If you’re looking for a laid-back way to enjoy New Mexico’s stunning high desert scenery, the Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float offers just that. This gentle trip down the Rio Grande is designed to be accessible for most, including beginners and those wanting a peaceful day on the water. With a focus on scenic views, calm paddling, and friendly guides, it’s a good choice if you want to unwind while soaking in some beautiful landscapes.
What’s especially appealing about this tour are two key things: the stunning canyon vistas and the informative, charismatic guides who make the experience memorable. Plus, it’s a great way to cool off on a hot day, with opportunities for swimming in the river’s calm stretches. On the flip side, some travelers might find the trip a little short if they’re craving more adventure or longer paddling time. Though, it’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic outing—families with older kids, couples, or solo travelers who want a gentle water experience with minimal effort.
One thing to keep in mind: this is a shared activity with a maximum of 100 travelers, which means some group sharing is involved. Also, it’s best suited for anyone with a moderate physical fitness level who’s comfortable sitting in a boat and enjoying light paddling. If you’re after thrill-seeking rapids, this probably isn’t the trip for you, but if peaceful landscapes and friendly guides appeal, you’ll likely enjoy it.
Key Points
- Gentle, beginner-friendly float suitable for all experience levels.
- Scenic views of canyon walls, high desert landscapes, and lush riverside habitats.
- Opportunities for swimming in calm river sections.
- Expert guides enhance the experience with their knowledge and friendly attitude.
- Perfect for relaxing outings and small groups, including families with older children.
- Good value at $88 per person for a 3-hour adventure, with many reviews highlighting the quality of guides and scenery.
Planning more time in Taos? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Closer Look at the Experience
The trip begins at the Far Flung Riverside in Embudo, just a short drive from Taos. From there, you’ll hop into a shared vehicle that transports you to the river’s edge, setting the tone for a hassle-free outing. The tour lasts about three hours, which is ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The moderate price point of $88 per person reflects the inclusive nature of the experience—guides, transportation, and the float itself are all covered.
What the Tour Looks Like
Once on the river, you’ll float along the oxbows of the Rio Grande, threading through a landscape marked by towering basalt cliffs and high desert flora. The open canyon setting offers sweeping views that change with each bend—rock formations, lush vegetation, and the distant hills make for a picture-perfect backdrop.
The calm stretches of water allow for moments of relaxation and, in some cases, swimming stops. Several reviews mention how refreshing it is to dip into the river on a hot day, with one reviewer noting, “So much fun! Beautiful scenery and the staff are friendly and very safety oriented.” The guides keep the experience engaging but laid-back, making it a good trip even for those who aren’t used to water sports.
Rapids and Paddling
While the Class II rapids add some gentle excitement, they don’t require advanced paddling skills. In fact, many reviews mention how the guides handle all the paddling, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy the ride. One reviewer said, “Our guide Brian, was very informative and thankfully he did all the paddling. Even though it was a class 1/2 rapids, it was very easy for him to take us gracefully through.” This is great if you want to experience the river’s energy without the physical challenge of whitewater rafting.
Scenic Highlights
Expect to glide past rock cliffs, canyon walls, and lush riverbanks that are typical of the Orilla Verde National Recreation Area. The scenery isn’t just visually stunning—it also offers a sense of tranquility that many travelers find restorative. Multiple reviews highlight the awesome scenery, with comments like “Scenery was awesome” and “Very charismatic tour guide. Smooth, air-conditioned transportation to and from River head. We lucked out with amazing weather and very few people on the river.”
Guides and Group Size
The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. One reviewer said, “Nick was a great guide. Very informative & entertaining,” and another called out Megan for being “thorough, helpful, and very patient.” Their local insights and safety focus add a lot of value, especially if you’re new to river trips.
The group size typically ranges up to 100 participants, but the experience feels intimate thanks to the guided format. The shared transportation is smooth, and guides seem attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable.
Family and Group Dynamics
This tour works well for small groups and families with older kids. It’s not a strenuous activity, but it does involve sitting in a boat and some paddling. The relaxed pace and scenic setting make it suitable for most ages, but very young children might find it less engaging or too calm for their liking.
Pricing and Value
At $88 per person, this tour is competitively priced for a half-day outdoor experience in a beautiful setting. Considering guides, transportation, and the scenic float, it’s a solid value—especially when you factor in the opportunity to relax, swim, and take in the scenery without much effort. Many reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise and the quality of the experience, which justifies the cost.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who enjoys peaceful outdoor activities that combine nature and relaxation, this float is a winner. It’s particularly suitable if you’re traveling with older kids or prefer a less adrenaline-filled adventure. Nature lovers, casual paddlers, and those looking to disconnect for a few hours will find it quite satisfying.
It’s also a fantastic option if you want to see the scenic beauty of New Mexico from a different perspective—on the water rather than on land. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the river’s charm, this is a perfect quick escape from Taos.
The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge also elevate the trip, making it feel warm and personalized rather than just another tourist activity.
The Sum Up
This Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float offers a wonderfully laid-back way to experience the Rio Grande’s stunning scenery. It’s a tour that emphasizes comfort, scenic beauty, and good company, making it well suited for travelers who want a peaceful outdoor activity. The combination of calm water, dramatic canyon views, and friendly guides makes it one of those experiences you’ll remember long after the trip ends.
While it doesn’t deliver high-octane adventure, it compensates with its relaxed vibe and natural beauty. It’s perfect if you’re after a gentle, scenic float that provides a genuine taste of New Mexico’s high desert landscape. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family members who enjoy calm outdoor fun, this tour hits the right notes for a memorable, stress-free day on the river.
Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float
“Liz and I thoroughly enjoyed the rafting trip. Our guide Brian, was very informative and thankfully he did all the paddling. Even though it was a…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for all experience levels, including those new to rafting. The calm stretches and expert guides make it accessible and enjoyable.
What is the approximate duration of the tour?
The float lasts about 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s good for small groups and families with older kids, especially those comfortable sitting in a boat and paddling lightly. Very young children might find it too calm or uneventful.
Are there opportunities for swimming?
Yes, during calm stretches, you can take a refreshing swim, which many reviewers found to be one of the highlights.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a local, knowledgeable guide, professional safety measures, and transportation to and from the river.
What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable clothes suitable for getting wet, sunscreen, and possibly a hat. The guides are safety-oriented, and some mention the possibility of cooling off in the water.
Is the activity weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people typically participate?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, but the actual group size often feels intimate thanks to the guided setup.
If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic float with friendly guides and beautiful views, this outing near Taos is worth considering. It’s a gentle way to connect with nature and enjoy a relaxing day on the river.