For each state in the US, there are always some kind of “hidden secrets” that most people don’t know about. New Mexico is no different. Now, if you are a native to New Mexico, you may know more than the average person, however, chances are, there are still some things you’ve never heard of. Today, we are going to unmask some of the top hidden secrets of New Mexico. So, with that, read on and become an honorary New Mexico Local.

Gilman Tunnels.

First up is the Gilman Tunnels. Located in the Jemez Mountains of New Mexico, these tunnels are tucked away just above where the Guadalupe River flows. Named after William H. Gilman, the Gilman Tunnels were built in the 1920’s for the Santa Fe North Western Railroad to transport lumber and coal *through* the Guadalupe Box Canyon, rather than over it. And while these tunnels are hidden away from most eyes, the beautiful red-hue of the surrounding rocks never made it past the trained eyes of certain movie location scouts for movies such as “3:10 to Yuma” and “The Scorch Trials.”

Earthships!

One of the most trending things online right now for younger couples is having self-sustaining homes. And, while it is not well know, New Mexico is actually one of the paces where Earthships first started. When you first see these amazing self-sustaining homes, they look like something out of a science fiction movie. With solar power, wind power, recycled water, car batteries and other such “off-grid” technology, most visitors find themselves envious of these otherworldly homes. In fact, because there are so many people asking about the purpose of the homes and how the owners built them, there is even a “training academy that teaches interested visitors how to build their very own earthship.

El Malpais National Monument!

Next on our list is the Junction Cave. While not as popular as some of the other monuments of the West, the Junction Cave is not without its charm. Located under the El Malpais National Monument, this cave is actually perfect for people with little to no caving experience. Although the route is moderately difficult, with spaces you’ll need to hunch over in and boulders you’ll need to clamber around, it’s easy enough for a quick hike. When you are traversing this long tunnel, you’ll be able to see the amazing and dramatic scenery.

Rivers & Brews on the Chama!

Every year, Albuquerque based brewing company Bosque Brewing Company, joins New Mexico River Adventures for its annual Rivers and Brews trip down the Rio Chama. While not many people know about this trip, with the crafty people at Bosque and the spectacular rapids of the Rio Chama, the adventure of a lifetime is waiting just around the bend.

Conclusion:

While these are just a few of the hidden secrets of New Mexico, there are plenty more we did not list. Don’t take our word for it though! Go out and experience this yourself! Go and find your own secrets of New Mexico!

Every spring and summer, thousands of people flock to the popular rivers around the world to see the beauty, experience adventure and make memories with loved ones. And while most rivers have many commonalities like water, rapids and fun, they are all, each of them, unique. This year is special in that a lot of the rivers have more flow than usual, making them perfect for your  fun experience. That said, we are going to show you a list of rivers which we think is perfect for your 2019 river rafting Bucket list. With that, read on and enjoy!

Rivers and Brews on the Rio Chama!

Of course, when creating a bucket list, you have to include a bucket of beer. That’s why this trip is the perfect start to any bucket list. Not only do you experience the wonders of the Rio Chama, you get to experience it with an ice cold beer in hand. Now, while you won’t actually be going down the river with a mug of beer in your hand, your trip will be taking a small detour off the rapids to have a quick swig before getting back on the raft. Man, what an experience!

The Racecource!

The Racecourse is possibly one of the best trips you could ever go on. If you are only ever to experience a single trip in your whole life, this is the one you should choose. Not only is it perfect for first time rafters, because the water levels are especially high this 2019 rafting season, it has absolutely perfect conditions for all whitewater enthusiasts. So, this should most definitely be put in the first or second position on your 2019 river rafting bucket list.

Rio Chama 3 Day Trip!

If you’re not much of a drinker, but you are intrigued by the Rio Chama, you might want to dive headfirst into one of the Rio Chama’s signature 3 day trips. While usually only the more experienced take on this venture, it is an action-packed adventure with stunning sites of the colorful sandstone and limestone canyon walls that anyone can go on. You’ll easily be able to strike a few “first’s” off your bucket list with this trip. Trust us, it’s a must for any bucket list.

24 Hours on the Rio Grande!

If you aren’t ready to commit to 3 days on the whitewater rapids, don’t worry. This last bucket list river rafting trip is perfect for those who want to live on the edge, but not too much. With this 24 hours on the Rio Grande trip, you’ll get to experience the rapids in the daytime, an amazing night with campfire stories and a morning with a hearty breakfast and another day filled with more of the river. While it is not as immersive as the 3-day Chama adventure, it still has all the makings of a wondrous river rafting bucket list item!

