It’s An Epic Day Trip Adventure Riding Horseback, Hiking, And River Rafting In New Mexico

Saddle up, cowboys and cowgirls, it's time for an epic day trip in New Mexico! On this one-of-a-kind adventure, you'll ride horseback through the Taos Plateau, go for a hike, and then go rafting on the Rio Grande. Intrigued? Well, you're going to want to book this experience ASAP!

Welcome to the Rio Grande Stables where your Wild River Saddle & Paddle adventure begins! The stables are located at 7 USFR #9 in Questa, NM.

First thing's first -- you'll start out at the stables where you'll meet your knowledgable guides, get acquainted with your horse, and saddle up. A brief riding lesson will be given before heading out on the trails.

When you set out on the bridle trails, you can take in panoramic views of the Taos Plateau, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the Brazos and Tusas Mountains. It's awe-inspiring, to say the least.

Eventually, you'll make it to the Rio Grande Gorge Overlook and then the Cebolla Mesa Trail where you'll dismount for the next part of this adventure...

Near the trailhead, you'll be introduced to your rafting guides who have prepared a delicious lunch for you. After fueling yourself with a meal, you'll set out on a half-hour hike into the Rio Grande Gorge.

The launch for the rafts is located at the mouth of the Red River Canyon. Once you set out on a raft, it's a 9-mile paddle through the gorge. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as well as scenery as you paddle through!

The Saddle & Paddle experience begins at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m., making it an 8.5-hour day trip extravaganza. So, get ready for this adventure you won't find anywhere else.

So, want to embark on the Wild River Saddle & Paddle Adventure through the Taos Plateau and the Rio Grande? You can book your epic day trip in New Mexico on the Rio Grande Stables website. Rio Grande Stables offers several other experiences as well including an evening ride, an all-day ride, a half-day in the Taos Ski Valley, and a half-day on the Cebolla Mesa.

If you plan on spending time in Taos and surrounding areas, check out the selection of vacation rentals on Vrbo.