Wine and Waves on the Rio Chama: A Three-Day Blend of Small-Batch Wine and River Canyon Adventure

ABIQUIU GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Wine and Waves on the Rio Chama: A Three-Day Blend of Small-Batch Wine and River Canyon Adventure

A guided, three-day rafting and camping trip from Abiquiu that pairs award-winning small-batch wines and gourmet camp meals with scenic Class II–III whitewater and canyon hiking.

Wine and Waves on the Rio Chama: A Three-Day Blend of Small-Batch Wine and River Canyon Adventure.

Duration
Friday Morning - Sunday Afternoon
Location
Abiquiu
Operator
Far Flung Adventures
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Sip small-batch wines crafted by award-winning Katie Hagan amid the evergreen-lined canyons of the Rio Chama, then trade tasting notes for river maps and campfire banter on this family-friendly, three-day guided outing that blends nature, wine, and adventure.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE FLAVORS

Daily Wine Menus and an Award-Winning Winemaker

Taste a daily wine menu and pairings led in part by winemaker Katie Hagan—an award-winning vintner who joins the trip downstream to share the craft and history behind the wines.

THE KITCHEN

Gourmet Camp Cooking

Expect restaurant-quality, campsite dinners and thoughtful pairings that punctuate evenings beneath ponderosa pines and Douglas firs after a day on the river.

THE ROUTE

Canyon Scenery and Playful Rapids

The route threads evergreen-lined canyon, multihued sandstone cliffs and brisk riffles—from Aragon Rapids (Class II) to a lively Class II–III whitewater section as you approach the headwaters of the Abiquiu Reservoir.

What the day feels like

What the Three Days Feel Like

This is an intimate, multi-sensory trip that alternates river-based motion with slow, communal moments—hearty breakfasts and a relaxed morning on day two, afternoon hikes to side canyons and peaks, and evenings of paired wines, gourmet camp meals and campfire conversation.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits—and who to think twice.

1
CouplesA compact three-day outing that balances quiet canyon scenery with shared wine tastings and gourmet meals—well suited to couples looking for an active yet relaxed escape.
2
Active FamiliesFamily-friendly: the trip accepts rafters ages 6 and up and offers mellow stretches suitable for younger paddlers alongside more playful rapids for older kids.
3
Novice PaddlersNo prior experience is necessary; multiple craft options and guided running of primarily Class II rapids make this accessible to beginners.
4
Wine and Food EnthusiastsDesigned for travelers who want to pair outdoor time with serious small-batch wine tasting and gourmet camp cuisine, including commentary from the winemaker.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Bring standard river-camping clothing and layers suitable for canyon sun and cool evenings; details on personal gear will be provided by the operator—expect to pack for three days with overnight camping.

Boat Options & Skill

Paddle boat, oar boat, individual or two-man inflatable kayak, and stand-up paddleboard are all available; no prior experience is necessary.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Where and when do we meet for the trip?

The meeting point is Bode's General Store, 21196 US-84, Abiquiu, NM; the itinerary runs Friday morning through Sunday afternoon.

Who operates the Wine and Waves trip?

The trip is operated by Far Flung Adventures.

Do I need prior rafting or paddling experience?

No prior experience is necessary; the trip provides guided options suitable for beginners.

What craft types are available on the river?

Options include paddle boats, oar boats, individual or two‑man inflatable kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards.

What are the river difficulty levels on this route?

Expect Class II rapids early in the route (Aragon Rapids) and a lively Class II–III whitewater section as you approach the Abiquiu upper Reservoir.

Will the winemaker be on the trip?

Yes—winemaker Katie Hagan joins downstream to discuss her vinting process and the farm history, and the trip features a daily wine menu and pairings.