enter the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument.  Spend the morning hiking the Slot Canyon trail.  This 3-mile loop trail is a classic with views of incredible rock formations and passageways through narrow slot canyons.  Enjoy your picnic lunch at the top of the trail or at the picnic area at the trailhead.  When it’s time to head back to town, stop in at Cochiti Lake for a quick dip.  As you get back to town, get off at the Cerillos Exit and turn right toward the oldest and one of the best local breweries.  Nationally renowned Santa Fe Brewing has a newly renovated taproom with dozens of award-winning brews for you to try.  They have also added a beautiful outdoor space and a food truck to complete your happy hour experience. Of course, we have to mention our favorite activity in the area is white water rafting Santa Fe!   

3. Taos Ski Valley

If it’s starting to get hot where you live, elevate yourself!  Book a room at the new Blake hotel at Taos Ski Valley.  Located right at the base of lift chair #1, the Blake is nestled into the beautiful Southern Sangre De Cristo Mountains.  Start your morning off with a ride up the chairlift to the top of the mountain.  Bring a daypack and plenty of water.  The views of Wheeler Peak, the tallest mountain in New Mexico are second to none.  Enjoy one of the many trails around the top of the mountain or simply find a nice comfortable spot to unwind and breathe in the sweet, Rocky Mountain air.  If you’re a mountain biker, don’t forget your gear!  Taos has a spectacular downhill mountain bike course that is home to new competitions throughout the summer.  If you like adventure, be sure to check out the new Via Ferrata course in 2020.  This narrow pathway made up of cables, ladders and cracks in the rock is a must for any adrenaline junkie.  As well the breathtaking views of the valley below are not to be missed.  Surely it must be time for a happy hour and soak in the Blake’s hot tub which overlooks the Rio Hondo creek.  Don’t forget to make your dinner reservations at the Bavarian, Taos’ well-known German restaurant at the base of Chair #4.  I recommend the Spatzle, a traditional creamy pasta dish paired with one of their delicious Hefeweizen beers on tap!

No matter where you choose to go and what you choose to do, you cannot lose in Northern New Mexico!  Come see for yourself what the perfect mix of culture, extreme sports, nature, and cuisine is all about.  And of course, with far fewer people than you will ever experience in crowded destinations like Colorado.

Contact us to make white water rafting part of your New Mexico driveable getaway and staycation!

Too Small To Fail

Every two weeks, we’re offering a new deal to all of our customers during shelter in place. As a small family-owned business, our Too Small To Fail initiative is all about bringing in the community and offering special promotions for future adventures.

We know it’s difficult to make travel plans right now, so we want to offer our adventures in a more tentative way. Purchasing and booking online is easy, and our friendly office staff is available to help. Here’s to your next adventure!

Receive A Free $40 Photo Package!

When You Purchase A Gift Certificate Of $200 Or More

Some exclusions apply.

Photo packages available for Racecourse, Rio Grande Gorge, Taos Box, the Rio Grande 24 Hour, and Taos Box overnight trips.

We’re all feeling a little anxious about getting out on adventures and moving on. We hope that you’ll help us see this through so that the 2020 rafting season is the best one yet! Things may be on hold for now, but we are still planning to offer exciting river adventures this season.  Follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest news about the 2020 Rio Grande and Rio Chama rafting seasons.

Too Small To Fail

Every two weeks, we’re offering a new deal to all of our customers during shelter in place. As a small family-owned business, our Too Small To Fail initiative is all about bringing in the community and offering special promotions for future adventures.

While your travel plans may have been put on hold by COVID, that doesn’t mean that your adventurous spirit has to. Plan the perfect New Mexico adventure by purchasing a gift certificate valid for any future trip.

SAVE 10% on gift certificates valued at $200 or more until April 22nd!

Some exclusions apply. Not valid for specialty trips.

To all of our valued customers, we truly hope that you and yours are in good health and staying safe during these uncertain times. We feel empowered and dedicated to flatten the curve and protect our staff, family, and community. Things may be on hold for now, but we are still planning to offer exciting river adventures this season.  Follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on the latest news about the 2020 Rio Grande and Rio Chama rafting seasons.

Let us lead your family into adventure and lifetime memories!

