EL PRADO GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Down the Upper Gorge: Three Days Into the Remote Rio Grande Rift
A three-day guided descent from the upper Rio Grande into the basalt-walled gorge — this guide lays out the route, logistics, and what to expect for Far Flung Adventures' exclusive wilderness run.
Down the Upper Gorge: Three Days Into the Remote Rio Grande Rift.
The Upper Gorge 3 Day Trip is a Far-Flung Adventures exclusive that takes small groups into remote, seldom-paddled sections of the Rio Grande Gorge. Over three days and one night you move from high plains and narrow confluences into steep basalt canyons, trading tranquil stretches for technical Class III–IV whitewater while camping riverside and visiting archaeological petroglyph sites and hot springs.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Seldom-Visited Upper Gorge
This itinerary accesses remote portions of the upper Rio Grande that few companies run; expect stretches of river that many locals have never paddled and a descent that moves the river from a tranquil stream into a steep, technical gorge.
Class III–IV Rapids and Taos Box Thrills
The trip includes sustained whitewater: splashy Class II–III on day one, a long 15-mile stretch of Class III/IV+ through the Taos Box and Powerline Falls on day two, and a Class-III half-day Rio Grande Racecourse on day three.
Wildlife and Archaeology
Short canyon walls and relative inaccessibility create prime raptor habitat; guests may also see river otter, elk, deer and bighorn sheep, and the route includes an ancient petroglyph hunting camp along the first day.
What the day feels like
What the Three Days Feel Like
You begin at the Far Flung boathouse and descend into the gorge by trail and raft: a measured first day of off-and-on Class II–III paddling and a petroglyph stop leads to a riverside camp in the canyon bottom. Day two accelerates into the Taos Box and a sustained stretch of technical whitewater capped by Powerline Falls and Sunset Rapid, before the canyon eases and you camp with basic amenities at Orilla Verde. Day three unwinds through the Lower Gorge with mellow oxbows in the morning and a splashy finish in the Rio Grande Racecourse, finishing at County Line Recreation Area.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The trip runs three days and one night.
Meet at the Far Flung Adventures Boathouse, 15 NM 522, El Prado, NM 87529; day-one meeting at the Far-Flung office begins at 8:00 a.m., after which you drive to the trailhead and load with horse packers.
Guides provide rafting and camping equipment; guests should arrive in normal good health and prepared for moderate exertion, including paddling, possible swimming and rocky hiking.
Guides navigate in paddle rafts or oar boats; photographers capture runs at key rapids during days two and three.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
Three days and one night.
Where and when do we meet on day one?
You meet at the Far Flung Adventures office/boathouse in El Prado; the group gathers at 8:00 a.m. before driving to the trailhead.
What ages can participate?
Beginning rafters are welcome at 14 years of age and older; younger participants may be considered only if they have experience.
Is camping and rafting gear provided?
Yes — customers are provided with all rafting and camping equipment needed for the trip.
How technical is the whitewater?
Expect a mix of splashy Class II–III on day one, sustained Class III/IV+ through the Taos Box on day two, and a Class-III racecourse section on day three.
Will we see wildlife or archaeological sites?
Yes — the route includes wildlife viewing opportunities (raptors, river otter, elk, deer and bighorn sheep) and a stop at an ancient petroglyph hunting camp.