ABIQUIU EVENTS FIELD GUIDE
River Music on the Chama: Three Days with Butch Hancock & Jimmie Dale Gilmore
A three-day Far Flung Adventures float out of Abiquiu that pairs live riverside performances by two Texas songwriting legends with mellow Class II–III paddling, gourmet camp meals, and canyon scenery.
River Music on the Chama: Three Days with Butch Hancock & Jimmie Dale Gilmore.
Float the scenic Chama River from Abiquiu over a long weekend—Friday morning to Sunday afternoon—anchored by campfire concerts, gourmet river meals, and canyoned stretches of river that alternate gentle riffles with brief steeper runs. The trip blends music and river travel into a family-friendly, slow-paced expedition beneath ponderosa and fir, with starry evenings on the riverbank.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Riverside performances at camp
Evenings on the riverbank feature live, campfire music—an essential element of the trip that turns each night into a communal concert under the stars.
Gourmet camp cooking and relaxed campsites
Meals are a focus: expect carefully prepared camp dinners served at riverside campsites that prioritize comfort and conviviality after a day on the water.
Spectacular canyon scenery and starry nights
The route threads evergreen-lined canyon, multi-hued sandstone cliffs and open reservoirs, providing dramatic vistas by day and clear skies for music at night.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
A short morning shuttle from Abiquiu delivers you to a riverside launch; from there the river takes charge—mellow stretches and swift riffles lead to shaded camps where the day unwinds with a hot meal and music. Days alternate easy paddling, optional hikes to side canyons or local peaks, and evenings centered on conversation and live performance beneath the stars.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should consider other options.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring personal clothing and overnight items appropriate for riverside camping; the outfitter provides watercraft options on this family-friendly float.
Participants may choose paddle boat, oar boat, an individual or two‑person inflatable kayak, or a stand‑up paddleboard as appropriate for this mellow river run.
The trip runs on a generally mellow, family‑friendly river with managed campsites and meals; select watercraft to match your comfort and paddling experience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The trip runs from Friday morning through Sunday afternoon.
Where is the meeting point?
The meeting location is Bode's General Store, 21196 US-84, Abiquiu, NM 87510.
What ages can participate?
The trip is open to ages 6 and up.
What types of boats are available?
Options include paddle boats, oar boats, individual or two‑person inflatable kayaks, and stand‑up paddleboards.
What level of paddling skill is required?
The river is generally mellow and family-friendly with Class II riffles; the final day includes longer, steeper rapids up to Class II–III, so basic paddling comfort on moving water is recommended.
Are meals provided?
Yes—gourmet camp cooking is a feature of the trip, with hot breakfasts and prepared dinners at camp.