Taos & Rio Grande: Whitewater Rafting Racecourse Half-Day Tour

Summary

Whitewater splashes, laughter echoing off canyon walls, Rio Grande’s pulse

You’ll paddle through lively Class III rapids with an expert guide leading your shared raft along New Mexico’s Rio Grande Racecourse. Expect quick splashes, local stories, and moments of calm between bursts of whitewater. Perfect for first-timers or families—by the end you might be sun-kissed and grinning wider than you thought possible.

What’s the experience like?

"If you fall in, just remember—feet up and smile for the camera!" That’s what our guide, Mike, shouted as we wobbled into our raft on the banks of the Rio Grande. I’d never met anyone who could tie a knot while telling stories about river otters and local chili recipes at the same time. The morning sun was already warming the rocks but there was this sharp chill coming off the water that made me shiver a little—nerves or excitement, I’m still not sure.

The first rapid hit sooner than I expected. Not huge, but enough to send cold spray right up my nose (I probably shrieked). Everyone laughed, even the family from Albuquerque who’d never paddled before. Mike kept calling out paddle commands—sometimes in Spanish just to keep us on our toes—and pointed out where swallows nest under the bridge. There was this moment where everything slowed down between rapids: cottonwoods flickering green above us, river smell all mineral and sage, someone’s hat floating by (we rescued it). For a second I forgot about anything except how bright everything felt.

Three hours went by fast. We swapped stories with another group at a calm bend—one kid asked if there were piranhas (Mike just grinned). My arms were tired but in that good way. I didn’t expect to feel so connected to these strangers after only a half-day on the water. When we pulled out at the end, shoes full of sand and faces sunburned in weird patterns, I caught myself wishing we could go back upstream and do it again. So yeah—if you’re thinking about a day trip on the Rio Grande Racecourse from Taos or Santa Fe, don’t overthink it. Just go get wet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half-day whitewater adventure

• Gear up for whitewater adventure
• Enjoy 3-hour Class III rafting trip

Top questions

How long is the Rio Grande Racecourse rafting tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours on the river.

Is this whitewater rafting trip suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s ideal for first-timers, families, and all ages with moderate fitness.

Do I need to bring my own gear for this rafting tour?

No, all necessary gear is provided as part of your booking.

Are guides included on the Rio Grande rafting trip?

Yes, every raft is led by a professional local guide.

Will we share rafts with other people?

Yes, this is a shared activity and rafts may include guests from other parties.

Where does the tour start from?

The tour takes place on New Mexico’s Rio Grande Racecourse near Taos and Santa Fe.

What class are the rapids on this trip?

This route features Class III whitewater rapids.

Is lunch included in this half-day rafting experience?

No meals are included; only professional guiding is provided.

What’s included

Your half-day includes all necessary rafting gear plus guidance from a professional local river guide throughout your shared adventure on New Mexico’s Rio Grande Racecourse.