Whether you have experienced day river trips or are a total first-timer, the perfect overnight rafting trips await you in New Mexico. Overnight rafting trips are a great way to take it up a level and find time in the wilderness with family and friends, new and old. Northern New Mexico is known for its scenic beauty. Our river canyons are complemented by scenic vistas, colorful canyon walls, various wildlife, and cultural treasures. Are you new to whitewater rafting or aren’t sure which trip is right for you? Don’t worry, there is an overnight trip for any level of adventurer. NMRA makes this experience a breeze as we provide all your boating and camp equipment.

Here are the top 3 overnight rafting trips available to you in New Mexico!

1. Rio Chama – 3 Day Rafting Trip

2. Taos Box Overnight Whitewater Rafting Trip

3. 24 Hours On The Rio Grande

1)     Rio Chama – 3 Day Rafting Trip

Welcome to the Rio Chama, a Wild and Scenic River. The Rio Chama is a major tributary of the Rio Grande. Flowing through the Chama River Wilderness you are treated to a scenic wilderness adventure. The Rio Chama River Valley is credited to be a source of inspiration for Georgia O’Keeffe and her New Mexico Landscape paintings.

NMRA offers a variety of trips along the Rio Chama. We first think of family-friendly float adventures, where kayaks and SUPs are an added level of fun. For those looking for elevated dining, while relaxing riverside we offer food-focused trips, such as our Gourmet Series. All meals are provided starting with lunch on day one and ending with lunch on day three.

If you want to experience the wild scenic beauty of the Rio Chama, but can’t commit to the full 3-Day Itinerary, we offer a Rio Chama 2-Day trip. Longer River miles each day, but with all the beauty. Check out our YouTube video.

2)    Taos Box Overnight Whitewater Rafting Trip

This is NMRA’s premier overnight rafting trip in the Rio Grande Gorge. The Rio Grande rises high in the mountains. This trip features high rising canyon walls, that provide a glimpse into pristine wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes out for Big Horn Sheep, and otter.

Flowing through the Lower Taos Box and Lower Gorge you are in for 30 miles of action over two days. Please reference age restrictions if considering this adventure. This trip will take you from calm scenic waters to heart-pumping rapids! There is nothing better than sitting back after an adrenaline-filled day, and taking in the New Mexico stars as our guides prepare dinner and dessert.

3)    24 Hours on The Rio Grande

Time crunch? We get it! This is a custom trip designed for someone looking to get maximum exposure to the beautiful Rio Grande Gorge, with a timeline in mind. We meet at our HQ at 2 pm on Day One and will have you back by 2 pm on Day Two.

This trip starts along our Orilla Verde section. In the heart of the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument. The Orilla Verde draws many species of animals and diverse plant life. There is lots of scenic beauty to take in as you head to camp in time for a classic New Mexico sunset and a star-filled sky. Day two brings all the action as you set-out on the Racecourse. A classic whitewater experience. There is a lunch stop as you wind through rapids suited for first-timers and experienced rafters alike. Please check Inflatable Kayak availability and minimum age levels on this trip, as it can fluctuate with water levels.

For all your wet and wild adventures in New Mexico, please consider joining New Mexico River Adventures. Our family-owned and operated business places a strong emphasis on customer safety and satisfaction.  The river is our playground and every day is a new adventure. Won’t you join us? Book your New Mexico whitewater rafting trip online today!

Rafting with kids provides a family experience that you cannot find any other way. Immersing yourself amongst canyons and wilderness that allows screen-free time and family bonding helps families grow closer together. NMRA is a family-owned company, and we’ve created a few experiences with the family dynamic in mind. We want the entire family to have a great time and return for many river trips in the future. Our guides are aware of this, so come prepared with a few jokes and get ready to have some fun!

Here are 5 things to consider when rafting with kids in New Mexico.

1. What to wear?

2. Snacks

3. Water (To Drink!)

4. Choosing the right trip

5. Time spent together as a family

1)    What you should wear?

When rafting with kids, it’s best to bring synthetic materials, and layers. On our day trips, you should focus on layers and look ahead to the local weather forecast. Sun protective clothing, rain jacket, and a winter hat will have you covered for most weather conditions on overnight trips, our high alpine desert environment can be cold at night, even during peak summer. Read more using NMRA’s suggested packing lists. They are linked above.

2)    Snacks

We all love snacks! Each guide will have a day drybag to keep any essentials on hand for you. If you have dietary restrictions, let us know ahead of time. All-day trips include a snack stop- featuring some type of fruit and usually cookies. Our multi-day rafting trips in New Mexico include a river-side lunch. We want smiles and happy tummies for our young friends- so if your child has a specific favorite, please bring it along.

3)  Water (To Drink!)