New Mexico River Adventures is a family-run business that understands and values how important it is to expose children to new experiences while keeping your most precious cargo safe. The best and most popular time of year for any of these family whitewater rafting trips is during the summer break from school when the weather in the high desert is right around perfect every single day! Our impeccable safety record and highly trained guides speak for themselves, but let us fill you in on a few of the family-friendly trips we offer. We believe these are the three best family whitewater rafting trips in New Mexico!

1. Half-Day Orilla Verde

The perfect family whitewater rafting trip in New Mexico that suits most ages is the half-day Orilla Verde, with the minimum age being 3. The launch point is in the lower section of the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument which offers gorgeous scenery and ample wildlife sightings. The calm stretch of river is punctuated with few very mild rapids to give the kiddos something to get excited for. As with all of our trips, we will stop midway down to have a snack and give your family a chance to stretch your legs and go for a dip in the river.

2. Half-Day Racecourse

If your children are a bit older and looking for more adventure, then our class 3 half-day Racecourse rafting trip will be perfect for your family. Our most popular trip on the Rio Grande dishes out super fun rapids with great opportunities between to take in the gorgeous canyon and to hop in the river for a swim. The teamwork required to maneuver through the whitewater will find your family feeling accomplished while giving paddle high fives for a job well done. The minimum age for this trip is 5, but can go up in higher water scenarios.

3. Rio Chama 3 – Day

Want even more time on the river together? Then look no further than our 3 Day Rio Chama rafting trip. Nothing will bond you all closer than spending two nights camping under the stars and 3 days soaking in the amazing Rio Chama river canyon. The whitewater on this trip is mild and suitable for kids as young as 5. We often suggest that the older kids in the groups (adults, too!) opt to run the trip in one of our inflatable kayaks as they add more adventure to the experience. There are great options for family hikes to check out the famous dinosaur tracks and side canyons behind each camp for sunset or sunrise hikes, the possibilities are endless!

We hope you’ll join us for these family white water rafting trips near you!

To All Of Our Valued Guests and Adventurers

With the ongoing progression of COVID-19 throughout our state, country and world, as the leading outfitter in New Mexico, New Mexico River Adventures has the responsibility to suspend the operations of our trips for the next three weeks or however long is necessary. We are still accepting reservations for the summer season. We also would like our guests that plan on rafting with us in the future to buy Gift Certificates in the form of dollar amounts or for specific trips. Our Gift Certificates have no expiration.

Our first priority has always been keeping our employees and guests safe and it always will be. We agree with most that the only way to keep our community and country safe is to stay home so that hopefully we can all get back to the many amazing adventures New Mexico has to offer sooner than later.

Please keep in touch with us about the many great trips we have planned for the summer as we are looking forward to another season of great water levels for all of our trips. In the meantime, we will continue to closely monitor and follow all protocols put forth by the CDC, WHO and NM Dep’t of Health.

So please stay home, wash your hands and let’s do everything we can to stop the spread of this virus. Our entire NMRA family will keep heading through these class 5 rapids with swift and powerful paddle strokes, and most importantly, in sync with everyone else in the boat.

Thank you for your continued trust,

Matt, Wendy and Scout

Attention New Mexico Adventurers:

We wanted to reach out to all of our past, present and future guests of New Mexico River Adventures regarding our response to COVID-19.  NMRA is closely monitoring the situation as it evolves and will do everything in our power to keep our guests and employees safe while in our care.

New Mexico River Adventures will continue to run trips with the utmost attention paid to hygiene.  All of our guides, front office staff, photographers and shuttle drivers are vigilant about washing hands, wearing gloves when handling food, cleaning vans out after each trip, disinfecting gear after each use as well as thorough cleanings of our shop every single day.  We are holding a staff meeting which details the increased importance of all of the above practices.

Currently, we are recommending all of our guests adhere to the recommendations put forth by the CDC, WHO, and the New Mexico Department of Health.  We ask that all of our guests who are symptomatic please stay home. Should we encounter a situation on one of our trips that involves a guest starting to show symptoms of COVID-19, we will take immediate action to remove the guest from the river trip in order to avoid any other guest becoming ill. We do believe that we are still able to safely run our trips, but will not hesitate to make changes as this situation progresses. Please feel free to call our office to share any concerns or ask any questions that may arise.

We are looking forward to another great season on the Rio Grande and Rio Chama and we can’t wait to show you why our team is the best out there.