Conclusion:

In conclusion, it’s always good to note that no matter how big, or small, your budget is, you should always make sure to have enough for experiences as opposed to things. Because, while objects, trinkets and things will pass away and fade, experiences will stay in your memories forever.

When you think of river rafting, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Adrenaline junkies, drowning, boring guides, or even the fact that every river is the same. These are just some of the “myths” we intend to cover in this article. Because while most people are aware of the myths surrounding river rafting, they somehow miss the truth, which, we all know is super important in order to properly enjoy your new river adventure. So, with that, read on and allow us to bring to light these myths.

Myth 1: It’s only for “Adventurers” or “adrenaline junkies.”

I’m sure you’ve seen those crazy videos, or pictures, of people sliding off waterfalls into the water below, or other crazy stunts. But, here’s the thing; not all river rafters are as crazy as the people in the videos you see. Some rafters like to take things slow and easy. Which is why there are trips like the “Gourmet Wine Pairing” trip, which is slow and steady, like sipping a glass of full-bodied red wine.

Myth 2: You need to be a good swimmer.

Of course, knowing how to swim is a plus when you are going down the rapids of the Rio Grande. However, the truth is, you don’t need to know how to swim as much as you need to know how to listen to your guides. The reason we say this is because, at the beginning of each trip, your guide will give you instructions on what you are to do in the event that you happen to fall out of the raft.

Myth 3: You might drown.

Truth be told, we’ve never had anyone drown on any of our trips, likewise, the cases of people drowning on river rafting adventures are rare. So, there is no need to worry. But, similarly to the previous myth, you will need to listen to your guides instructions, otherwise, there might be a problem. And as long as you don’t mess with your Personal Flotation Device (PFD), or unbuckle it during the trip, you’ll float just fine and be back in the boat in no time.

Myth 4: How much fun you have depends on your guide.

First off, this is not true at all, only if you’re a party pooper. Obviously some guides are more “fun” than others, but, you’re missing the whole point of the trip itself. Don’t focus so much on what your guide does or says to make your experience fun. Focus on the trip itself. Focus on the journey. Before you know it, you’ll be so focused on how much fun you have, you won’t even realize why. So, “get out of your head and into the raft!”

Myth 5: All rivers are the same.

You know the term “if you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all?” Well, that term doesn’t apply here…at all. Yes, all rivers have many things in common, like water, rocks and fish. But, no two rivers are the same, because every river has different twists, turns, drops and Classes. So, don’t fall prey to a cliche. Get out there and experience it for yourself. You’ll enjoy it more than you thought!

Do you remember the last time you went camping, hiking, or mountain biking? Remember getting that feeling of excitement thinking “oh wow, this is super fun, I should get outdoors more often?” It’s true. Getting out of the office, out of the house, and back outdoors, out in nature, is addicting. It’s like a drug, but the good kind.

Well, whitewater rafting is the same. It’s addicting. the wild rapids, the unexpected twists and turns, the screams of excitement. It’s thrilling! So, today, we are going to try and answer the age old question, “why is whitewater rafting so fun?” You ready for another adventure? Read on!

It’s a Unique Experience.

In life, and all around the world, there are thousands of unique opportunities to have fun. Traveling to another country, cliff diving, eating foreign cuisine, and many others. For whitewater rafting, it is the same. While it is not as popular as going to the beach or visiting a theme park, it still has a cult following, making it one of the most unique experiences you could try.

Spending Quality Time with Loved Ones.

We all know how busy life can get. And because of this, it’s always hard to find time to spend with your loved ones. However, in the case of whitewater rafting, being neatly packed in a rubber raft like sardines helps to fix that issue. Not only do you get to spend quality time with your loved ones, you also get to experience bonding like never before. You’ll all remember these trips for years to come.

It’s a Learning Experience.

No matter what part of the adventure you’re on, there is always something you can learn from it.  The people, the animals, the plants, the scenery and even the river itself. There are even legends, tales and the famed “ghost stories” to learn as well. So, as long as you have a knowledgable guide riding with you down the rapids, you’ll be able to experience the river adventure to it’s full potential. Just make sure not to close your eyes, or else you might just miss something amazing!

The Adventure!

