EMBUDO GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Overnight on the Lower Gorge: A fast, family-friendly run down the Rio Grande
A compact overnight rafting and camping trip from Far Flung Adventures that floats the Orilla Verde into a private riverside camp, then runs the class III Racecourse the next morning — useful for planning family and beginner-friendly whitewater.
Overnight on the Lower Gorge: A fast, family-friendly run down the Rio Grande.
The Rio Grande Express is a short, easy overnight on the Lower Gorge of the Rio Grande out of Embudo: an afternoon float that settles at a private beachside camp, a fireside night under cottonwoods, and a splashy morning on the Racecourse class III rapids before a midday return to your vehicle.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Lower Gorge floats and private riverside camp
Spend an afternoon drifting the Orilla Verde stretch to a secluded Far Flung riverside property where camp is set on a private beach with basic amenities and space for beach games and fireside meals.
Two-stage trip: mellow float then a splashy morning
The itinerary pairs a relaxed afternoon float to camp with a morning run on the Racecourse class III section, giving guests a chance to choose raft or inflatable kayak for the second day.
Family- and beginner-friendly whitewater
Designed for groups and families, the Express is suitable for beginners aged 6 and up; guides handle navigation in paddleboats or oar-powered rafts while guests paddle and enjoy the fun rapids.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Start at the Far Flung riverside office for orientation and equipment, take a scenic float from John Dunn Bridge through Orilla Verde to a comfortable beach camp for a fireside dinner and an easy night, then wake to a leisurely breakfast and a second-day run through the class III Racecourse before returning to the office around noon.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Express runs April through October and the itinerary spans roughly 24 hours with an afternoon start and a return around noon the next day.
Meet at the Far Flung Riverside location at 85 NM-570 in Embudo for a 2:00pm check-in; you will be issued rafting and camping equipment and take a short drive to John Dunn Bridge to begin the float.
Guests receive necessary rafting and camping equipment from the operator; bring personal clothing suited to river days and evenings at camp, and be prepared for paddling and possible swimming.
Participants should be active and in normal good health and prepared for some exertion while paddling; guides manage navigation and safety on the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Rio Grande Express?
The trip totals just under 24 hours with one night of camping — an afternoon start and a return around noon the following day.
Where and when do we meet?
Meet at the Far Flung Riverside location at 85 NM-570 in Embudo for a 2:00pm orientation and equipment issue.
What is the minimum age and fitness requirement?
The trip welcomes guests aged 6 and older; participants should be active and in normal good health and be prepared for paddling and the possibility of swimming.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No prior experience is required; the Express is beginner-friendly with guides doing the navigating in paddleboats or oar-powered rafts.
Can I kayak instead of rafting?
Yes — paddleboats are most common, but more adventurous guests may request inflatable kayaks for either day on the water.