The froth and mayhem of paddling down whitewater rivers comes out in full action here, the challenge is extreme on the 16-mile stretch of the Rio Grande through what’s known as the Taos Box near Taos, New Mexico. It’s called the box because of the steep walls that make the canyon nearly impassable without a raft. Some don’t dare to raft on this portion at all.
This year’s snow-capped peaks, rushing water indicate that the Taos Box, could be open for longer than it has been in seven years, whitewater rafting guides say. It’s only been open for short periods over the past seven years because of weather conditions. This year it could be open for up to eight weeks straight during the high-water season from mid-April through May or June.
The trip is popular not only for its wild rafting trips but also for its raw scenic beauty. The Bureau of Land Management regulates trips through the Box. The water must flow at a certain level, and only so many people are allowed through each day.
In the Box, things get especially wild the last four miles, when the constantly evolving geology combines with a narrowing canyon to create a succession of wildly whipping Class 4 rapids. The stretch of river is remarkable enough that the Box and a neighboring section was the nation’s first wild and scenic river.
With news of a good season spreading, weekend bookings for the regular season which generally kicks off somewhere between mid-March and mid-April and runs through late September have been filling up fast. If you are interested then make your bookings now.