If you think about it, almost every part of whitewater river rafting is an adventure. But, here’s the thing that most people don’t realize. It’s not always about what you see, but what you feel that makes the adventure, well, an “adventure.” Adrenaline pumping through your veins as you crash through the rapids. The spray of the river getting in your face. The sudden feeling you get when your stomach drops as you go over a waterfall(even a small one.) No matter what part of the river you are on, who you’re with or what you see, every part is an adventure.

Sexy Guides.

Not all guides look like they’re from the 1840’s about to go panning for gold alright? As silly as it sounds, it’s true. Most river rafting guides work tirelessly in the off-season making sure they are strong enough to handle the raging rapids. And with all of that hard work, their physique becomes something that nearly everyone will notice. So, whenever you’re on an adventure with one, make sure to thank them for all their hard work and dedication to their job! They will all appreciate it!

Most people know how much fun White water rafting can be, but, truth be told, that’s not the only great thing about it. There are actually studies on river rafting, and on activities in the outdoors, which show that not only are these things fun, there are thousands of health benefits as well. Today, we want to share with you, what we think, are the top 5 of those health benefits. Enjoy!

The thrill of adventure!(a.k.a adrenaline rush)

Of course, we have to start with the most obvious health benefit. Which is providing you with an adrenaline rush. Going through each turn of the river and battling through every rapid boosts your adrenaline. And this is needed to enjoy a more healthy, long life. Which is why, the thrill of the adventure, or adrenaline rush, is the first health benefit on our list.

The Outdoors & Fresh Air = Reduced Stress.

When people are getting tired of their jobs or just tired in general, one way they can reduce their stress is by going outdoors. Now, studies show that being outdoors in fresh air, and not cooped up in your office, is far more beneficial to your mental health and stress levels than any indoor activities. Even the silence that nature brings is relaxing and helps you to alleviate your stress.

Great for Cardio & Strengthening Muscles.

Now, most people know how physically challenging white water river rafting can be, but, it’s so much more than that. In fact, for river rafting, you are mostly using your upper body to paddle through the water, which tones your arms, back, shoulders and even strengthens your ability to think. Likewise, with regards to cardio, as a strenuous activity which requires endurance, rafters need to sustain long periods of paddling. Meaning, rafters much be at their best to ensure they can successfully accomplish the challenge.

Great for Teamwork Building & Family Bonding.

Nearly every company in the world requires their employees to work as a team. That said, going on a wild river adventure with your teammates is perfect for building deeper and more fulfilling relationships with them. In regards to family bonding, it gives you a chance to learn more about their strengths and weaknesses, which helps each member of the family to bond. And without modern-day distractions like smartphones or other technology, families are able to have much more time to bond with each other while overcoming the rapids.

Confidence & Self-Esteem Booster.

Last on our list is something that will complete your white water river rafting adventure and leave you feeling accomplished, with confidence you never knew. Not only that, depending on how difficult the river is, you may even find that the rapids may seem intimidating at first, but, once you’ve finished, you’ll gain a sense of accomplishment that will boost your self-esteem to the next level.

Conclusion:

All in all, no matter how you look at it, getting out of the office, out of the house, and out into nature is one of the best ways to increase your health. But, of course, as bias as we are about it, we believe that riding the rapids of the Rio Grande is the best way to add years to your life. Come join us this season!

New Mexico is the 5^th largest state in the United States, and its diverse geography and climate mean that it’s a great place to tick some items off your bucket list. Rose coloured deserts, broken mesas, and snow-capped peaks which brush against the sky mean it’s a great place for adventure. The foothills off the Rocky Mountains start here, meaning that it’s possible to ski and rock climb. Although there’s not a lot of surface water in New Mexico, it’s home to the 4^th longest river, the Rio Grande, perfect for kayaking and rafting. So, let’s look at the top 7 activities to strike off your bucket list in the Land of Enchantment.

1. Become one with nature by horseback riding

The perfect family activity – horseback riding is easy, relaxing, and the kids will love it. There are a number of beautiful trails across the state perfect for taking horses, including Angel Fire, the heart of the Red River, the Enchanted Circle, and Carson National Forest.

Riding in Carson National Forest will give you a great opportunity to see the wildlife that calls New Mexico home, including coyotes, bobcats, and bighorn sheep.

Not only will you have the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes and nature of the state, but you’ll also be able to follow in the footsteps of the famous Wild West gold-panners from days gone by. Follow the Elliot Barker trail, and who knows? You may even find some riches of your own.

