Kokopelli Racecourse Rafting Adventure in Dixon, NM
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness including stamina for paddling and swimming if necessary.
Overview
Ride the exciting rapids of the Rio Grande on the Kokopelli Racecourse Half Day rafting adventure near Dixon, New Mexico. Perfect for all ages, this trip promises thrilling waves, warm swims, and stunning river views.
Kokopelli ~ Racecourse Half Day *ON SALE*
Ages 6+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of the Racecourse on the Rio Grande, a five-mile adventure featuring exciting class III-IV rapids in spring and challenging class III runs in summer. Enjoy cold waves and interactive rafting in May and June, or swim and surf as the water warms. Perfect for ages 6 and up!
About
This five-mile section known as the Racecourse is our most popular half-day trip on the Rio Grande. Ranging from a wild class III-IV ride during the spring high-water to a more technical and demanding class III run as the water goes down and the rocks come up in summer. In May and June, be prepared for cold water, big waves, and plenty of interactive excitement. As summer progresses and the water goes down, your guide will be depending on you to help maneuver and power the raft through many tight spots and narrow channels. With the lower water comes warmer water, allowing for more opportunities to jump in and go swimming, and surfing the raft in the waves.
The Racecourse is runnable all season long. If you are looking for the highest water, come in late May and early June.
Highlights:
- About 3 hours round trip
- Class I, II, III rapids (IV in spring)
- Ages 6 and up
What we provide
- Safety orientation
- PFD's Personal Flotation Device aka Life Jackets, sorry no personal PFD's allowed
- Transportation to and from the river
What to Bring
- Please no flip-flops or sandals.
- Sturdy footwear like old tennis shoes work great we also rent river shoes.
- Our Rafts do not have storage, please leave all personal items in the hotel room or vehicle.
Other Details
- Sign the digital waiver ASAP for everyone in the group. Look for an email called “DUE NOW ~ Waiver Link ~ Sign TODAY” (this may end up in your junk folder).
Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours/KOKOPELLI
- for questions please call (970)259-0289
Adventure Tips
Wear a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket
Safety first—life jackets are mandatory and provided, ensuring every rafter stays protected.
Bring quick-dry clothing
Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking layers that dry fast and keep you comfortable on the river.
Apply reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin from sunburn while keeping the river’s ecosystem healthy by using environmentally friendly sunscreen.
Secure personal belongings
Use waterproof bags or leave valuables behind as rafting can easily result in lost items.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Great blue herons
History
The Rio Grande has served as a critical waterway and cultural site for indigenous peoples and settlers for centuries.
Conservation
Durango Rivertrippers promotes Leave No Trace principles and supports local river conservation efforts to maintain the Rio Grande’s ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Santa Fe
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof dry bag
Protect your belongings from water exposure on this rafting adventure.
Water shoes or secure sandals
Offers foot protection and grip on wet, rocky surfaces during the trip.
spring|summer specific
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dries rapidly after water exposure.
spring|summer specific
Wide-brim sun hat
Provides shade and protection from strong summer sun during breaks.
summer specific