ABIQUIU GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Days on the Rio Chama: A Family-Friendly Float Through Ponderosa, Rapids and Rainbow Cliffs
A guided, overnight float from alpine woodlands to the head of Abiquiu Reservoir featuring lively class II rapids, riverside camps, hikes and gourmet camp meals—this guide collects the practical essentials for the Rio Chama 2 Day Trip.
Two Days on the Rio Chama: A Family-Friendly Float Through Ponderosa, Rapids and Rainbow Cliffs.
The Rio Chama 2 Day Trip threads from clear, trout-filled alpine streams into a silty desert river that rolls beneath the rainbow-colored cliffs of Georgia O’Keeffe country. On a short overnight stretch, the trip pairs evergreen-lined canyon scenery and splashy class II rapids with accessible riverside camps, scenic hikes and riverside meals prepared by an experienced guide operation.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
From alpine woodlands to rainbow-colored canyon walls
The route begins among ponderosa and Douglas fir, moves through the designated Chama Canyon Wilderness and finishes where colorful cliffs rise above the head of Abiquiu Reservoir—an arc from high-elevation trout water to desert canyon river.
Lively, family-friendly rapids and quiet wilderness floats
Expect a series of fun, splashy class II rapids and long, scenic stretches ideal for first-time rafters and families—the river alternates riffles and quieter pools as it carves the canyon.
Riverside camps, gourmet meals and relaxed evenings
Camps are on high-water benches beneath pines, with full camp breakfasts, riverside lunches and classic Far Flung dinners—comfortable camp ambiance is a central part of the two-day experience.
What the day feels like
How the two days unfold
You meet in Abiquiu in the morning, drive north to the launch at El Vado Ranch, and immediately slide into riffles and evergreen-lined canyon. Day camps sit beneath ponderosa pines; mornings offer optional side-canyon hikes or a climb toward Navaho Peak before the river narrows and the canyon walls grow taller, finishing mid-afternoon at the Chavez Canyon takeout.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The trip runs from 9:00 a.m. on day one to mid-afternoon on day two (aiming to return participants to vehicles around 3:00 p.m.). The group meets at Bode’s General Store, 21196 US-84, Abiquiu, NM for gear organization and a drive to the launch.
Bring personal camping gear unless you rent a sleep kit (tents, sleeping bags and pads are not included by default). The operator provides waterproof drybags for personal items and camp chairs; a sleep kit (one two-man tent, one sleeping bag and pad) is available for an additional $12 per night.
Guides prepare riverside lunches and full camp breakfasts and dinners as part of the trip; meals may include home-roasted sandwich meats and homemade dips and salsas. Notify the operator in advance about any allergies or special food needs.
Participants may choose from paddle boats, oar boats, individual or two-man inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddleboards as available on the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages can participate?
The trip welcomes first-time rafters 6 years of age and older.
How long is the trip and when do we meet?
The trip departs at 9:00 a.m. on day one and ends in the mid-afternoon on day two, with a target return to vehicles around 3:00 p.m.; the meeting point is Bode’s General Store in Abiquiu.
Are meals and camping gear included?
Guides prepare riverside lunches and camp breakfasts and dinners; waterproof drybags and camp chairs are provided. Tents, sleeping bags and pads are not included by default, though a sleep kit is available for an additional $12 per night.
What level of fitness is required?
Participants should be in normal, good health and prepared for the mild exertions of paddling, camping and possible swimming.
How technical are the rapids and is this suitable for beginners?
The river features fun, splashy class II rapids and is described as family-friendly and accessible to most ages and abilities.
Do you need to bring your own boat or equipment?
Boat options are provided by the operator—paddle boats, oar boats, individual or two‑man inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available—personal items should be packed in the provided waterproof drybags.