New-Mexico Whitewater

RIO EMBUDO


STREAMFLOW: 314 CFS

Class III-IV River Run

The Rio Embudo in New Mexico is a popular whitewater river run that offers exciting rapids and scenic views. The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 200 and 1,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), with the best conditions occurring in the spring months. The river is rated as a Class III-IV, meaning that it is recommended for experienced paddlers.

The segment mileage for the Rio Embudo is approximately 8 miles, with the run typically taking between 2 to 4 hours to complete. The river features several challenging rapids, including Big Arsenic, which is a Class IV rapid with a narrow chute and a steep drop. Other notable rapids include El Aguaje and The Narrows.

There are specific regulations that visitors to the Rio Embudo must follow. For example, all boaters are required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river. Additionally, camping is permitted only in designated areas.

In conclusion, the Rio Embudo is a thrilling whitewater river run that offers challenging rapids and stunning scenery. Paddlers should be experienced and aware of the specific regulations in the area. The ideal streamflow range is between 200 and 1,000 cfs, and the river is rated as a Class III-IV. Get driving directions.
RIO EMBUDO
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 133 cfs (4.02 ft)
Percent of Normal 267%
Reporting Streamgauge RIO PUEBLO NR PENASCO, NM
Elevation 7,800 ft.
River
Watershed Upper Rio Grande

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Big Arsenic Springs - Wild Rivers Rec Area Numerous 7,516 ft
Taos Junction Numerous 6,071 ft
El Aguaje - Wild Rivers Rec Area Numerous 7,467 ft
Glorieta 5 10,039 ft
Little Arsenic Springs Numerous 7,498 ft
La Junta - Wild Rivers Rec Area Numerous 7,465 ft
Tererro - State Fish and Game 10 7,714 ft
Borrego Mesa 9 8,719 ft
Orilla Verde Rec Area Numerous 6,049 ft
Panchuela 6 8,330 ft
Field Tract 15 7,408 ft
Overlook - Santa Cruz Lake 25 6,683 ft
Cowles 9 8,216 ft
Hyde Memorial State Park 57 8,529 ft
Big Tesuque 10 9,723 ft
Black Canyon 36 8,389 ft
Cebolla Mesa 5 7,372 ft
Montoso - Wild Rivers Rec Area Numerous 7,500 ft
Holy Ghost 24 8,239 ft
Aspen Basin 10 10,219 ft
North Lake - Santa Cruz Lake 25 6,346 ft