Best,

Matt,  Wendy and the entire NMRA family

If you’re seeking an exciting and adventurous destination, Santa Fe is the perfect place for you. With its abundant sunshine, rich historical heritage, and vibrant Native American culture, this enchanting town offers a wide range of activities to suit every taste. From exploring the oldest government seat, church, and house in the United States to immersing yourself in the traditions of the 23 Native American Tribes, Nations, and Pueblos, Santa Fe has it all. And if you’re craving an adrenaline rush, don’t miss out on the exhilarating experience of Santa Fe rafting. Get ready to dive into the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures that await you in Santa Fe!

1. Jemez Hot Springs 

Between 10,000 waves and Ojo Caliente, the developed hot springs scene around Santa Fe is great.  But if you are looking for something more off the beaten path, then you should head up the mountain to Jemez Hot Springs.  There are a number of different pools to enjoy in the Jemez area, with the most popular being the San Antonio pools. 

2. See A Show At Meow Wolf

At this point, a visit to Meow Wolf is one of the most popular activities in Santa Fe for locals and visitors alike. And for good reason! But what most visitors don’t know is that it is a music venue as well.  You can enter one hour before the show to wander the psychedelic halls and try to work out what happened in the House of Eternal Return all before dancing the night away to your favorite band.

3. Inflatable Kayaking The Rio Chama

The landscape of the Rio Chama is one of the most beautiful areas in all of New Mexico! The banded sandstone cliffs will take your breath away as you navigate your kayak down the river beloved and depicted by the incomparable Georgia O’Keefe. With the meeting location only one hour from downtown Santa Fe, this is a perfect day trip.

4.  Take A Wine Tour

I know what you’re thinking, ‘A wine tour in New Mexico?!?’  Yes, you heard me right! New Mexico is actually one of the oldest regions of winemaking in the country.  Spanish grapes smuggled into the state in the 1600s and planted in the southern region began what has become of rich culture of wine in New Mexico.  If you are looking to add adventure, NM Wine tours and New Mexico River Adventures has teamed up to pick you up at any hotel for a morning of rafting and an afternoon of wine tasting at La Chiripada, Vivac and Black Mesa wineries. 

5.   Eat!

If you like food, Santa Fe will feel like heaven.  With so many dining options, you will be sure to find something that will excite your taste buds.  Some of my recommendations are Clafoutis for morning coffee and perfect pastries, La Choza for the local fare for lunch and dinner at Paloma for delicious cocktails and inventive twists on old favorites!!

Activities in Santa Fe are diverse and plentiful. From enjoying New Mexico’s outdoor recreation and rich cultural history to tasting fine cuisine after a day of adventure, you won’t be disappointed. Don’t forget to add one of New Mexico River Adventures‘ many offerings to your Santa Fe activities list during your visit. We can’t wait to see you on the river!

By: Seth Smith

When you travel somewhere new you are usually rewarded with all kinds of new sensory experiences. You’re seeing new sights, hearing unfamiliar sounds, and my favorite of all, tasting new and delicious foods! Living at home it’s easy to get stuck in the routine of cooking the same few meals month after month, or even week after week. When you are traveling though, it’s all about stepping out of your comfort zone and experiencing something new! Here in New Mexico, we have five unique dishes that are sure to leave your taste buds smiling and wanting more.

Red Chile: A very common chile used on all kinds of New Mexican dishes such as burritos, eggs, and enchiladas. It is simple yet delicious made out of dried red chile pods, water, onion, garlic, and seasonings, giving it a nice earthy flavor profile. This is something you don’t want to miss out on!

Green Chile: This chile is the cousin of the previous red chile that we mentioned. Green chile is made with; you guessed it, green chiles, tomatillos, onions, garlic, water, and spices. Typically jalapenos are one variety of green chiles that go into this chile, making it a little spicier than red chile.

Carne Adovada: This is New Mexico’s take on Adovada. It is pork that is slow cooked in red chile giving it a tremendous amount of flavor. Carne Adovada is typically served with bean, rice, and tortillas.

Posole: Posole is an ingredient and also a stew. The ingredient is corn that is boiled and soaked in limewater, this is a type of posole is also known as hominy. Posole stew is typically a combination of pork, hominy, and either red or green chile. My mouth is watering just thinking about this!

Calabacitas: Calabacitas, which means little squash in Spanish, is a combination of squash, corn, and green chiles. One of the most simple yet absolutely delicious veggie dishes that New Mexico is known for.

