White water rafting in New Mexico offers a mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and a chance to connect with nature in a way that’s hard to beat. The Far Flung Adventures Rio Grande Racecourse tour, rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from over 200 reviews, is a standout option for those seeking a fun and accessible rafting experience near Taos. Whether you’re new to white water or a seasoned paddler, this trip promises a memorable ride through some of the most engaging Class III rapids in the area.
What we love about this tour is how it combines excellent guides, breathtaking scenery, and great value into a compact 3-hour adventure. The fact that it’s suitable for families and beginners makes it a versatile choice for anyone wanting to dip their toes into white water fun. That said, it’s worth considering that this is a shared activity with a maximum group size of 100, so if you’re looking for exclusivity or a private trip, you might need to explore other options. Overall, it’s a fantastic outing for those in search of an active, scenic, and well-organized experience.
If you’re pondering whether this trip suits your style, it’s particularly ideal for families, first-timers, and travelers wanting a balanced mix of excitement and safety. Those with moderate physical fitness will find it accessible, and the lively atmosphere crafted by knowledgeable guides makes it a trip to remember.
Key Points
- Accessible adventure suitable for all ages and experience levels
- Stunning views of the Rio Grande and surrounding mountains
- Professional guides who prioritize safety and fun
- Includes all gear and snacks, offering excellent value
- Flexible scheduling with options for morning or afternoon trips
- Good for families, first-timers, and groups seeking a lively outing
An In-Depth Look at the Tour
Looking for more options in Taos? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Meeting Point and Starting Off
The adventure kicks off at 85 NM-570, Embudo, NM, where you’ll meet your guides and gear up for a half-day of splashes and smiles. From here, the tour is designed to be straightforward, making it easy to focus on the fun ahead. The logistics are simple: the trip starts with a safety briefing and equipment fitting, including wetsuits, splash jackets, neoprene booties, life jackets, and helmets. The reviews frequently mention the professionalism of guides like Garrett, Billy, and Elena, who are praised for their friendly approach and thorough instructions.
The Gear and Safety Measures
One of the biggest concerns for newcomers is safety, and it’s reassuring to see that Far Flung Adventures provides all necessary gear. Guests mention feeling very secure thanks to well-maintained equipment and attentive guides. During colder months, wetsuits and splash jackets are provided to keep everyone comfortable, which reviewers appreciate, especially given the water’s chill.
The Rapids and Scenery
The main event is the 5-mile trip through Class III rapids, which, according to most reviews, strikes the right balance between excitement and approachability. The rapids are described as fun and exhilarating but not overly intimidating, making this an excellent first white water experience. Reviewers highlight that guides like Garrett or Hank excel at giving clear instructions, ensuring everyone feels confident, even if it’s their first time.
Beyond the water, the views are a major highlight. Several travelers mention the misty mountains and lush surroundings, which appear stunning, especially in the early mornings or during weather changes. Scott S. notes that despite initial nerves about rafting in the rain, the trip turned into a beautiful experience with the “misty mountains and river swallows going crazy.” This suggests that even less-than-perfect weather can add a unique dimension to the adventure.
Light Refreshments and Inclusivity
When the trip concludes, guests are treated to light snacks, which is a thoughtful touch, allowing everyone to relax and chat about the highlights. The inclusive nature of the tour—covering gear, instruction, and snacks—adds to its value.
Group Atmosphere and Guides
Multiple reviews emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with Garrett, Billy, Chaz, and Elena receiving particular praise. They not only keep everyone safe but also share interesting tidbits about the Rio Grande’s history and local surroundings. The guides’ ability to entertain and inform significantly boosts the overall enjoyment, especially for families and first-timers.
Duration and Comfort
At just about 3 hours total, this tour suits those with limited time but still craving a full experience. The group size—usually around 5 guests plus guides—creates a lively yet manageable environment. The shared nature of the activity means you might be paddling alongside strangers, but the guides’ professionalism keeps things running smoothly.
Cost and Value
At $88 per person, this trip offers excellent value considering it includes gear, instruction, snacks, and an experienced guide. The reviews consistently mention how worth it the experience feels, especially given the accessible thrill and scenic beauty.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This trip is perfect for families, as it’s designed to be accessible to children as young as six, with many reviews praising how much kids love it. It’s also ideal for first-time rafters looking for a gentle, fun introduction without the fear of over-the-top rapids. Adventure seekers who appreciate a guided experience with good safety standards will find this appealing, too.
Those who enjoy learning about the local area—thanks to guides sharing tidbits about the Rio Grande and Taos—will appreciate the blend of adventure and education. The tour’s flexible scheduling, with options for morning or afternoon trips, makes it easy to fit into most travel plans.
Practical Considerations
While the water can be chilly, especially in cooler months, the provision of wetsuits helps keep everyone comfortable. The physical effort required is moderate, but guests should have a moderate level of fitness to paddle confidently. The group size of up to 100 travelers might sound large, but most reviews suggest that the guides do a great job managing the crowd and ensuring a personalized experience.
Weather can influence the trip—poor weather might lead to cancellations, but in such cases, a full refund or alternative date is usually offered. It’s advisable to confirm your booking at least 24 hours in advance to avoid any surprises.
The Sum Up
The Far Flung Adventures Rio Grande Racecourse stands out as a highly recommended white water rafting adventure for anyone visiting Taos. Its excellent guides, beautiful scenery, and inclusive pricing make it a reliable choice for families, beginners, and adventure lovers alike. The fact that it consistently earns glowing reviews about safety, fun, and value signals that it’s a well-run operation.
If you’re looking for a scenic, adrenaline-filled activity that won’t break the bank, this tour checks all boxes. It’s a great way to experience New Mexico’s natural beauty while trying something new and exciting. Perfect for those who want to enjoy a balanced mix of thrill and relaxation, this trip will leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish.
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the tour is suitable for families, with many reviews mentioning kids had a blast, including those as young as six.
What should I wear for the trip? Participants are advised to wear attire suitable for getting wet, and wetsuits, splash jackets, and neoprene booties are provided during colder months.
How long does the trip last? The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including gear-up, the rafting itself, and snacks afterward.
Is the activity physically demanding? It’s designed for guests with moderate fitness levels. Paddling and stability are manageable for most, but some effort is involved.
Are restrooms or facilities available at the meeting point? While not explicitly mentioned, meeting points in outdoor adventure tours typically have basic amenities. It’s best to arrive prepared.
What happens if the weather is bad? If weather conditions are unsuitable, the trip may be canceled, with the option for a full refund or rescheduling.
Can I cancel my booking? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for full refunds.
Is this a shared activity? Yes, guests share vehicles and rafts with others, making it a social and lively experience.
Do I need prior rafting experience? No, this trip is suitable for beginners and includes paddle instructions, making it accessible for all.
To sum it up, the Far Flung Adventures Rio Grande Racecourse delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable rafting experience that combines scenic beauty, safety, and fun. It’s an excellent choice for families, first-timers, and anyone wanting a taste of New Mexico’s wild side without complex logistics or over-the-top challenges. With friendly guides and outstanding reviews backing it up, this trip guarantees a splashy good time.