Where to Go White Water Rafting in New Mexico
New Mexico might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of world-class rapids, but the Land of Enchantment might surprise you when it comes to great white water rafting opportunities. You can go white water rafting at several spots along the Rio Grande as well as on the Rio Chama. There are plenty of raft guide companies to choose from and trips for all skill-levels, whether you’re looking for fast and furious rapids or smooth, family-friendly rafting.
The Best White Water Rafting Spots in New Mexico
Best spots: Taos Box, La Junta, Rio Chama
Best rafting companies: New Mexico River Adventures, Los Rios River Runners, Kokopelli Raft, New Wave Rafting Co.
New Mexico’s Best Rivers for White Water Rafting
The Santa Fe area features two main rivers that are ideal for white water rafting: the Rio Grande and the Rio Chama. Each of these rivers features different types of rapids and scenery, and many rafting companies offer day trips and multi-day trips to explore them.
The Rio Grande
The Rio Grande is one of New Mexico’s major rivers. It begins in Southern Colorado and flows through New Mexico before reaching the Gulf of Mexico. It also forms a portion of the U.S-Mexico border. This river has plenty of spots for white water rafting and other water activities near Santa Fe, Taos, and Albuquerque. There are plenty of racing rapids for more adventurous rafters, as well as calmer stretches perfect for beginners and families.
The Rio Chama
The Rio Chama is a tributary of the Rio Grande that runs through southern Colorado and northern New Mexico before joining the larger river. The river features stretches of challenging rapids that should only be used by experts as well as Class I-III rapids suitable for new and intermediate rafters.
The Best Places to Go White Water Rafting in New Mexico
These places are all great spots to hit the water, with both expert and beginner-friendly rapids available.
1. The Taos Box
The Taos Box is located on the Rio Grande near Taos, New Mexico. It features Class IV rapids and is a great choice for experienced rafters who have been white water rafting before. The beginning of the course is relatively calm before moving on to more intense rapids in the final five miles.
2. Orilla Verde
Orilla Verde is also located on the Rio Grande. It features a calm stretch of river perfect for those looking for a casual float. Near the end of the course are some moderate Class II rapids. It’s a great choice for families or those looking for a lower-key trip without too many challenging rapids.
3. Rio Chama
While not as well known as the Rio Grande, the Rio Chama is a lovely place to go white water rafting and features beautiful scenery and fun rapids. Many rafting companies offer day trips to the Rio Chama, as well as overnight trips that let you explore even more of the area.
The Best White Water Rafting Companies
There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to booking a white water rafting adventure. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a beginner, these companies offer a good mix of approachable beginner and intermediate courses along with challenging rapids and multi-day trips.
1. New Mexico River Adventures
New Mexico River Adventures offers one of the most comprehensive selections of rafting trips in the area. Rafters can choose from a variety of trips on both the Rio Chama and the Rio Grande, with both day trips and multi-day trips on offer. They also partner with local breweries and wineries to pair food and drink with white water rafting. Check out their Racecourse Halfday Trip and their Sunset Gourmet Float.
2. Los Rios River Runners
Los Rios River Runners is another great option that offers white water rafting trips on the Rio Grande and the Rio Chama. They offer half-day trips, full-day trips, and overnight trips for rafters of all experience levels. Check out their Native Cultures and Feast Float for a delicious and educational float where you’ll cruise down the Rio Grande, learn more about Pueblo culture and history, and enjoy a traditional feast featuring red chile stew, blue corn posole, calabacitas, oven bread or fry bread, Indian pie, and Indian tea.
3. Kokopelli Rafting Adventures
Kokopelli Rafting Adventures is a white water rafting company based in Santa Fe. They offer white water rafting trips on both the Rio Grande and the Rio Chama. They also offer group tours for team building, youth groups, family reunions, and more. Check out their Rio Grande Float half-day trip that’s suitable for beginners, or their half-day Racecourse trip for intermediate rafters.
4. New Wave Rafting Co.
In business since 1980, New Wave Rafting Co. is another great option if you’re looking to go on a white water rafting adventure in the Land of Enchantment. They offer guided rafting trips on both major rivers, and feature family-friendly and experienced options. Check out the Monument Scenic Float for a peaceful 7-mile trip through Orilla Verde, and the Chama 3-Day Trip for adventurous rafters looking to immerse themselves in the beautiful northern New Mexico scenery.
What to Bring on a White Water Rafting Trip
In order to make the most of your rafting trip, you should be sure to come prepared with appropriate clothing, footwear, and other items. These include
Appropriate footwear - Sport sandals like Tivas or Chacos, water shoes, or sneakers are all good options.
Comfortable clothes - You should wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting wet to your rafting trip.
A change of clothes - It’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes to wear after your trip, since you’ll probably get wet along the way.
Sunscreen - The New Mexico sun can be intense, so you should definitely bring sunscreen and reapply when needed.
Water - It’s also a good idea to bring bottled water to quench your thirst during the trip.
Waterproof camera - A waterproof camera isn’t necessary for your trip, but it’s a great option if you’re looking to photograph the scenic vistas you encounter along the way.
At Wander New Mexico, we have a passion for telling stories and creating unique gastronomic experiences that allow people to connect through food.
Join us for authentic, immersive food & history tours that allow our guests to experience New Mexico’s unique food culture, rich flavors, and intriguing history!