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Experience a Scenic Half-Day Float in Taos, New Mexico with Far Flung Adventures
Float down the peaceful Rio Grande through the calm oxbows of the Orilla Verde National Recreation Area, where you’ll enjoy scenic views of towering basalt cliffs and a lush riverside habitat set against a high desert backdrop; this open canyon run near Taos, New Mexico blends easy Class II rapids with relaxed swimming stops, offering a balanced Water-Based adventure that’s ideal for families, Outdoor & Nature lovers, and anyone seeking a scenic rafting experience.
About this activity in Taos
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Float the tranquil oxbows of the Rio Grande through Orilla Verde National Recreation Area for sweeping views of basalt cliffs and high desert landscapes.
- Enjoy a mix of mellow Class II rapids and peaceful stretches that let you spot lush riverside habitat and local wildlife along the riverbanks.
- Cool off with supervised swimming stops in calm river pools-an ideal blend of relaxation and light adventure for families and groups.
- Experience the canyon scenery with a professional local guide who leads the trip and shares insight into the area's geology and ecosystems.
Important Information
- This shared rafting experience departs from the Orilla Verde area near Taos, New Mexico; you may share rafts and transport with other guests.
- You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to board, paddle when directed, and enjoy short swims; guides manage safety throughout the trip.
- The trip and transportation options are wheelchair accessible and most surfaces at the launch area accommodate mobility needs-please contact us in advance to confirm accommodations.
- Gratuities for guides are not included in the booking price and can be given at your discretion after the trip.
Meeting Point
Meet at the designated Orilla Verde river launch area near the Rio Grande; exact meeting location and detailed directions will be emailed to you after booking.
Includes
- You’ll be accompanied by a local guide familiar with Taos and the surrounding area.
- A professional guide is provided to lead the activity and ensure a safe, informative experience.
Excludes
- Gratuities are not included and are at your discretion.
Other
- Wheelchair accessible: the activity and facilities are wheelchair accessible for easier access in the region.
- Wheelchair-accessible transportation: transportation options provided are wheelchair accessible.
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible to support guests with mobility needs.
- Fitness requirement: you should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to participate.
- Shared experience: this is a shared activity, and you should expect to share vehicles and/or rafts with other parties.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Summary:
We had the best time today with Brian! The weather was beautiful. We had a party of 7: 3 adults, 3 teens, and 1 child. We had a raft, a paddle board, and a kayak. Our party rotated through the paddle board and kayak but the raft was awesome for people to rest and enjoy the beautiful views. We saw ducks and river otters, it was peaceful and the rapids were slightly technical but totally manageable even for our primary paddle boarder (a moderately experienced 14-year-old).
Brian is an EXCELLENT teacher and guide. He was so chill, friendly, and knowledgeable, he helped make executive decisions that were the best for our group, he’s a great conversationalist, well-read and interesting, and great with young people. Such a good vibe!
Thanks so much!
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Summary:
We had a relaxing float trip along the Rio Grande river. There were a few class 2 rapids - nothing much, but easy for one of us who was a little concerned about rapids!
It was late in the season and we were the only ones on the raft.
Our guide was interesting and the changing colors and wildlife we saw were beautiful.
This was a nice way to spend a morning and we were out on the river for close to two hours.
Next time, we may want to step up to a more adventurous rafting experience!
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Summary:
Brian was very calm and did a great job of explaining everything and we had a great experience. We couldn’t of asked for better weather it was absolutely a beautiful experience
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Know more about Taos
You’ll float through calm oxbows and an open canyon that frames towering basalt cliffs and a high desert ecosystem. The trip highlights a lush riverside habitat, scenic sightseeing opportunities, and gentle Class II rapids-ideal if you want a mix of outdoor nature, Water-Based fun, and peaceful river views near Taos.
You’ll see a high desert ecosystem and a lush riverside habitat along the Rio Grande, framed by dramatic basalt cliffs. The open canyon provides excellent opportunities for Nature & Wildlife viewing, landscape photography, and peaceful sightseeing from the water.
The activity is wheelchair accessible in transportation and common areas, and it’s a shared activity-so you should expect to share rafts and vehicles with other parties. A professional local guide is included to help ensure a smooth experience.
Yes-the rafting course features calm oxbows and Class II rapids, making it family-friendly and well suited for Group-Friendly outings. You can expect accessible swimming spots and plenty of riverside scenery that appeal to both children and adults interested in outdoor nature and Water-Based activities.
The trip includes Class II rapids and calm stretches, so you should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to participate comfortably. Swimming is part of the experience during suitable stops, allowing you to enjoy the river and riverside habitat.
Your trip includes a professional local guide and focuses on the scenic and recreational highlights of the Orilla Verde area. For booking, note the provider’s cancellation window for a full refund is at least 24 hours before departure; gratuities are not included.