2. Get the adrenaline flowing while off-roading in a 4 x 4

A lot of Mexico will seem like it’s off limits, but it doesn’t have to be, especially when you’ve got something like a Steyr Puch 4 x 4 or 6 x 6 off-roader to conquer any terrain you can throw at it!

Take a Wild West safari, where you’ll see ancient petroglyphs, Cowboy and Indian ruins, wild horses, and beautiful views of the desert from the most inaccessible locations. The thrill of bombing through the desert in such an unusual vehicle is bound to be an unforgettable experience and something that you’ll be delighted to tick off your bucket list.

3. Get wet by rafting on the Rio Grande

The Rio Grande is one of the most important rivers in the Southern United States and Northern Mexico. As well as being part of the natural border between the States and Mexico, the river is extremely important for agricultural.

However, most importantly, it provides unbeatable white-water rafting! There’s a lot of wildlife and birdlife you can see from the river, but it’s best that you concentrate on the swells and white water splashing over you first. Thanks to the guide at the back of the boat, you’ll be rafting in total safety, and having a lot of fun.

There are even 24 overnight camping rafting trips, where you’ll be able to experience even more of the Rio Grande whilst enjoying a riverside camp with a delicious meal.

4. Challenge yourself with rock climbing at the Rio Grande Gorge

 One day you can be rafting on the Rio Grande, the next day looking down at today’s rafters from a lofty position from the sheer rock faces of the Rio Grande Gorge.

The canyon consists of many layers of volcanic basalt rock, perfect for getting out your harnesses and climbing shoes and attempting to scale the sides. Experience rock climbing in the heart of the Rio Grande and you’ll have incredible views for miles across the New Mexico desert as the rushing waters cut through the landscape below.

Routes will depend on your experience and fitness level, and you have to use footwork more than upper body strength. No worries though, on a rock-climbing trip there’ll always be an expert guide to help you make this bucket list experience memorable and fun.

5. Catch your dinner with a spot of fly-fishing

There are a number of rivers, lakes, and streams that are home to excellent fly-fishing experiences throughout the state, meaning that you will be able to catch fish such as trout, yellow perch, and bike which will all make for a delicious meal, should you want to take something back to the campfire or your hostel and feel the satisfaction of eating something caught by your own hand!

The best times to try your hand at fly fishing are in June, even though water and weather conditions can never be truly accurately predicted. The best thing about fly-fishing is you don’t even need a guide – you just need a car, some equipment, and a desire to come home with a bag full of fish!

6. Improve your balance with stand-up paddleboarding.

The river, streams, and especially lakes aren’t just fully stocked with fish and great for fishing – they’re also great for trying new sports. Hailing from Hawaii, and gaining popular along the United States’ coast, stand-up paddleboarding is also becoming popular on the waterways of New Mexico. It’s a great way to not only have a great laugh, but to improve your balance, fitness, and coordination.

As it’s quite new to the state, there aren’t loads of place you can do it, but New Mexico River Adventures offers a guided paddleboat session, complete with all the gear. So, if it’s a one-time bucket list thing that you won’t repeat, you haven’t wasted your money on expensive equipment!

7. Tackle the white-water solo in a kayak.

 Rafting too easy for you? You feel that you don’t need a guide and you can tackle the white waters by yourself? Then put your money where your mouth is and give kayaking on the Rio Grande, Rio Chama, or even a more chilled out trip on a calm lake a go!

This exhilarating way to experience New Mexico’s rivers means that you’ll be totally in control of your own craft, and inflatable kayaks are a whole lot of fun. If you want a tandem craft so you can share the experience with a friend or a loved one, that’s an option too.

We hope that this list has given you a better idea of what you can do in New Mexico to get some ticks on your bucket list! Check out more destination guides and accommodation reviews over at Trip101.

Out of all the rivers in the United States, the Rio Grande is one of the longest and most well-known of them all. And while most people now its name, where it runs and even the English Translation of it(it’s Big River), there are actually quite a few things they don’t know. So, today, in an effort to educate and help you gain more brownie points with your river rafting buddies, we will be sharing with you the top things you never knew about the Rio Grande! So, keep reading and don’t forget to share!

“Wait, it’s not called Rio Grande?”

