New-Mexico Whitewater
RIO GRANDE
STREAMFLOW: 426 CFS
The Rio Grande Whitewater River Run is a popular destination for kayakers and rafters in New Mexico. The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 800-1,200 cubic feet per second (cfs) and the class rating is between III-IV. The segment mileage for the Rio Grande is approximately 17 miles, running from Pilar to the Taos Junction Bridge.
The river rapids and obstacles on this section of the Rio Grande include the Rock Garden, Power Line, and the infamous Souse Hole. The Rock Garden is a series of boulders that create a technical section of rapids, while the Power Line is a steep drop with large waves. The Souse Hole is a powerful hydraulic that requires skillful navigation.
There are specific regulations for this area, including a permit requirement for commercial outfitters and a limit of 25 people per trip. Additionally, life jackets and helmets are required for all participants and camping is only allowed in designated areas.
Get driving directions.
The river rapids and obstacles on this section of the Rio Grande include the Rock Garden, Power Line, and the infamous Souse Hole. The Rock Garden is a series of boulders that create a technical section of rapids, while the Power Line is a steep drop with large waves. The Souse Hole is a powerful hydraulic that requires skillful navigation.
There are specific regulations for this area, including a permit requirement for commercial outfitters and a limit of 25 people per trip. Additionally, life jackets and helmets are required for all participants and camping is only allowed in designated areas.
Get driving directions.
| Last Updated | 2024-04-25 |
| River Levels | 315 cfs (10.54 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 318% |
| Reporting Streamgauge | EMBUDO CREEK AT DIXON, NM |
| Elevation | 5,862 ft. |
| River | |
| Watershed | Upper Rio Grande |
Nearby Camping
| Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aspen Basin | 10 | 10,219 ft | |||
| Black Canyon | 36 | 8,389 ft | |||
| Holy Ghost | 24 | 8,239 ft | |||
| Taos Junction | Numerous | 6,071 ft | |||
| Orilla Verde Rec Area | Numerous | 6,049 ft | |||
| Hyde Memorial State Park | 57 | 8,529 ft | |||
| North Lake - Santa Cruz Lake | 25 | 6,346 ft | |||
| Big Tesuque | 10 | 9,723 ft | |||
| Overlook - Santa Cruz Lake | 25 | 6,683 ft | |||
| Borrego Mesa | 9 | 8,719 ft | |||
| Cebolla Mesa | 5 | 7,372 ft |
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