Far Flung Adventures Scenic Half-Day Float

If you’re visiting Taos and looking for a peaceful way to experience New Mexico’s diverse landscape, a float down the Rio Grande with Far Flung Adventures might just be your ideal escape. While I haven’t personally floated these waters, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a relaxing, scenic journey that appeals to a wide range of travelers — from families to solo explorers seeking calm, natural beauty, and friendly guides.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the gentle class II rapids are suitable for all skill levels, meaning you don’t need prior experience or physical prowess to enjoy it. Second, the opportunity to see canyon walls, rock cliffs, and desert ecosystems up close is a rare treat that provides both visual delight and a sense of connection to the high desert terrain.

On the flip side, one consideration is that this is a shared activity lasting around three hours, so if you’re after a high-adrenaline adventure or a longer, more in-depth rafting experience, this may not satisfy that craving. It’s best suited for those who want a mellow, scenic outing with some light paddling and plenty of time for relaxation and photography.

If you’re in or around Taos and yearn for a gentle immersion into the landscape, this float is worth considering. It’s ideal for families with older kids, couples, or anyone wanting a peaceful outdoor experience that combines gentle adventure with stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Suitable for all experience levels due to the mild class II rapids
• Stunning canyon and desert scenery that changes with each bend in the river
• Relaxing pace with opportunities for swimming on hot days
• Professional guides and knowledgeable locals enhance the experience
• Convenient location just a short drive from Taos
• Affordable value at $88 per person for a memorable half-day trip

A Close Look at the Float Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at the Far Flung Riverside in Embudo, just a short drive from Taos. The exact location is 85 NM-570, Embudo, NM 87531, a spot that feels remote enough to set the tone for an authentic river adventure. The journey begins with a quick check-in process, after which you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that transports you to the river’s edge. The transportation itself is a nice touch, particularly on hot days or if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Once at the river, you’ll meet your guide — a local expert with a reputation for being informative, entertaining, and patient with all kinds of travelers. The group size is limited to a maximum of 100, but in practice, it’s usually smaller, fostering a friendly, personable atmosphere.

The actual float lasts about three hours, during which you’ll glide between canyon walls, passing through diverse high desert landscapes. The scenery is a major highlight, with cliff faces, rock formations, and the surrounding desert ecosystems providing plenty of photo opportunities.

The Journey: Slow, Scenic, and Lightly Paddled

The trip is categorized as a gentle float, with mild class II rapids that are easy to navigate, even for complete beginners. According to reviews, guides often do all the paddling, making it a relaxing experience rather than a workout. As one reviewer noted, “even though it was class 1/2 rapids, it was very easy for him to take us gracefully through the ‘rapids’.”

There’s a good chance to cool off during the trip with refreshing swimming stops, especially on warmer days. These pauses allow travelers to stretch, swim, and soak in the high desert environment from a different angle. The pace is slow enough for everyone to enjoy the scenery and take photos — it’s more about soaking in the views than conquering the rapids.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Charismatic

The reviews repeatedly praise guides like Brian, Nick, Billy, and Megan, highlighting their knowledge, charisma, and patience. One reviewer called Megan’s guidance “thorough, helpful, and very patient,” which underscores how guides go beyond just paddling to offer insights about the local environment and history.

Having a charismatic, well-informed guide turns an average float into a memorable experience. It’s clear from feedback that guides are skilled at balancing safety, entertainment, and education, making the trip suitable even for children or less confident paddlers.

The Scenery: What You’ll Love

Expect a variety of desert landscapes, with towering canyon walls, rocky cliffs, and desert flora. Reviewers describe the scenery as “awesome,” “beautiful,” and “breathtaking,” emphasizing how the landscape changes with each curve of the river.

While the pace is relaxed, the scenery keeps you engaged. Some reviewers mention that they would have loved the trip to be a little longer, which suggests that once you’re on the river, the views and atmosphere are compelling enough for an extended stay.

Practical Details: What to Know

The tour is priced at $88 per person, which offers good value considering the included transportation, guide, and scenic experience. It’s a shared activity, so be prepared to share the raft and vehicle with other travelers. The trip requires moderate physical fitness — paddling at times, but generally a gentle experience.

The duration is approximately three hours, from start to finish, including transportation and the actual float. It’s a perfect half-day outing, leaving time afterward for exploring Taos or relaxing.

Booking is usually done around 28 days in advance, indicating its popularity. Flexible cancellation policies allow full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours ahead, a reassuring option in case of bad weather or change of plans.

Why This Tour Works Well

The combination of professional guidance, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace makes this float a popular choice. Travelers often comment on the knowledge and charisma of guides, which elevates the experience from a simple float to a memorable outing.

It’s especially attractive for families with older kids or those who want to enjoy nature without the adrenaline rush of more intense rapids. The chance to swim in the river and relax on a leisurely float adds to its appeal.

One of the standout features is that it’s accessible to beginners, meaning no prior experience or physical fitness is necessary. This inclusivity broadens the potential audience and ensures that most travelers can enjoy the journey.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking a tranquil way to see the stunning landscape around Taos, this float suits you. It’s an excellent option for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate natural beauty and friendly, local guides. But if you’re after high-energy whitewater action, you might want to look elsewhere.

This experience also appeals to those who want a half-day, no-stress outdoor activity that combines gentle paddling, scenic views, and some opportunities for swimming — all in a manageable, affordable package.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For just $88, you get a well-organized, scenic, and relaxing adventure with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. It’s a perfect introduction to New Mexico’s river landscapes, offering a taste of the high desert environment from a peaceful perspective. The reviews confirm that guides like Brian, Nick, Billy, and Megan are well-loved for their professionalism and friendliness, making this experience not just about the scenery, but also about the human connection.

The tour is especially valuable for those visiting Taos who want to enjoy an outdoor activity that’s light on effort but rich in natural beauty. It’s an experience that marries the tranquility of a float with the drama of canyon scenery, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Northern New Mexico.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, including transportation and the actual float.

Where does the tour start?
At Far Flung Riverside, 85 NM-570, Embudo, NM 87531, just a short drive from Taos.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, particularly older children, as the trip is gentle and safe for all experience levels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.

Are there opportunities to swim?
Yes, the tour includes refreshing swimming stops on hot days.

What’s included in the price?
A local and professional guide, transportation to the river, and the float itself.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the experience shared with others?
Yes, it’s a shared activity with a maximum of 100 travelers, but smaller groups are common.

What’s the physical demand?
Moderate; some paddling involved, but guides do most of the work, making it accessible to most fitness levels.

Will the weather affect the tour?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellation or rescheduling, but refunds or alternative dates are offered.

This float down the Rio Grande offers a gentle, scenic escape that showcases the best of New Mexico’s high desert environment, paired with expert guides and a relaxed pace. It’s a splendid way to wind down and soak in nature’s quiet majesty without the stress of intense activity. Perfect for those seeking a calming outdoor experience, this tour is a delightful slice of Taos’ outdoor charm.