A classic New Mexico canyon run through remote sandstone walls and cottonwood-lined banks. Flows are controlled by releases from El Vado Dam, making this a reliable multi-day rafting and kayaking destination.
Snapshot
Important information for this section of river
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Water Level
FAQ: What's the current water level for Rio Chama River?
100 CFS
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FAQ: What's the ideal range for this section of river?
200 – 1,500 CFS
Rapids
12 loggedCommunity-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
- AragonClass III
- MeanderClass II
- SleeperClass III
- UndercutClass II
- Eagle BendClass II
Boat Launches
3 loggedCommunity-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
- Chavez Canyon Boat Launch
- Cooper's El Vado Ranch4.8
- Big Eddy Boat Ramp4.7
Camps
42 loggedCommunity-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
- Whirlpool 3
- Last Chance
- Oak Point
- Whirlpool 2
- Two Step
Outfitters
3 loggedCommunity-contributed. Conditions change with flow. Scout everything.
- Santa Fe Rafting Co-Outfitters4.9Shuttle ServiceGear SupplyGuided Trips
20 Arroyo Cuyamungue Rd unit a, Santa Fe, NM 87506, USA
View on Google Maps - New Mexico River Adventures4.9Shuttle ServiceGuided Trips
2273 NM-68, Embudo, NM 87531, USA
View on Google Maps - Los Rios River Runners4.8Shuttle ServiceGuided TripsGear Supply
4003 NM-68, Ranchos De Taos, NM 87557, USA
View on Google Maps
Key Dates
Here are some key dates to remember for Rio Chama River.
Jul 16 – Sep 15
Permit Details
Beginning April 1, Canceled permits appear on Recreation.gov within 24 hours of their cancellation.
Common Questions
What paddlers most often want to know about Rio Chama River.
Do I need a permit to float the Rio Chama from El Vado to Abiquiu?
Yes — a permit is required for overnight trips on the Rio Chama between El Vado Lake and Abiquiu Reservoir. Permits are managed through Recreation.gov; cancelled permits become available within 24 hours of cancellation starting April 1.
What class of whitewater is the Rio Chama El Vado to Abiquiu section?
The Rio Chama through this section is Class II–III, with most of the difficulty concentrated in a few pool-drop rapids. The overall character is a scenic, moderate multi-day float through New Mexico's dramatic sandstone canyon country.
How are flows on the Rio Chama controlled from El Vado to Abiquiu?
Flows on this section are regulated by releases from El Vado Dam, making the Rio Chama more reliable than many free-flowing desert rivers. This dam control allows for a more predictable paddling season typically running spring through fall.
How long does a Rio Chama float from El Vado to Abiquiu take?
The El Vado to Abiquiu section covers approximately 33 miles and is typically run as a 3-day trip, though 2-day and 4-day itineraries are also common depending on group pace and camp selections.
When is the best time to run the Rio Chama in New Mexico?
The best season for the Rio Chama is typically April through June when dam releases are most consistent. Fall trips (September–October) are also popular for the cottonwood color and cooler temperatures, subject to release schedules.
Weather Forecast
What's the daily forecast at the put-in for Rio Chama River?