All right, if I just read about all these tasty foods I would be wondering, where can I go to try some of this after a day of white water rafting? Well, if you were going to be near Taos, I would recommend checking out Michaels Kitchen Restaurant and Bakery, as well as Orlando’s New Mexican Café. On the other hand, if you were headed back down to Santa Fe I would say to visit, Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen, The Shed or La Choza.   Maybe you are heading back the airport in Albuquerque and need some food before that full day of travel that lies ahead, don’t worry there are plenty of spots down there as well! Make sure you swing by either Mary and Tito’s Café or Frontier Restaurant. Wow, after writing this my stomach is grumbling, time to go get some New Mexican food!

By: Seth Smith

Everyone loves that feeling of a rush you get while running some rapids. The cool water splashing you combined with the breeze moving over the river is the perfect contrast to the heat in the heart of summer. All these elements create an experience that is unparalleled. Staying safe while white water rafting is certainly a way to keep the experience enjoyable. Here are a few safety tips that we would recommend to ensure you have a wonderful experience while out on the river!

1. Wear Your PFD (Personal Flotation Device) AKA Your Life Jacket

This may seem like common sense, and it is! But wearing your PFD is one of the single-handed most important things to remember while out on the river. It must be worn correctly though to be effective! Make sure all the buckles are clipped and that the PFD fits nice and tight so that you can still breathe, but it cannot be pulled over the top of your head. Never, ever, loosen your PFD while out on the water. If you have any questions when fitting your PFD before the trip never hesitate to ask your guide for help.

2. Besides your PFD, wear all other necessary protective gear

Depending on the season the water could be a bit chilly! Wetsuits, proper river shoes, and splash jackets are great ways to ensure that you stay warm while on the river. When you are thinking of layers to wear with this gear, we always recommend synthetic clothing versus cotton. Cotton tends to get wet and stay wet. Synthetic clothing will help wick off the water and keep you dry and warm.   Another very important piece of gear is your helmet! Most companies will require you to wear a helmet whether you like it or not, which you should be grateful for!

3. Hold onto your T-Grip

The T-Grip is the part of your paddle that looks like a T. It’s the handle that you ALWAYS hold onto at the top of the paddle. If for some silly reason you let go of this while going through a rapid the person next to you in the raft may end up with a knocked out tooth or a black eye. Hold on to that T-Grip

4. Choose a licensed professional to go rafting with

When you are going rafting, go out with a licensed professional! When booking your trip don’t be afraid to ask questions on why you should choose them to guide you down the river!

5. Know what to do if you or someone else falls out of the boat

These are all things that your guide should be explaining to you at the beginning of the trip! If you fall out, make sure that you don’t panic, and then find where you are in accordance with the boat. If you are right next to the boat, grab it so that you stay next to it! If you are only a few feet away swim back over to the boat. If you find yourself far away from your boat always look to your guide, they will be able to give you directions on where to swim. There are a few different techniques for swimming when you are in a river. The first position is to lay on your back with your toes and nose up, feet pointing downstream. Your feet will be used to absorb the shock of any obstacles in the river such as rocks or logs. Arms will be out off of your side to help you control yourself. Also, keep that butt up so you don’t hit it on any rocks! The second swimmer’s position is on your stomach swimming like you are Michael Phelps going for the gold medal! Another important thing to remember is to never stand up in the river where there is moving water. You could get your foot trapped and end up doing underwater push-ups on the bottom of the river! Make sure you are all the way to shore before trying to stand up. On the other hand, if someone else falls out of the boat, know the proper technique for pulling them back in. Bend down bracing your knees on the tube of the boat, and grab ahold of their shoulder straps on their PFD. Use your own weight to pull them straight on top of you by falling backward into the boat. This is a big reason to keep the straps on your PFD nice and snug!

6. Listen to your guide

Your guide is guiding you down the river for a reason. If you followed one of our previous tips and found a licensed professional to go with then they will know all the proper safety procedures to ensure you have a great time on the river!

Here at New Mexico River Adventures all of our guides are required to have CPR and First Aid certifications, but many of them step up themselves and also get their Wilderness First Aid, Wilderness First Responder, or EMT certifications.   Before every trip, our guides will give you a detailed safety talk to make sure you understand the protocol for staying safe on the river. We also have wetsuits, splash jackets, PFDs and helmets that you can use free of charge. Our top priority is ensuring that our guests have a safe and enjoyable experience out on the river!