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The Rio Grande and Red River join forces at the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, cutting an 800-foot-deep swath through the Taos Plateau. The land at river's edge is lush and green, painted with cottonwood trees and willows.
The area, 48 miles north of Taos, is home to coyotes, black bears, bobcats and mule deer. The waters are renowned for fishing, offering plentiful stores of rainbow and German brown trout. The area is open year-round for camping, fishing and hiking.
Twenty-two miles of rim and river trails offer a variety of hiking options. Most trails begin at campgrounds where day use parking areas are available. Trails are steep and hiking can be strenuous. Good physical condition, sturdy shoes and plenty of drinking water are required.
The Wild Rivers Nature Trail is an easy interpretive loop along the canyon rims of the Red River and the Rio Grande at La Junta Point. The trail is about .5-mile long and takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.
Mountain bike trails include the Rinconada Loop Trail, a 6.1-mile multi-use rim trail and the Red River Fault Loop, a 5.2-mile two track trail. Bike riders must stay on roads or designated trails.
Sections of the rushing waters are popular with rafting companies, but all are too dangerous for paddlers. At some points in the canyon, rapids are rated a nearly unnavigable Class VI. Please call the Taos Field Office for more information.
A paved, backcountry road parallels the Rio Grande for 13 miles, with sweeping views of the river below. At Chiflo Overlook, an ancient volcano rises nearly 9,000 feet.
Wild Rivers has five developed campgrounds and a picnic area, each with tables, grills, drinking water and restroom facilities. Camping is permitted in designated sites only.
Outdoor Activities |
A rock-bound trails wends through the Wild River Recreation Area.
Stirring the coals at a campsite along the Rio Grande Gorge.
The Rio Grande cuts a deep swath through the Taos Plateau at the Wild River Recreation Area.
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