Well, technically it’s the Rio Grande here in the United States, but just across the border in Mexico, it’s called the Rio Bravo. And Rio Bravo literally means “the furious river.” Sounds about right, since some of the Rio Grande stretch has a lot Class IV and even Class V rapids. So, if you’re over the border and want to do a bit of whitewater river rafting, just ask “donde esta el rio bravo?.” Sorry, that’s it for my Spanish lesson.

“How many fish species live in the Rio Grande?”

Actually, the Rio Grande is one of the most important regions for freshwater biodiversity. Over 120 different species of fish are supported. In fact, almost 70 of those species are found nowhere else in the world. Likewise there are 3 specific areas that support bird species and even some mollusk. So, you can easily bring your binoculars and go bird watching while on the river.

“What type of food is grown from the Rio Grande’s?”

There are quite a lot of crops that are grown along the river. In the North part of New Mexico and Colorado, potatoes and alfalfa are grown. Likewise, West Texas specializes in pecans, peppers, onions and even cotton. So, there is a lot of diversity.

In the lower part of the Rio Grande, in the valley, citrus fruits, vegetables and more cotton are grown. But, the most interesting fact is that most cattle raising and agriculture are the leading industries all along the Rio Grande. That makes the Rio Grande one of the most important and vital rivers for the United States.

“Anything else not known about the Rio Grande?”

Well, as we said before, the Rio Grande is mostly used for domestic water supply and agricultural purposes. Even so, most of the water itself is drained from the river, with some parts being almost dry due to overuse and no recycling of water.

The good thing about this is that when the state of New Mexico opens the floodgates and lets loose the rivers in the summer months, it makes for amazing whitewater rapids. Of course, here at NMRA, we love this and so should you! Because the more that we share with the world what an amazing river this is, the more apt our government will be to protect it.

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Forest Fenn Treasure and how learning to river raft will help you in your search

In this world, there are many selfless people. Sometimes, we are touched by the good deeds that they do, and other times, we are able to interact with them. For the most part, these deeds go unseen and gone without any recognition. For an 80+ year old Forrest Fenn, however, his one good deed has been seen by, and criticized by, millions of people. Today, we will be taking a look at his deed, dubbed the “Forrest Fen Treasure” and likewise how learning to river raft will help you in your search. Ready? Set! Go!

When, why and for whom?

In 1988, Forrest Fenn, a self-taught millionaire archaeologist native to Santa Fe, New Mexico, was diagnosed with cancer. At the time, Forrest filled a small chest with over 40 pounds of emeralds, rubies, gold coins and diamonds, and decided to take it to the mountains to die. But, remarkably, he completely beat cancer and ended up leaving the chest in a walk-in vault in his home.

However, in 2010, with the end of the Great Recession, he decided to hide it and launch the hunt, telling ABC News “Lots of people were losing their jobs, despair was written all over the headlines, and I just wanted to give some people hope.” So, somewhere in the Rockies, over an expanse of 1,000 miles between the Canada border and Santa Fe, New Mexico, Forrest left a treasure he says is worth millions.

Is it even worth trying to find this treasure?

Yes. It is absolutely worth finding. In fact, he gave us many clues to do so. In the image to the left, you’ll see the original poem Forrest created for the estimated 350,000 to 400,000 people who have gone searching for his treasure.

Although many people doubt that this treasure even exists, there are a couple witnesses who can attest to seeing the actual booty before Forrest hid it. But, he said that hiding his treasure in the first place was simply because he wanted to encourage families to enjoy the outdoors.

How can learning to river raft help me in my search?

While Forrest says that the treasure isn’t too close to water, most of the places you may need to search are far from any actual road. So, learning to river raft may be your only option if you are not wanting to go walking up mountain peaks and down into valleys.

You can easily have one of our guides teach you the ropes so you can get started on your quest. But, you might want to start now, as most people have had a few years head start. Regardless though, he told his fans to simply “Read the clues in my poem,” “study maps of the Rocky Mountains,” “try to marry the two,” and have fun, because “the search is supposed to be fun.”

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With summer fast approaching, the time to choose your 2019 river rafting trip is now. One thing to note is that the snowpack is looking outstanding and it’s sure to provide New Mexico with a spectacular 2019 rafting season.  Because of this, we have compiled a list of our top 5 NMRA trips for 2019.  So, with that, read on to find your ideal summer vacation rafting trip. Enjoy!

