Rio Grande Racecourse
Half-day
THE MOST POPULAR TRIP
Time on the water: 2.5- 3 hours
Location
Rio Grande
Adventure Level
moderately technical & challenging depending on water level
Departure Times
9:00 am, 12:00 pm
River Rating
class II-III
Minimum Age
5
Travel Time from Santa Fe
1 HOUR
Cost
$79.00 ADULT + TAX
$75.00 MINOR + TAX
SNACK INCLUDED
Welcome to the Rio Grande Half Day Race Course Section
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Experience the Rio Grande’s wild and scenic waters on this half-day rafting trip, our most popular option. Navigate this 6 mile section with class II-III rapids while taking in the striking landscapes of northern New Mexico.
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Tentative Schedule
Morning Trip (9:00 AM Departure)
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9:00 AM: Depart from the Santa Fe Boatyard.
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10:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Arrive at the put-in, gear up, and receive a safety briefing and paddling instructions.
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10:30 AM – 1:00/1:30 PM: Raft for 2.5 to 3 hours, navigating class II-III rapids.
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1:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Wrap up at the take-out, enjoy a provided snack, and debrief with your party.
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2:00 PM – 3:00/3:30 PM: Return drive to Santa Fe.
Starting early gives you time to enjoy the river in the morning and still explore Santa Fe—whether it’s dining, a movie, or an event at the Rail Yard.
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Afternoon Trip (12:00 PM Departure)
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12:00 PM: Depart from the Santa Fe Boatyard.
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1:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Arrive at the put-in, gear up, and receive a safety briefing and paddling instructions.
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1:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Raft for 2.5 to 3 hours, navigating class II-III rapids.
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4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Wrap up at the take-out, enjoy a snack, and debrief with your party.
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4:30 PM – 5:30/6:00 PM: Return to Santa Fe.
A great option for those who prefer a later start, this trip offers an exciting way to wrap up the day before dinner or an evening out.
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Why Choose the Rio Grande Half-Day Racecourse:
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Exciting Rapids: Navigate six class II-III rapids with professional guidance.
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Geology & Ecology: Learn about the Rio Grande’s rock formations and local wildlife.
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Wildlife Sightings: If luck is on our side, we may have encounters with Great Blue Herons, river otters, and native trout. Keep your eyes ready for those unique moments!
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Scenic Views: Pass through quartz-lined canyon walls and unique basalt formations.
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As your trip comes to an end, your experienced raft guide will set up a wholesome spread featuring a healthy, savory, and sweet snack. You'll savor this delicious treat at County Line River access, where your warm, dry transportation back to Santa Fe will be ready and waiting. Join us for a memorable adventure on the Rio Grande Half Day Race Course Section. Book your trip today and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones!
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Santa Fe Rafting provides all necessary gear, a safety briefing, and training for a successful run. Book your trip today.
WHERE DO WE MEET?
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Meeting Point: Meet your river guide at the Santa Fe Boatyard, located at 1000 Cerrillos Rd., Santa Fe, NM 87505. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time, ensuring a seamless start to your expedition. If specific pick-up plans at your hotel or the river are arranged, follow the agreed-upon schedule.
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Complimentary Shuttle Service: Santa Fe Rafting Co. takes pride in being the only rafting company in northern New Mexico based in Santa Fe. This unique advantage allows us to offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the river, not only saving you gas money but also adding convenience to your entire river trip experience.
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Guided Journey with Interesting Insights: During the 45-minute to 1-hour drive to the river put-in, enjoy the company of our knowledgeable guides. They'll share fascinating facts about New Mexico's history and geology, enriching your journey with insights into the local landscape.
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Option to Meet at the River Take-out: While we encourage meeting at the Santa Fe Boatyard for the full experience, you do have the option to meet your guide at the designated river take-out. For instance, if your post-rafting plans involve heading towards Taos, feel free to park at the "take-out" location of your designated trip. This way, you can seamlessly continue your adventure without the need to return to Santa Fe. Plan accordingly based on your next destination.
Inform Us of Your Meeting Preference: If you choose to meet us directly at the river take-out, please call or email us in advance to inform us of your preference. Your communication ensures that we are well-prepared and ready to accommodate your chosen meeting point.
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At Santa Fe Rafting Co., we strive to provide flexibility and convenience to enhance your overall experience. Whether meeting at the Santa Fe Boatyard or opting for a river put-in rendezvous, we look forward to ensuring your white-water rafting adventure is both thrilling and hassle-free. Feel free to reach out with any additional questions or specific requirements – we're here to make your river trip unforgettable!
​Santa Fe Rafting Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Period
Upon confirmation of your reservation, you may cancel your white-water rafting trip outside of 72 hours from the scheduled departure time and receive a refund minus a 12% service fee. This fee accounts for processing costs, administrative time, and scheduling efforts.
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Forfeiture Within 72 Hours
Any cancellation within 72 hours of your scheduled rafting trip will result in the forfeiture of any refund for the reservation.
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Assured/Guaranteed Reservation
Santa Fe Rafting Company operates under special permits from the Bureau of Land Management, Taos Field Office, and USFS Santa Fe National Forest. Reservations, once confirmed, become assured/guaranteed reservations.
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Cancellation or Denial by SFR
SFR reserves the right to cancel or deny any person's participation in a trip or guided activity based on safety issues related to medical conditions, physical limitations, water levels, river conditions, and wildfire. Trips go out rain or shine, and river activities proceed even in the case of thunderstorms.
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No Exceptions to the Cancellation Policy
Santa Fe Rafting Company does not make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including personal illness or injury. No refunds will be given for late arrivals, no-shows, or early departures.
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Trip Insurance Encouraged
We strongly urge our guests to consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances through your preferred travel insurance company. We do not offer trip insurance through our booking system.
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Refund Details
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Outside 72 Hours: Reservations canceled outside of 72 hours from the scheduled departure time will receive a refund minus a 12% service fee.
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Within 72 Hours: Reservations canceled within 72 hours of the scheduled departure time will not receive a refund or trip credit.​
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Thank you for your understanding and adherence to our cancellation policy. We look forward to providing you with an exceptional white-water rafting experience!