Best Whitewater Rafting In New Mexico
Experience the heart-pounding excitement of whitewater rafting in the Land of Enchantment! New Mexico’s rugged landscapes, pristine rivers, and thrilling rapids make it a paradise for adventure seekers. If you’re eager to paddle through some of the most breathtaking natural wonders while conquering exhilarating rapids, you’ve come to the right place.
New Mexico River Adventures specialize in whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande & Rio Chama. In this blog, we’ve handpicked the top 5 whitewater rafting trips in New Mexico, providing you with a guide to unforgettable adventures in this southwestern gem. Book your New Mexico whitewater rafting trip today!
Here are the top 5 whitewater rafting trips in New Mexico:
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Rio Grande Racecourse
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Taos Box Rafting
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Middle Taos Box Kayaking
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Rio Grande Rafting
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Chama River Rafting
1. Rio Grande Racecourse
Half-Day | Age 5+
As one of the most popular trips in all of New Mexico, the Racecourse offers a wild, yet super fun Class III river adventure for you and your family. While it may be wild, it is surprisingly one of the best trips for first-time rafters. This trip offers excitement for both seasoned rafters and those taking their first plunge into rafting.
- Premier half-day excursion in New Mexico
- Exciting whitewater for all ages
- Great swimming opportunities
2. Taos Box Rafting
Full-Day | Age 13+
The Taos Box is one of the more fast-paced and action-packed river adventures you can find in New Mexico. No doubt about it, you’ll be soaked before this trip is done. While you explore the inner part of the Rio Grande Gorge, you’ll be experiencing amazing Class IV white water rapids like Power Line Falls and the famous mile-long Rio Bravo. If you have a few rafting trips under your belt, this is for you!
- One of the most epic single-day rafting adventures in the US
- Experience epic rapids and wildlife encounters
- Enjoy a delicious hot lunch featuring chicken fajitas
3. Middle Taos Box Kayaking
Full-Day | Age 12+
Experience a rare and serene inflatable kayaking adventure through the lesser-traveled, pristine Middle Taos Box section of the Rio Grande. This hidden gem offers exclusive access to unspoiled nature, with stunning landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere that promises a unique escape in New Mexico.
- Navigate inflatable kayaks through rapids
- Hike into the rarely traveled Middle Taos Box canyon
- Encounter incredible wildlife and petroglyphs
4. Rio Grande Rafting
Full-Day | Age 5+
Now, the Rio Grande Gorge is actually a mix of some of our favorite half-day trips into one. As one of the most beloved river adventure trips in New Mexico, it tackles various class levels ranging from II all the way up to IV. Not only do you get the action-packed adventure of the “Taos Box,” you also get the more first-timer-friendly “Racecourse.” So, it’s perfect for everyone. This trip also includes our signature hot chicken fajita lunch, riverside.
- New Mexico’s favorite full-day adventure
- Exciting whitewater suitable for all age groups
- Great swimming opportunities
5. Rio Chama River Rafting
Multi-Day | Age 6+
Looking for a longer adventure? While not as famous as the Rio Grande, the Chama offers just as much excitement. Being both wild and scenic, the Rio Chama is perfect for a family weekend getaway. Apart from having Class II rapids, this 130-mile river passes through a lot of history, such as the Church of the Desert and even areas with dinosaur dig-sites. No matter your age, this river holds something fun for everyone. Get ready 3-days of unforgettable memories!
- Explore 31 miles of the stunning Rio Chama Wilderness
- Enjoy delicious meals prepared by your guides
- Camp in beautiful forests with towering sandstone walls
Know Before You Go
From the pulse-pounding Rio Grande Racecourse to the breathtaking Taos Box Rafting and Kayaking, and the stunning Rio Grande and Chama River rafting experiences, New Mexico offers a diverse array of options for every level of rafting enthusiast. The state’s wild rivers carve their way through some of the most picturesque landscapes, providing not just heart-pounding excitement, but also a deep connection with nature.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, a chance to bond with friends and family, or simply a serene escape into the beauty of the outdoors, these rafting trips deliver. It’s time to pack your gear, gather your adventurous spirit, and embark on a truly unforgettable journey through the whitewater wonders of New Mexico.
Get ready for a ride you’ll treasure for a lifetime!