A Wild and Scenic River – New Mexico Posted On: April 4, 2024 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: New Mexico, Rio Grande Tagged In: Rio Grande, Wild and Scenic Wild and Scenic Rivers of America The are more than 220 wild and scenic rivers and streams covering more than 13,000 miles in the United States. This designation protects the river’s unique characteristics and water quality. These esteemed rivers are protected for people’s use and enjoyment into the future. Each individual waterway is regulated by either the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, US Forest Service or US Fish and Wildlife Service. For instance, the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) regulate our Rio Grande here in New Mexico. Additionally, this helps protect biodiversity and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change. We are proud to have the opportunity to offer you access to one of America’s greatest treasures. To us water is sacred. The Rio Grande (big river in Spanish) is 1,896 miles long, stretching from the San Juan Mountains of southern Colorado to the Gulf of Mexico. Further information about our favorite river can be found on New Wave’s website. New Wave Rafting Book online at newwaverafting.com Or simply give us a call. 800-984-1444
Raft Guide Training 2024 Posted On: January 24, 2024 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: Guide Training Program Tagged In: employment, guide job, guide training New Wave’s Guide Training Program FREE to those who qualify (see note below) Training starts May 1st 2024 and is your ticket to: The GREATEST Job In The World. This is New Wave Rafting’s 44rd year of offering our Guide Training Program (GTP) to the general public. It begins with an intensive 7 days of on-the-water instruction and class work, followed by a period of apprenticeship in which you will both guide NWR guests in the company of a NWR instructor, and practice with other trainees. Trainees demonstrating an adequate grasp of guiding essentials or the Memorial Day holiday, which ever comes first, will conclude the apprenticeship. Expect your training to include between 20 to 30 trips on the Racecourse section. In addition, NWR provides all necessary safety equipment for participation in the GTP. First Aid and CPR certifications are required prior to employment. “River Guide Personal Gear”will then need to purchased . Practice Further more, NWR’s equipment will be available for practice trips done with other trainees (no friends/no family). Such practice will be organized by trainees. Cost $525.00 (tax and user fee included) A $100.00 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your space, with the balance due prior to the beginning of the GTP. After commencement of the GTP, no refunds will be given. NOTE: On the other hand, a refund of 100% the cost for the GTP will be given to new guides who commit to a full schedule (5 days/wk) and complete the season. Requirements 18 years of age and a good swimmer. What to Bring In addition participants will provide their own lunch and a change of clothes for the end of each day. This program is no push over. However, you will discover that guiding is The Greatest Job in the World! Feel free to call or email with any questions. 1-800-984-1444 newwaverafting@gmail.com “Why the Job of the Professional River Guide Will Never Die” from Paddling Magazine New Wave Rafting
The Rio Chama Posted On: January 10, 2023 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: Rio Chama Tagged In: New Mexico rafting, New Wave Rafting, Rio Chama Our other river is the Rio Chama. It joins the Rio Grande at Española, just 20 miles to the south of our headquarters in Embudo. Additionally the Rio Grande runs through mainly volcanic scenery . Read More…
Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River Posted On: July 23, 2022 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: Rio Chama Tagged In: New Mexico rafting, Rio Chama, Rio Chama rafting, Wild and Scenic The Rio Chama is 120 miles long, beginning in the southern San Juan Mountains of South-Central Colorado. It joins the Rio Grande near Espanola, NM. In 1978, the Rio Chama was designated as part of the Santa Fe National Forest as wilderness. In addition, 31 miles of the river were further protected as a Federal Wild and Scenic River in 1988. Commercial outfitters must have a special use permit issued by the Bureau of Land Management. However, private boaters float the section downstream of the Christ in the Desert Monastery without a permit, but overnight float trips on the Wild portion (above the Monastery) require permits. A float down the river offers access to many interesting side canyons, with trails leading to peaks and mesa tops. This area of New Mexico is characterized by multi-colored sandstone cliffs and cottonwood groves along the river which was made famous by the paintings of Georgia O’Keefe In addition, many bird species depend on the water and riparian vegetation. Seen along the river are various raptors as well as