Class II Rio Grande , NM

The Rio Grande flows out of the snowcapped Rocky Mountains in Colorado and journeys 1,900 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. It passes through the 800-foot chasms of the Rio Grande Gorge, a wild and remote area of northern New Mexico.

Two developed recreation areas are located along the river—Wild Rivers on the north and Orilla Verde in the south. In addition to these scenic recreation areas, visitors can enjoy a spectacular vista of the gorge from the Rio Grande Bridge (aka High Bridge) where Highway 64 crosses the river.

Recreation opportunities include biking, camping, fishing, hiking/backpacking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, horseback riding and whitewater boating.

The Upper Gorge includes the Class II Ute Mountain Run (24 miles), Class V Upper Box (6.5 miles), and Class II-IV Taos Box (15 miles), which takes 6 to 8 hours, including stops for lunch and sightseeing.

The rapids in the Box offer the best whitewater opportunities in New Mexico, through one of the most scenic sections of the Río Grande Gorge. (BLM)

 

For More Information Visit:

Rio Grande, NM - rivers.gov