The average Rio Grande whitewater rafting season in New Mexico begins in mid-March and goes through October. However, times differ from year to year depending on the weather patterns that year. The rapids are prime during the months of April and May, but the air and water temperatures are cooler than they would be if you went on a rafting adventure in June. If you plan your whitewater rafting trip during the earlier months, it is recommended to wear a synthetic base layer even if the company provides wetsuits.
If you’re looking for some of the best whitewater rafting in the West, then Taos County is where you need to look. Here are a handful of places we recommend when booking your whitewater rafting experience.
- Far Flung Adventures offers half-day and multi-day adventures in Northern New Mexico. Gear up and get ready for Class 3 rafting along the Rio Grande River!
- Los Rios River Runners in Taos is the oldest, largest, and most experienced rafting company in New Mexico. They have been rafting the river canyons throughout Northern New Mexico since 1975. They offer half-day and 3 day excursions.
- Red River Offroad offers both challenging and mild whitewater trips down the Rio Grande. Half-day tours are available for both trips and are offered to depart in the mornings and right after lunch. Red River Offroad supplies the rafting equipment, life jackets, wetsuits, dry bags, and an experienced rafting guide. You must bring any extra items you may need, such as sunscreen, a hat, quick-dry clothes or a bathing suit, as well as tennis shoes.
- New Mexico River Adventures offers one of the best-guided whitewater rafting experiences in the West. Guided kayaking is another fun activity you can enjoy with your friends and family while exploring the mountainous area. Whether you are looking to river raft, kayak, or canoe, New Mexico River Adventures has you covered. You can choose a short single-day experience, multi-day excursions, or customize your own trip! Their signature full-day Rio Grande Gorge trip is perfect for the whole family. This trip travels 12-16 miles with numerous class 2 and 3 rapids. A hot chicken fajita lunch is served riverside halfway through the trip.
- New Mexico Adventure Company is located in Red River. Rafting is offered every day of the week, with weekend prices just a little bit higher than during the week. You will see beautiful views of the Sangre De Cristo mountains as you raft down the Rio Grande.
Red River Day Trip – Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting is a suggested activity for mountain thrill seekers who stay in Red River during the spring and summer months. Keep in mind that the Taos Box (a section of the Rio Grande that is not usually recommended for beginners) is not runnable below certain levels, and that changes every year. Don’t forget to ask about inflatable kayaks during the months with lower water levels. Make your reservations before you arrive in Red River to ensure you have a date and time booked for your rafting experience. Be sure to share your pictures with us so we can live vicariously through your rafting trip!