1. Rivers and Brews with Bosque Brewery.

To start off, we obviously have to go with our most popular trip. The Bosque Brewery trip. Not only is this an NMRA team favorite, it’s a favorite of most of our guests. When things are getting hot and sweaty down on the Rio Grande, it’s always nice to have an innovative and delicious ice cold Bosque Brewery beer ready to quench your thirst. You get the best of both worlds, the river and beer. What more could you ask for?

2. The Taos Box.

With the whitewater looking to be the most advanced we’ve seen for a while, the Taos Box is a perfect NMRA summer vacation if you are an experience whitewater river rafter. With the wind blowing through your hair and the spray of the river spitting you in the face, you be having so much fun that you’ll forget how beautiful the scenery is on your sides. Of course, it’s absolutely fine to focus on the beauty of the river. Just don’t stare too deep, you might fall in.

3. Gourmet Wine Pairing 3 Day.

Chef Rocky Durham is one of our favorite chefs, and likewise, we love the Vivac Winery. If you are looking for a relaxing time going down the river with some much needed “watering” stops along the way, this is the perfect way to start your 2019 summer vacation. Not only will you be able to enjoy delicious gourmet food along the riverbank, you’ll also get to sip your wine too. So, this is the perfect adventure for those of you who love to drink your wine. Hooray!

4. Rio Chama Wellness.

With this trip, it’s time to get your yoga on. This trip allows you to get some much needed time off with your body. If you’ve ever had some health issues that just don’t seem to go away, climbing in a raft is the best thing for you. Not only will you be able to enjoy a nice calming adventure with the New Mexico rivers, you”ll also get a chance to get back to nature in the most healthy way. Namaste!

5. The Racecourse.

As the last one on our list, we wanted to highlight some important, and amazing, things about the Racecourse river adventure. With advanced whitewater coming to Taos Box, the whitewater that is going to be headed towards the Racecourse is going to be family friendly and perfect for a 24 hour adventure. So, you will definitely are going to want to add this to your summer adventure list.

Now that you know the Top 5 NMRA trips for 2019, you should start packing and getting things ready for an amazing 2019 summer adventure vacation.

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For those of you new to the whitewater river rafting scene, the Taos Box refers to a section of the Rio Grande River, which is located just to the west Taos New Mexico. And since a lot of you reading this are probably wondering what to expect from this part of the Rio Grande, we created this article for you. So, read on and learn about the ranking top things you didn’t know about “Taos Box.” Enjoy!

Where is “Taos Box” in the Rio Grande?

As we said before, “Taos Box” is a section of The Rio Grande. The Rio Grande itself comes from San Juan Mountains of southern Colorado and, after rising, it goes past Creede, Colorado, where it enters the San Luis Valley, an ancient lake-bed. After that, the Rio Grande turns south at Alamosa, Colorado and finally makes its way towards New Mexico.

Now, once it’s made it to the southern part of the San Luis Valley, which is about 10 miles north of the New Mexico State line, the Rio Grande begins to cut its famous Rio Grande Gorge. The section with the “Taos Box” is about 16 miles upstream from the end of the wilderness part of the Rio Grande Gorge.

How experienced must you be for the “Taos Box?”

As a river with Class IV rapids(V in high water), the “Taos Box” is hard for beginners. However, since it is 16 miles long, for experienced rafters, this makes for a super exciting one-day rafting trip. In fact, it is ranked as the most challenging whitewater rafting trip commercially available in New Mexico.

What “Taos Box” rapids are the hardest?

For rapids in general, what make them hard usually has to do with a mixture of verticalness, blockages or narrowing. The Rockgarden rapid is one of the hardest the “Taos Box” has to offer. The whole way through this rapid, it’s significantly more vertical, or steeper, than your average river gradient.

This means that water moves more quickly through this rapids, and develops more energy and speed because of it. However, the reason Rockgarden is known for being the hardest of “Taos Box” is because of the blockages, i.e. rocks, which, depending on the water level, will force the rafter to think quickly to miss being thrown out of the raft.

Are there areas of “Taos Box” which should be avoided?

Areas like “the Fishhook” and even “Soda Fountain,” are areas that can be run. However, once you come across Camel Rock, this should be avoided at all costs. Camel Rock has a sharp drop on the downstream side of it, and, if you end up underwater, it creates a dreadful hole. People like to call this hole “the Trench.” The Trench will literally fold your raft like a taco, will send you flying, or worse in some cases. That’s why, most experienced rafters tend to avoid the Trench by risking it all on the “Sharkfin Hold, which, although big, is not as sudden.

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