ducks, mergansers, Canada geese and great blue heron. Large number of Cliff and Violet Green swallows make their nests on the riverside cliffs. Also found along the river are bald and golden eagles, as well as hawks, owls, and falcons. The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish regulate the fishing of the Rio Chama. Some species found in the Rio Chama include brown trout, Rio Grande chub, fathead minnow, rainbow trout, longnose dace, and carp. New Wave’s Rio Chama 1 day The Chama is a dam-release river therefore varies greatly from day to day. Thus, the duration of the trip varies accordingly. This trip is only available on Saturday or Sunday. A Buffet-style lunch, life jacket, rain gear, helmet, paddle and of course a professional guide are provided. Also, we can bring along funyaks at no extra cost in low water conditions (for those in good physical condition). Just ask. Visit Rio Chama at New Wave Rafting for reservations. See you on the Rio
The Rio Chama Experience Posted On: July 8, 2022 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: Rio Chama Tagged In: family fun, Funyak, Rio Chama The Rio Chama is located in the area of New Mexico made famous in the paintings of Georgia O’Keefe. This is a very scenic full-day trip through the canyon of the lower Rio Chama is in the Santa Fe National Forest. The rafting trip is from the Christ of the Desert Monastery to the Big Eddy take-out, with Class 2 to 3 (easy to moderate) whitewater. This is the area of New Mexico characterized by multi-colored sandstone cliffs and cottonwood groves along the river. Funyaks are perfect for this trip. When to Raft The weekends in late June, July, August and the beginning of September are guaranteed release weekends. The water is released from El Vado dam starting on Friday at noon and shut down on the following Sunday. Therefore the assured days for rafting are Saturday and Sunday. Who Should Raft the Rio Chama This full day trip of the Rio Chama is perfect for the entire family. The minimum age is 5. Family Funyaks Single person Funyaks, as seen in the photo below, are a great addition to the rafting adventure. Visit New Wave Rafting for more information. See You on the Rio.
June is National Rivers Month Posted On: June 23, 2022 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: Nature Tagged In: june, national, Rio Grande June, National Rivers Month is celebrated around the world in over 60 countries. National Rivers Month History The month of June, National Rivers Month, is celebrated every year to showcase the importance of rivers across the globe. The idea of an international event highlighting the value of rivers was inspired by the British Columbia Rivers Day, founded by Mark Angelo. Therefore, it focuses on the Earth’s waterways and effective ways to save water for future generations. Celebrating National Rivers Month 1. River cleanups are a great way to protect the rivers from toxic pollution and make them a safer place for all. 2. For example, playing water sports is a great way to improve your mental and physical health. 3. By arranging a meetup, everyone gets a chance to explore their local river heritage and discuss ways of how to protect it from the adverse effects of climate change and urbanization. Why National Rivers Month is Important 1. In short, to stay fit and healthy, it’s important to spend time outdoors in the fresh air and open areas along rivers. 2. Protected rivers play a key role in providing water to locals that are safe to drink. 3. In addition, more than 80% of migrant species of birds and wildlife require riverside areas to survive. In conclusion, rivers are fundamental to our health and well-being. American Rivers takes a closer look. See You on the Rio New Wave Rafting LLC
Inflatable Kayaks on the Racecourse Posted On: June 20, 2022 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: Inflatable Kayak Tagged In: Funyak, inflatable kayak, Racecourse Inflatable kayaks, also known as Funyaks, are becoming more and more popular. The Racecourse The five miles of the Racecourse rapids run below the steep Pilar cliffs on the south and basalt mesas on the north. Rockfall from these formations have created the Racecourse rapids, named for raft and kayak races held there every Mothers’ Day. At low water funyaks may be used, along with smaller rafts. The river warms to swimming temperatures (70+) in mid-summer. This stretch is contained in the scenic section of the federal Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. Funyaks (inflatable kayaks) We provide Funyaks at no extra cost in low water conditions. Just ask. Those who are new to kayaking or who want an introduction into the paddling world are in luck because inflatable kayaks are known to be excellent for beginners. You will be given special instructions at the beginning of the trip. Funyaking is NOT for everyone, and requires some athletic ability. If you are over 250 lbs. or in poor physical condition you may find it impossible to sit comfortably in a funyak. See You On The Rio. Check out our Instagram Page.
