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    1. Local experiences/
    2. Pilar, NM/
    3. Water Activities/
    4. Rafting/
    5. Race Course Class III Rio Grande Rafting Trip

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    Best local prices
    Flexible cancellations
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    Race Course Class III Rio Grande Rafting Trip

    Navigate Class III Rio Grande rapids on a fun 3-hour rafting adventure

    From$80/ person

    Duration

    3 hrs

    Includes

    Rafting gear, snacks & drinks

    Highlights

    Paddle the Rio Grande's Race Course section on a 3-hour rafting trip rated Class III. No experience needed, making it ideal for all ages.

    1. Navigate fun Class III rapids for three hours
    2. Learn about local geology and wildlife from the guide
    3. Relax on the beach and enjoy provided snacks
    4. Use supplied boat, paddles, jacket and booties
    5. Ride a return shuttle back to the starting point

    What's Included

    1. Raft, paddles and safety gear
    2. Drinks and snacks
    3. Wetsuit booties and dry bags
    4. Return shuttle
    5. Interpretive river guide

    Things to know

    Bring a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, quick-drying clothes and secure sandals. Cotton clothing is not recommended.

    Cancellation policy

    Cancellations more than 14 days before the trip incur a 20% fee; 4–14 days incur a 50% fee; 3 days or less incur a 100% fee. A full refund is provided if the operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. No-shows are charged the full price.

    Meeting location

    Rio Grande Gorge Visitor's Center, 2873 NM-68, Taos, NM 87571

    Experience provided by Big River Raft Trips
    Experience provided by Big River Raft Trips

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #AA886Z

    Person

    $80

    All ages welcome

    0

    Child

    $80

    Ages 15 and under

    0

    Handpicked for you, so you can book with confidence

    • Best local prices

    • Flexible cancellation

    • Private and secure

    Each booking directly supports small businesses in our community.

    4.9 stars• 199 reviews

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    199 reviews•Google Maps

    With an outstanding reputation backed by nearly 200 reviews, this outfitter delivers consistently memorable Rio Grande rafting adventures. Guides like Billy, Mads, Ben, and Jesse earn repeated praise for their deep knowledge of the area's geology and history, expertly navigating rapids while keeping groups safe and entertained. Families especially appreciate how welcoming the crew is across all ages—one group ranged from 4 to 67 years old and everyone had a blast. The Race Course route gets particular love for balancing thrilling rapids with calmer stretches perfect for swimming. What sets this operation apart is the personal touch. Guides add fun extras like building raft slides and setting up riverside snack tables, tailoring experiences to the group's vibe. First-timers consistently mention feeling at ease, even complete beginners and nervous kids. One isolated communication hiccup appears in the reviews, but otherwise logistics run smoothly and the equipment is top-notch. If you're looking for skilled, engaging guides who go beyond just steering the raft, this crew delivers adventure with personality.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    In choosing an activity to enjoy with the family, we wanted something that was fun and exciting, and this did the job. We didn’t want to just have a calm river float, but we didn’t want anything dangerous. Billy made sure we had a really fun, safe time, including my 70-year old dad. What differentiated our experience versus other options in Santa Fe is Billy’s 36 years of experience and knowledge of the area. He was not just a raft guide, but also a tour guide- sharing insights about the history of the area. If you’re trying to decide which company to go with- don’t choose the big company with the 22 year old guide whose just started rafting and knows nothing about the history of the gorge…go with Big River Rafting and Billy. You won’t be disappointed.

    Photo of Ryan DeBoer

    Ryan DeBoer

    May 19, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    In choosing an activity to enjoy with the family, we wanted something that was fun and exciting, and this did the job. We didn’t want to just have a calm river float, but we didn’t want anything dangerous. Billy made sure we had a really fun, safe time, including my 70-year old dad. What differentiated our experience versus other options in Santa Fe is Billy’s 36 years of experience and knowledge of the area. He was not just a raft guide, but also a tour guide- sharing insights about the history of the area. If you’re trying to decide which company to go with- don’t choose the big company with the 22 year old guide whose just started rafting and knows nothing about the history of the gorge…go with Big River Rafting and Billy. You won’t be disappointed.

    Photo of Ryan DeBoer

    Ryan DeBoer

    May 19, 2025