If you’re planning a trip to Pilar, New Mexico, you’ll find that it offers more than just scenic drives or quiet solitude. The area’s prime location along the Rio Grande makes it an ideal spot for outdoor adventure tours. We particularly love the half-day river float because it combines relaxing scenery with wildlife sightings—a perfect way to unwind without too much effort. Plus, visiting the village of Pilar at the end offers a glimpse of local life amidst stunning natural surroundings. Whether you’re after a gentle float, a whitewater rush, or a challenging full-day trip, Pilar’s diverse options will satisfy both casual explorers and thrill-seekers alike.
Quick Overview
Our list features three standout tours: a calm river float (Taos: Half-Day River Float Adventure), an exciting class III whitewater rafting (New Mexico: Rio Grande Race Course Rafting Trip), and a full-day, adrenaline-pumping class IV trip in the “Taos Box” (Taos/Santa Fe: Rio Grande Class IV “Taos Box” Rafting). Each offers a different flavor of adventure, suited for different tastes and fitness levels.
1. Taos: Half-Day River Float Adventure
At number one, the Taos: Half-Day River Float Adventure offers a relaxed way to experience the Rio Grande. This tour includes a 4-hour float along the calm oxbows of the Orilla Verde National Recreation Area, giving you plenty of time to take in the scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy scenic views and wildlife without the adrenaline rush of whitewater. The tour is especially good for families or anyone new to river activities, as it emphasizes floating, swimming, and paddling in tranquil waters.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to see majestic basalt cliffs and diverse ecosystems. The guides are knowledgeable about local flora and fauna, making it more than just a float—it’s an educational experience. The tour concludes in the charming village of Pilar, where you can stroll, grab a snack, or just soak in the relaxed vibe. With a solid 5 out of 5 rating, visitors say it’s a “peaceful, beautiful way to connect with nature,” making it a top pick for a half-day outing.
Bottom Line: It’s ideal for those wanting a mellow, scenic outing that combines wildlife viewing with stunning canyon views.
$86 per person
2. New Mexico: Rio Grande Race Course Rafting Trip
Stepping up the excitement, the Rio Grande Race Course Rafting Trip is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to experience whitewater adventure without a multi-day commitment. For about $88 per person, this 3-hour tour hits the class III Race Course—a fun, manageable level that’s great for beginners or those with some rafting experience.
This tour is designed to be lively and energetic, with guides leading you through rapids that will get your adrenaline going. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a quick, exhilarating trip that also includes some downtime on the riverbank, where guides share insights about the landscape and local environment. You can opt for a private trip if you prefer a more personalized experience.
Reviews don’t specify a rating, but the trip’s popularity suggests it’s a favorite for those wanting a fun, active outing. Many find it to be a well-balanced mix of excitement and education, perfect for a half-day adventure that leaves you with stories to tell.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a taste of whitewater fun without the full-day commitment or serious experience.
$88 per person
3. Taos/Santa Fe: Rio Grande Class IV “Taos Box” Rafting
For the serious adventurer, the Taos Box offers an 8-hour full-day rafting trip through the most challenging class IV rapids in New Mexico. This is widely regarded as one of the top wilderness trips in the U.S. and is ideal for experienced paddlers or those eager for a real adrenaline rush.
What makes the “Taos Box” so special is the combination of high-grade rapids and spectacular scenery. The current is powerful, and guides are highly skilled, making it safe yet demanding. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views and chances to see local wildlife, especially if you keep an eye out during calm stretches. The trip is physically demanding, so it’s best suited for fit travelers comfortable with getting wet and possibly flipping over.
Guests describe the experience as “exhilarating and memorable,” and many say it’s worth the price for the pure adventure. The tour is a full day, so it’s best for those who want an immersive, challenging experience and don’t mind an early start.
Bottom Line: Perfect for experienced rafters or those wanting the ultimate whitewater challenge with spectacular scenery.
$136 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your fitness level, how much adrenaline you crave, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a relaxing day and easy wildlife sightings, the Taos: Half-Day River Float Adventure is your best bet. For a quick burst of excitement, the Race Course Rafting offers a fun compromise. And if you’re after a full-day challenge and are comfortable with fast rapids, then the Taos Box will provide an unforgettable experience.
Consider your budget, available time, and whether you prefer a gentle float or white-knuckle rapids. Booking early is advised, especially for the full-day trips, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Pilar and the surrounding area offer a great range of river adventures that suit all kinds of travelers. For a peaceful, scenic experience, the half-day float is hard to beat. If you’re seeking whitewater excitement, the Race Course provides a quick thrill, while the “Taos Box” offers a full-day challenge for seasoned paddlers. No matter which you choose, these tours are a fantastic way to experience the beauty and power of New Mexico’s Rio Grande.
Our advice? Book well in advance, especially if you want to tackle the “Taos Box” — it’s a top-tier experience that tends to sell out. Whether you prefer floating peacefully or rushing through rapids, Pilar’s rivers are ready to deliver an authentic and memorable adventure.