Hike To Petroglyphs, Then Reward Yourself With A Float Trip On The Rio Grande River In New Mexico

Have you ever been on a hike and float trip in New Mexico? If you are interested in such a fun day trip, you’re in luck as this article offers recommendations for both. The hike is in the Wild Rivers Recreation Area, in Questa, New Mexico, which has been set aside just for people like you to enjoy two national Wild and Scenic Rivers protected by U.S. Congress. The two rivers preserved here are the Red River and the Rio Grande River, and the float trip goes down the Rio Grande. Enjoy this hike and float trip in New Mexico's most beautiful and inspiring places, and look out for the interesting, mystical evidence of those who came before.

1. Big Arsenic Trail

Set aside about an hour and a half to hike this moderately challenging 2.4-mile out-and-back trail near Questa, New Mexico. The trailhead is located at the day-use area of the Big Arsenic Springs Campground, where you'll find an information kiosk and pit latrines.

The trek can be difficult on the way up. It drops 640 vertical feet in one mile, making the way down pretty easy, and visually appealing.

Keep on the lookout for the beautiful wildlife in the meadows, such as mule deer, elk, mountain bluebird, fox, and red-tailed hawk.

You are also likely to spot some of these amazing animals known as bighorn sheep, so keep your phone ready to take some great photos.

When you see this sign between the trail and the river after the first spring, the ancient petroglyphs are nearby.

Amazingly, the prehistoric carvings have survived for us to observe. The images hold deep cultural significance and varied meanings and were used to convey ideas and messages.

These pictures were carved or engraved into the rock's surface. When the patina on the surface was chipped off, the exposure of the lighter rock underneath created the images.

The breathtaking scenic view of the Rio Grande comes from an elevation gain of 839 feet from the depths of the Rio Grande Gorge.

2. Big River Raft Trips

And look out below for your next adventure on the Rio Grande River, about an hour away in Pilar.

Yes, you and your friends could be in this raft right now.

Big River Raft Trips offers whitewater river trips with the inclusion of an interpretive guide, beverages, snacks, and all rafting equipment. The milder Rio Grande Scenic Float trip option takes three hours, with very little whitewater. Be sure to make a reservation.

And there you go, meandering down part of the 1,896 miles of the mighty Rio Grande.

Either go with the flow or catch up to the raft ahead.

Either way, this fertile valley offers one of the best ways to experience New Mexico.

What do you think? Are you ready for a fantastic hike and float trip in New Mexico? Have you been on a similar trip in New Mexico? If so, please let us know in the comments below. And if you are ever in Questa, here are some other activities for a picture-perfect weekend.