Have you heard the joke about dehydration? No? That’s right. There’s nothing funny about dehydration. Even during overcast trips, hydration is important. Bring a water bottle along and try to fill it up a few times throughout the day. With hydration comes bathroom breaks. On overnight trips, we use a special piece of river equipment called a Groover. Yellow can flow downstream, but for other bathroom needs the groover is set-up at camp. Your guide will give detailed instructions on how to use it, don’t be afraid to ask questions. NMRA HQ is complete with changing rooms and bathroom facilities.

4)    Choosing the right trip

Choosing the right trip is the first step in building a great family experience. Have a family talk. Most impressions come from the movies, and that can often feature the extreme element of the sport. NMRA offers a variety of New Mexico family rafting trips that fit into your schedule and family expectations. Northern New Mexico is known for its scenery, the Rio Chama is a great relaxed environment for ample family bonding. The Taos Box overnight is great for the adventurous teenagers in your life, looking for an exciting New Mexico whitewater rafting trip. And the Rio Grande Gorge is a great whitewater trip for all ages! When scheduling it is important to reference minimum trip age, as it can fluctuate with water levels.

5)  Time spent together as a family

It’s important to prioritize alone time spent together as a family. Rafting with kids is the perfect activity to engage your family in an outdoor activity. The more kids, the better. Check with our office staff to receive recommendations for New Mexico family rafting. There is a great opportunity for your family to connect with others looking for the same experience. Or, plan with your friends. Some guides have water cannons or bring one along. Hot summer days, nothing is better than a friendly squirt battle! Overnight rafting trips in New Mexico give lots of time for camp games and campfire storytelling.

It’s never too early to book your family rafting adventure in New Mexico. At NMRA we specialize in creating family experiences that provide memories to last a lifetime. For more information on family rafting trips in New Mexico, please explore our website or give us a call at 800-983-7756 to book your trip today. We can’t wait to see you on the river!

Multi-day rafting in New Mexico is a bucket list experience!  Whether you’ve experienced day river trips or are a total first-timer, New Mexico’s diverse river canyons are sure to have the perfect adventure for you. Overnight trips are a great way to take it up a level and find time in the wilderness with family and friends, new and old.

Northern New Mexico is known for its scenic beauty, but with whitewater, there is an overnight trip for any level of adventurer. NMRA makes this experience a breeze as we provide all your boating and camping equipment.

Here are NMRA’s best multi-day rafting trips in New Mexico!

1. Rio Chama Rafting 3 Day Trip

2. Taos Box Rafting Overnight Trip

3. Rio Grande Rafting Overnight Trip

1.  Rio Chama Whitewater Rafting

The Rio Chama is a Wild and Scenic River! The Rio Chama is a major tributary of the Rio Grande. Flowing through the Chama River Wilderness you are treated to a scenic wilderness adventure. The Rio Chama River Valley is credited to be a source of inspiration for Georgia O’Keeffe and her New Mexico Landscape paintings.

NMRA offers a variety of trips along the Rio Chama. We first think of family-friendly float adventures, where kayaks and SUPs are an added level of fun. For those looking for elevated dining, while relaxing riverside we offer food-focused trips, such as our Gourmet Series. All meals are provided starting with lunch on day one and ending with lunch on day three.

If you want to experience the wild scenic beauty of the Rio Chama, but can’t commit to the full 3-day whitewater rafting itinerary, we offer a Rio Chama 2-Day rafting trip. Longer River miles each day, but with all the beauty.

2.  Taos Box Overnight

This is NMRA’s premier overnight rafting trip in the Rio Grande Gorge. The Rio Grande rises high in the mountains. This trip features high rising canyon walls, that provide a glimpse into pristine wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes out for Big Horn Sheep, and otter.

Flowing through the Lower Taos Box and Lower Gorge you are in for 30 miles of action over two days. Taos box whitewater rafting is exciting and scenic. Please reference age restrictions if considering this adventure. This trip will take you from calm scenic waters to heart-pumping rapids! There is nothing better than sitting back after an adrenaline-filled day, and taking in the New Mexico Stars as our guides prepare dinner and dessert.

3.  24 Hours on The Rio Grande

Time crunch? We get it! This is a custom trip designed for someone looking to get maximum exposure to the beautiful Rio Grande Gorge, with a timeline in mind. We meet at our HQ at 2 pm on Day One and will have you back by 2 pm on Day Two.

This trip starts along our Orilla Verde section. In the heart of the Rio Grande Del Norte National Monument. The Orilla Verde draws many species of animals and diverse plant life. Lots of scenic beauty to take in as you head to camp in time for a classic New Mexico sunset and a star-filled sky.

Day two brings all the action as you set-out on the Racecourse river rafting section. A classic whitewater experience. There is a lunch stop as you wind through rapids suited for first-timers and experienced rafters alike. Please check Inflatable Kayak availability and minimum age levels on this trip, as it can fluctuate with water levels.

For the best in Santa Fe & Taos whitewater rafting, book your trip with New Mexico River Adventures! Let us handle every detail as you embark on an epic multi-day rafting trip in New Mexico’s river canyons. Trips departing daily, contact us for additional information.

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