Soak up New Mexico’s high desert scenery from the water on a gentle rafting tour down the Rio Grande. Mild class II rapids are suitable for all experience levels, with plenty of calm stretches in between to admire sloping canyon walls, rock cliffs, and the desert ecosystems of the Orilla Verde National Recreation Area. Great for small groups and families with older kids, the outdoor adventure makes an easy day trip from Taos.

• Float and paddle down the Rio Grande on a rafting tour suitable even for beginners
• Glide in between canyon walls and through diverse high desert landscapes
• Cool off on hot days with refreshing swimming stops
• Starting point is located a short drive from Taos

What To Expect

This Rio Grande rafting trip traverses the calm oxbows of the Orilla Verde National Recreation Area. The open canyon allows scenic views of towering basalt cliffs, high desert ecosystems, a lush riverside habitat, Class II rapids, and swimming.

Several Class II rapids occur throughout the outing, in between calm stretches perfect for swimming. We float through the village of Pilar, New Mexico where we will observe a quiet zone to minimize the impact of our passage through this historic, small New Mexico community.