Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float

A Gentle Adventure on the Rio Grande Near Taos

If you’re after a laid-back yet memorable way to experience New Mexico’s high desert scenery, the Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float offers just that. Starting at a modest $88 per person, this approximately three-hour journey takes you on a peaceful float along the Rio Grande, showcasing some of the area’s most striking rock formations and high desert landscapes. Your guides, like Brian or Billy, have earned glowing reviews for their knowledge and personable approach, making the trip both fun and educational.

What we really love about this tour is its accessibility. It’s suitable for beginners and families with older children, thanks to the gentle Class II rapids and plenty of calm stretches perfect for relaxing or swimming. The scenic views of towering basalt cliffs and canyon walls make this a visual feast that doesn’t demand physical prowess—just a sense of curiosity and a desire to enjoy nature at a leisurely pace.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour is not a white-water adrenaline rush. If you’re looking for high-intensity rapids, this might not be the experience for you. It’s more about the serenity of floating, the beauty of the landscape, and the educational tidbits from guides who clearly love sharing their knowledge. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine outdoor adventure with a laid-back, scenic journey.

This float is especially well-suited for small groups, families, or solo travelers who enjoy easygoing activities. If you’re craving a relaxing, informative, and visually stunning half-day outing in the Taos area, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Accessible for all skill levels with calm waters and mild rapids
• Stunning scenery of canyon walls and high desert ecosystems
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Swim stops offer refreshing breaks on hot days
• Shared activity that fosters a friendly, communal atmosphere
• Flexible cancellation with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Exploring the Rio Grande with Far Flung Adventures

The Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a gentle introduction to river rafting, set amidst some of Northern New Mexico’s most picturesque scenery. We loved the way the guides, such as Brian and Billy, combine friendliness with deep knowledge, making even beginners feel comfortable and informed. Their knack for steering the raft smoothly through Class II rapids and pointing out interesting sights along the way keeps the atmosphere light and engaging.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The tour begins at the Far Flung Riverside in Embudo, just a short drive from Taos. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned transport that takes you to the starting point on the Rio Grande. The journey itself is part of the fun: the ride offers a preview of the scenic landscape awaiting you.

Once on the water, your guide will lead you through the oxbows of the Orilla Verde National Recreation Area. The river’s gentle flow allows you to float past towering basalt cliffs and rocky canyon walls, offering plenty of opportunities for photos. Throughout the float, you’ll encounter several Class II rapids, which are easy enough for beginners but add a bit of excitement to the journey.

One of the tour’s highlights is the village of Pilar, a quiet spot where your guide might point out the river’s impact on local life. The calm stretches between rapids are perfect for swimming or relaxing in the water, and on hot days, many guests enjoy a cool dip to beat the heat.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

Beyond the scenery, what truly sets this float apart is the expertise of the guides. Multiple reviews praise guides like Nick, Sydney, and Megan for their friendly, informative, and patient approach. One reviewer even described Megan as “thorough, helpful, and very patient,” which hints at the level of personalized attention you can expect.

Guests consistently mention the stunning views of the canyon walls and high desert landscape, with some describing the scenery as “awesome” and “beautiful.” The float’s slow pace means you can really take in the surroundings, whether it’s the lush riverside habitats or the impressive basalt formations.

The Comfort and Convenience

Transportation to and from the river is air-conditioned and smooth, which adds to the overall comfort of the experience. The tour is shared with other guests, fostering a friendly environment, and the group sizes are manageable, typically under 100 participants. This setup allows for a more personal experience without feeling crowded.

The Value

At $88, the tour is priced competitively for a half-day guided adventure in such a scenic setting. Considering the professional guides, the scenic beauty, and the swimming opportunities, many reviewers feel they receive excellent value. Plus, the free cancellation policy provides peace of mind, especially if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Potential Drawbacks

While most guests rave about this float, some mention the short duration—about three hours—which might leave those craving a longer adventure wanting more. Also, since it’s a shared activity, you’ll be sharing vehicles and rafts, which might not appeal if you prefer private tours. Finally, participants should have a moderate fitness level, as standing and some paddling may be involved, even if minimal.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This float is perfect for families with older children, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor activity. If scenery and gentle water are your priorities, you’ll find this trip charming. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to learn more about the local environment from passionate guides.

It’s less suited for thrill-seekers or those craving intense rapids. But if your goal is a peaceful, picturesque float with a touch of adventure, you’ll be well pleased.

The Sum Up

The Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float offers a relaxing, scenic, and educational experience along the Rio Grande, with friendly guides and stunning canyon vistas. Its easy paddling and swimming stops make it accessible for all ages and abilities, while the knowledgeable guides turn a simple float into a memorable journey into the high desert landscape.

For those seeking a laid-back outdoor activity that combines beautiful scenery with gentle adventure, this tour is a smart pick. It provides great value—especially if you appreciate good guiding, peaceful float trips, and seeing the natural beauty of the Rio Grande up close. If you’re visiting Taos and want a low-stress way to enjoy the outdoors, this float should be on your list.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for all experience levels. The water is calm most of the time, with only mild Class II rapids, making it perfect for those new to rafting.

How long does the float last?
The entire experience takes about three hours, including transportation, safety briefing, the float itself, and some time for swimming or relaxing.

What should I bring?
Since the tour includes swimming stops and is outdoors, bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water shoes if you have them. A towel and dry clothes for after are also recommended.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from the river is part of the experience. It is air-conditioned and comfortable, making the journey pleasant.

Can I cancel if weather turns bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a shared activity?
Yes, guests share vehicles and rafts with others, fostering a friendly and social atmosphere.

Embark on this float for a peaceful, scenic adventure that captures the essence of New Mexico’s high desert landscape, guided by friendly experts who love sharing their local knowledge.