Rio Grande Gorge Full Day

US
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (194 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    World Class Guides
  • inclusion
    Lunch
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    Signature, Hot Chicken Fajita Lunch
  • inclusion
    All rafting Equipment
  • inclusion
    Full Service Headquarters
  • inclusion
    Safe, Secure Parking,

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities

What to expect

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Rio Grande Gorge

Starting Out We start at our headquarters where you’ll meet your guides for the day who will outfit you with all the gear necessary for the day on the river. At the headquarters, you will find safe secure parking, clean restrooms, changing rooms, shaded picnic tables on our patio rooms, and any last minute items you might have forgotten including sunscreen, water shoes, hats and much more. This is the perfect place to start your adventure.  Craft choices are dependent on water levels. The large majority of our guests like to participate and paddle along with the guide in the back of the boat giving paddling commands, however, you may also choose to sit back and let the guide do the work on an oar boat.  And for the adrenaline junkies, ask about an inflatable kayak at no extra charge. Floating the Rio Grande Gorge After the short drive to the starting point in our vans, your river trip begins with a placid morning float through one of the most scenic parts of the canyon with great opportunities to see a variety of wildlife including mule deer, river otter, beaver and many different birds of prey. This section also affords us time to practice paddling techniques, swimming and simply enjoying the Rio Grande. Somewhere in this stretch, we’ll stop on the side of the river for a nice lunch put together by your guides. After lunch, we run the Class III rapids of the “Racecourse.” The Lower Gorge of the Rio Grande is a broad canyon with lush riparian habitat along the banks of the Rio. As we enter the “Racecourse” section the geology radically changes as we pass onto the Rio Grande fault line, one of the largest intercontinental fault lines in North America. But let’s not forget the whitewater! The Racecourse is 6 miles of action-packed class 2-3 rapids. Perfect for everyone from beginners to intermediate/experts. There is something for everyone to enjoy on this section. With rapids like the Maze, Albert’s Falls, The Narrows, and The Thunderdome make sure you are braced in and ready to get wet! Listen to your guides as they negotiate these rapids and don’t forget to ask them to surf when the water levels are lower. Guides for the Rio Grande Gorge Full Day Our guides are the best in the business, focusing on safety and guest service as a top priority. All are extremely knowledgeable about the area’s geology, ecology and history and just love being on the river. Our Guides have experience on rivers all over the country and across the globe, I know you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.   They will certainly help to make your day on the river the best possible. Full Day Rio Grande rafting trips available EVERY DAY starting in March through September. Our minimum age at most water levels is 5, however, at the higher flows, that minimum age rises to 13. Book online or call us anytime, 1-800-983-7756, to reserve your space.

Duration 360 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by New Mexico River Adventures

What our experts say

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    Bring sunscreen; it can be sunny!
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    Enjoy lunch by the riverside with views.
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    Stop by the Taos Pueblo nearby post-trip.
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    Consider a sunset visit to the gorge.
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    Pack a lightweight jacket for cool waters.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The Rio Grande Gorge Full Day tour offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Lower Gorge of the Rio Grande. This tour is perfect for families, first-time rafters, and groups looking to immerse themselves in nature and experience the thrill of whitewater rafting. Starting with a peaceful float through the Orilla Verde section of the river, participants will be captivated by the lush riparian habitat and breathtaking scenery. After a riverside lunch, the excitement ramps up as the tour enters the thrilling Racecourse, featuring exhilarating whitewater rapids.

What to expect?

Joining the Rio Grande Gorge Full Day tour guarantees an action-packed day filled with both serene moments and adrenaline-pumping thrills. Participants can anticipate a leisurely morning on the river, soaking in the magnificent views and honing their paddling skills in preparation for the exciting whitewater adventure that awaits in the afternoon. This tour promises an immersive experience, allowing guests to connect with nature, enjoy delicious meals, and create lasting memories with their loved ones.

Who is this for?

This tour caters to a wide range of individuals who seek both relaxation and excitement in a single day. Families can embark on this adventure with children as young as five, making it an ideal choice for creating unforgettable family memories. First-time rafters will find this tour perfect for their initiation into the world of whitewater rafting, as experienced guides will ensure their safety and provide expert instruction. Groups of friends or colleagues looking for a thrilling bonding experience will also find this tour to be an excellent choice.

Why book this?

The Rio Grande Gorge Full Day tour offers a unique and exhilarating experience that combines the tranquility of a scenic float with the excitement of navigating thrilling rapids. With world-class guides leading the way, participants can feel confident in their safety and enjoy the adventure to the fullest. The tour's picturesque lunch stops along the riverside provide an opportunity to savor a signature hot chicken fajita lunch while taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. This tour is an ideal blend of relaxation, excitement, and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable day on the Rio Grande.

Good to know

Participants should arrive at the tour headquarters by 8:30 a.m. to kick off the day's adventure. The minimum age requirement for most of the year is five years old, making it a family-friendly experience. The tour includes all necessary rafting equipment and offers safe and secure parking facilities. It's important to note that gratuities are not included, so guests may consider bringing some extra cash to show appreciation for their guides' exceptional service. This tour is a fantastic opportunity to explore the Rio Grande Gorge, immerse oneself in nature, and create lifelong memories.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the Rio Grande Gorge Full Day tour have consistently praised the experience for its perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. They rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guides who ensure a safe and enjoyable journey down the river. The stunning scenery and immersive nature of the tour have left guests in awe, with many describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Families appreciate the inclusivity of the tour, with children as young as five being able to partake in the excitement. Overall, participants express high levels of satisfaction and recommend the tour to anyone seeking a memorable and thrilling day on the Rio Grande.

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