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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Pilar…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Rafting
    5. /Race Course Whitewater Rafting Guided Tour in Pilar
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    Race Course Whitewater Rafting Guided Tour in Pilar

    Run class III rapids on Big River Rafts’ most popular 3-hour trip

    4.9 stars• 235 reviews
    From$93/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    3 hours

    Includes

    Rafting gear, guide, snacks

    Highlights

    Raft the Race Course on the Rio Grande with a guide on a medium-difficulty (class III) run designed for fun without prior experience. You’ll take time to gear up, learn about the river, and stop on the beach for snacks.

    • Raft class III whitewater rated medium difficulty on the International Rating Scale
    • Learn about the river and surroundings with an interpretive river guide
    • Relax with beach stops and snacks along the way
    • Ride a return shuttle back after your trip
    • Join an all-ages trip with no experience required

    What's Included

    • Rafting equipment
    • Boat
    • Life jacket
    • Paddle
    • Wetsuit booties
    • Dry bags
    • Drinks
    • Snacks
    • Return shuttle
    • Interpretive river guide

    Things to know

    Sunglass retention devices are available for an extra $8. Meet at the Rio Grande Gorge Visitor's Center parking lot between mile markers 28 and 29 on Highway 68, and arrive 15 minutes early.

    Cancellation Policy

    For cancellations more than 14 days out there is a 20% fee, for 4-14 days ahead there is a 50% fee and a 100% fee for 3 days or less. Full refund or credit if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows charged full price.

    FAQs

    No. No experience is necessary for this class III (medium difficulty) trip.

    Bring a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Wear quick-drying clothes (synthetics work best); wear a bathing suit on hot days and add a sweater or light jacket on cool days. Choose soft-sole shoes or sandals with heel straps. Cotton is not recommended.

    Arrive 15 minutes early.

    Meeting details

    We meet you across the street at the **Rio Grande Gorge Visitor's Center** parking lot located **between mile markers 28 & 29 on highway 68**.

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

    Related locations

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

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Reference #AA886Z

    Person

    $93.46

    All ages welcome

    0

    Child

    $93.46

    Ages 15 and under

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

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      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    235 reviews•Google Maps
    207
    3
    0
    0
    5

    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 4
    5/5

    We had a great experience with Ben as our guide on the river on June 26th - three CO gals on a road trip together. He was awesome at providing detailed information about the plant life, animals, local history of the area, and gave us a great suggestion on a local New Mexico restaurant and a hike in the area - awesome by the way!!! Worked out perfect with two of us having vertigo issues :). He made my first white water rafting experience a great one and I will be recommending him to my friends who plan on visiting NM! We will be coming back!

    Photo of Lisa Rodriguez

    Lisa Rodriguez

    July 7, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We had a great experience with Ben as our guide on the river on June 26th - three CO gals on a road trip together. He was awesome at providing detailed information about the plant life, animals, local history of the area, and gave us a great suggestion on a local New Mexico restaurant and a hike in the area - awesome by the way!!! Worked out perfect with two of us having vertigo issues :). He made my first white water rafting experience a great one and I will be recommending him to my friends who plan on visiting NM! We will be coming back!

    Photo of Lisa Rodriguez

    Lisa Rodriguez

    July 7, 2026

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