How River Levels Affect Your River Trip Posted On: June 8, 2022 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: River trips Tagged In: family fun, Funyak, Racecourse rapids, Taos Box River levels of New Mexico’s Rio Grande are dynamic. Why Do Water Levels Fluctuate? The Rio Grande is one of the longest continuous rivers in the United States. Born in the deep snows of southern Colorado it provides water and recreation for Colorado, New Mexico and Texas. The winter snow pack determines just how much water fills the river in the spring. Every year that amount is different. Other factors such as water rights for irrigation and municipal water affect that amount of flow. Late summer water level at Big Rocks Rapid. How Do Different River Levels Affect Your Trip? Rafting conditions depend on just how much water flows through the river canyon. Water levels tend to be higher throughout the spring and into the summer. Some years our monsoon season in July and August can also raise levels. For those seeking the highest adventure level, the early season May and June can provide the thrills and chills and the best whitewater excitement. Further into the summer the river becomes lower and produces the best whitewater fun for families and kids. Summer fun includes piloting your own inflatable kayak or funyak through the scenic parts of the canyon. The Racecourse, so named for the annual Mother’s Day race event, becomes technically challenging through medium size rapids. Here your guide will pilot you through Albert’s Falls, Herringbone, The Narrows, Big Rocks, and Souse Hole! Early spring high water of the Taos Box. SEE YOU ON THE RIO! (images courtesy of BrittRunyonImages)
Mother’s Day Whitewater Race Posted On: May 5, 2022 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: New Mexico, Rio Grande Events Tagged In: Rio Grande, rio grande gorge Join American Whitewater Staff at the 64th Annual Mother’s Day Races (NM) Posted: 04/12/2022 By: Kestrel Kunz 64th Annual Mother’s Day Races are Back in Person! Pilar, NM – May 6-8, 2022 This Mother’s Day weekend, American Whitewater’s affiliate club, the Adobe Whitewater Club of New Mexico, is hosting the 64th annual Mother’s Day Races in beautiful Pilar, NM, May 6-8. This year’s event will include down river races, slalom competition, and a freestyle or downriver rodeo and river surf competition (depending on water levels) on the 6 mile Class III whitewater section of the Rio Grande named for the race itself – The Racecourse. Racers can choose to kayak, canoe, SUP or raft down river and the Slalom course is open to kayaks, canoes and SUP. Registration starts at 9 am. Races begin at 10 am. Saturday. Friday evening May 6th there is a dutch-oven cook off at Rio Bravo group shelter. Races are held on Saturday May 7th. On Sunday Adobe Whitewater hosts community paddle trips (a perfect opportunity to go paddling with your Mom!). There is limited first come-first served, camping available at the Rio Bravo group campground.This is just a short distance from the race starting point. Additional campsites are available in the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument. Awards, prizes, and a raffle will be held at the Rio Bravo group shelter Saturday night. American Whitewater staff will be at the event talking about our work in New Mexico. Stop by the booth and say hi. Register online at www.mothersdaywhitewater.com For questions please contact board@adobewhitewater.org attn: Michael Carney Photo credit: Britt Runyon Images In addition to the event, New Wave Rafting will be offering trips on the Racecourse both morning and afternoon as well as the No Wave Float trip through the beautiful Rio Grande del Norte Monument. The snow is melting in the high country and the river is beautiful this spring. Get out there and go rafting! Call us at 800-984-1444 today or book you trip online for a 10% discount.
Best Family Rafting in New Mexico Posted On: May 2, 2022 By: Britt Runyon Filed Under: New Mexico, River trips Tagged In: best rafting, family fun, New Mexico rafting, Rio Grande del Norte National Monument “What’s the best rafting trip for my family?” The Moon family The best rafting in New Mexico can be found on the Rio Grande, near Taos. For instance, it features thrilling Class 4 rapids of the Taos Box that are demanding and not for the timid. However, there are sections providing fun for the whole family (ages 4 and up). Your river adventure will be interspersed with calm stretches to swim, rapids and a unique river canyon. The class III rapids that provide constant excitement for school-aged kids and not appropriate for toddlers is The Race Course Section. On the contrary, not all kids are ready for the rigors of standard whitewater trips. The best trip for families with toddlers 4 to 5 years of age is the New Wave No Wave. This intro to rafting is perfect for young children and their wary parents. The most challenging adventure for families with teenagers is of course the thrilling Taos Box section. This full-day river trip traverses 16 miles of wilderness gorge, encountering demanding rapids. The Rio Chama offers up a unique family experience with Class 2/3 rapids. Characterized by multi-colored sandstone cliffs and cottonwood groves along the river. This trip is an extraordinary adventure. For all the details: New Wave Trips See You On The Rio! images courtesy of BrittRunyonImages.com