Exploring the captivating Rio Grande in Taos, New Mexico, is an activity that promises to delight adventure-seekers. This half-day float trip offers a chance to take in the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With experienced guides leading the way, visitors can expect an exhilarating yet safe journey through gentle rapids, encountering local wildlife and ancient rock art along the riverbanks. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time rafter, this experience…
Key Points
- A 3-hour scenic float trip through Taos County, New Mexico, featuring gentle Class II rapids and opportunities to engage with wildlife and ancient Indian art.
- Flexible booking options with no upfront payment, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the ability to book now and pay later.
- Experienced river guides lead the float trip, providing narration, ensuring safety and enjoyment, and enhancing the experience with insights into the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
- Mandatory safety orientation, necessary equipment like life vests, and transportation to and from the river are all included in the trip.
- Guests are required to arrive 10 minutes early, sign a waiver of liability, and prepare with appropriate attire, as water time and swimming depend on river conditions.
Activity Overview
The Rio Grande Half-Day Float Trip offers a scenic 3-hour float through the beautiful Taos County of New Mexico.
Gentle Class II rapids provide excitement without extreme adventure, making it an ideal leisurely experience. Priced from $75.21 per person, the trip allows visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery along the river.
The duration is approximately 3 hours, giving guests ample time to engage with the wildlife and ancient Indian art. Experienced river guides ensure safety and enjoyment throughout the journey, providing narration to enhance the overall experience.
Looking for more options in Taos New Mexico? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Booking Information
Visitors can reserve their spot on the Rio Grande Half-Day Float Trip without any upfront payment. The company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To check availability, guests can view the calendar for starting times.
| When | What |
|——|——-|
| Book Now | Pay Later |
| Free Cancellation | Up to 24 Hours in Advance |
| Check Availability | View Calendar for Start Times |
Booking the float trip is flexible and risk-free, allowing visitors to secure their spot with ease.
Guided Experience
An experienced river guide leads the Rio Grande Half-Day Float Trip, providing narration throughout the journey to engage visitors with the wildlife and ancient Indian art along the river.
The guide ensures safety and enjoyment, sharing their expertise to enhance the leisurely experience. Guests can expect to see diverse wildlife and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage as they float down the gentle Class II rapids.
The guided experience offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the Rio Grande while gaining insights from a knowledgeable local.
Safety and Equipment
As part of the Rio Grande Half-Day Float Trip, the tour includes a mandatory safety orientation and provides all necessary equipment for participants.
Guests will receive life vests and other safety gear before embarking on the journey. The experienced river guide ensures the group’s safety and enjoyment throughout the trip.
The experienced river guide ensures the group’s safety and enjoyment throughout the journey, providing necessary safety gear before embarking.
Transportation to and from the river is also included. Gratuities for the guides are suggested at 18-22% of the total cost.
Guests should wear appropriate attire such as water shoes, hiking shoes, and quick-drying athletic clothes. Sandals, flip-flops, and bare feet aren’t allowed on the rafts.
More Great Tours NearbyMeeting Point and Requirements
The meeting point for the Rio Grande Half-Day Float Trip is 2410 NM-68, Dixon, NM 87527.
Participants should arrive 10 minutes early to avoid being left behind – no refunds are given for late arrivals.
Before embarking, guests must sign a waiver of liability and provide emergency contact information.
Water shoes, hiking shoes, and quick-drying athletic clothes are recommended. Sandals, flip-flops, and bare feet aren’t allowed.
The rafts have no storage, so guests should leave large items in their hotel or car.
Swimming and water time depend on river conditions.
Recommended Items
Participants are recommended to wear water shoes, hiking shoes, and quick-drying athletic clothes for the Rio Grande Half-Day Float Trip. These items are essential to ensure comfort and safety during the excursion.
The following items are also recommended:
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Sunscreen to protect against the strong New Mexico sun
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A hat or visor to shield your face and neck
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A lightweight, water-resistant jacket in case of changing weather conditions
Sandals, flip-flops, and bare feet aren’t allowed, as they don’t provide adequate support and protection on the river.
Rafts have limited storage, so participants are advised to leave large items in their hotel or car.
Raft Storage
Rafts have limited storage space, so guests are advised to leave larger items behind in their hotel or vehicle.
The trip focuses on the scenic float along the Rio Grande, so bulky belongings aren’t necessary. Guests can bring a small backpack or dry bag for essentials like a camera, snacks, and a light jacket.
Anything larger, like suitcases or coolers, should be left behind. This ensures a comfortable, unencumbered ride where guests can fully enjoy the natural beauty of the river canyon.
The guides provide all necessary equipment, so packing light is recommended.
Water Conditions
Swimming and water time on the Rio Grande float trip depend entirely on the current river conditions.
While guests can typically enjoy time in the water, this is subject to change based on factors like recent rainfall, snowmelt, and overall water levels.
The guide will ultimately determine the appropriate water activities:
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Increased water flow may restrict swimming opportunities to ensure safety.
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Lower water levels could limit splashing and wading.
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Turbulent conditions may prohibit any in-water exploration.
Guests should be prepared to follow the guide’s instructions regarding water access and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Float Trip Suitable for Young Children?
The float trip may not be suitable for young children. While the rapids are Class II, the trip duration is 3 hours, and the river conditions can be unpredictable, which could make it challenging for young kids to fully enjoy the experience.
Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks for the float trip. However, the rafts have limited storage space, so it’s best to pack light and leave larger items behind.
Do We Need Any Previous Rafting Experience?
No, previous rafting experience is not required. The trip is suitable for beginners, with gentle Class II rapids that provide excitement without extreme adventure. The experienced guides ensure safety and enjoyment throughout the scenic float trip.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Way?
There are no restroom facilities along the river during the float trip. Guests should plan accordingly before and after the tour. Restrooms are available at the starting and ending meeting points.
Are Dogs Allowed on the Float Trip?
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the Rio Grande float trip. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing pets to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Only service animals are allowed.
The Sum Up
Explore the stunning Rio Grande on a half-day float trip through Taos County, New Mexico. Enjoy gentle Class II rapids, spot local wildlife, and discover ancient Indian art. With experienced guides, a risk-free booking process, and flexible policies, this scenic adventure is perfect for families and beginners. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the natural beauty and rich culture of the region.
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