DIXON RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Kokopelli Racecourse — A Half‑Day Run of Rio Grande Whitewater
A guided, five‑mile half‑day rafting trip on the Rio Grande that ranges from technical class III in summer to class III–IV in spring; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Kokopelli Racecourse — A Half‑Day Run of Rio Grande Whitewater.
The Kokopelli Racecourse is a five‑mile stretch of the Rio Grande outside Dixon that delivers a compact, half‑day dose of whitewater. It runs all season: expect wild class III–IV surf and cold waves during the high water of late May and early June, and a more technical class III experience with warm‑water swims and raft‑surfing as flows drop through summer.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Five miles of Racecourse whitewater
This popular half‑day covers a five‑mile section of the Rio Grande, runnable all season. In spring the section hits class III–IV; as flows fall in summer it becomes a demanding, technical class III run.
Cold waves, big surf, then warm swims
In May and June expect cold water and big, interactive waves; later in summer the water warms and the trip opens up opportunities to swim and surf the raft on the river’s waves.
Half‑day timing and family‑friendly minimums
The outing is a half‑day experience—about 2.5 hours on the water and roughly a three‑hour round trip—and is offered for guests ages 6 and up.
What the day feels like
What the Half‑Day Feels Like
Put in and you’ll cover five lively miles of river under a guide’s direction. In high water the run feels like a surf session through powerful waves; in lower flows the course tightens into technical channels where the guide relies on paddler teamwork to maneuver the raft. As the season progresses the water temperature climbs, inviting swims and raft‑surfing.
THE RIDE
Five miles of Racecourse whitewater
This popular half‑day covers a five‑mile section of the Rio Grande, runnable all season. In spring the section hits class III–IV; as flows fall in summer it becomes a demanding, technical class III run.
THE WATER
Cold waves, big surf, then warm swims
In May and June expect cold water and big, interactive waves; later in summer the water warms and the trip opens up opportunities to swim and surf the raft on the river’s waves.
THE PRACTICALS
Half‑day timing and family‑friendly minimums
The outing is a half‑day experience—about 2.5 hours on the water and roughly a three‑hour round trip—and is offered for guests ages 6 and up.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
On‑water time is approximately 2.5 hours with about a three‑hour round trip door‑to‑door. The Racecourse is runnable all season; for the highest water visit in late May and early June.
No flip‑flops or sandals. Wear sturdy footwear (old tennis shoes are recommended); river shoes are available to rent. Rafts do not have storage—leave valuables in your vehicle or lodging.
Meet at County Line River Access, 2410 NM‑68, Dixon, NM. Sign the digital waiver as soon as possible—look for an email titled “DUE NOW ~ Waiver Link ~ Sign TODAY.”
This Kokopelli Racecourse half‑day run is operated by Durango Rivertrippers; contact the operator for questions and specific trip logistics.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip on the water?
On‑water time is listed at about 2.5 hours, and the full round trip is roughly three hours.
What ages can participate?
The trip is available to guests ages 6 and up.
When is the river at its highest for big waves?
The highest water typically comes in late May and early June; expect class IV conditions in spring and stronger waves then.
What should I wear on the trip?
No flip‑flops or sandals. Sturdy footwear such as old tennis shoes is recommended; river shoes are available to rent.
Can I bring personal items on the raft?
No. The operator’s rafts do not have storage; leave personal items in your hotel room or vehicle.
Do I need to sign anything before the trip?
Yes. Sign the digital waiver as soon as possible—look for an email titled “DUE NOW ~ Waiver Link ~ Sign TODAY.”