Do I need any previous paddling experience?

No prior experience is necessary; the guides will provide instruction suitable for beginners.

What should I bring on the paddle?

Bring water, sun protection, a hat, and any personal items you want to keep dry in a dry bag.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, all necessary safety gear including life jackets will be provided by Ghost Ranch.

Can children participate in this adventure?

Children are welcome when accompanied by adults; please check with Ghost Ranch for specific age requirements.

What if the weather is bad?

The trip may be rescheduled or canceled in case of unsafe weather conditions to ensure your safety.

How do I get to Abiquiu Lake from Santa Fe?

Abiquiu Lake is about a 1.5-hour drive northwest of Santa Fe via US-84, with scenic views along the way.

Private Guided Paddle Adventure at Abiquiu Lake, NM | Guided Tour | Water Activities

Escape the hustle and bustle and spend over three hours exploring the peaceful Abiquiu Lake on a private guided paddle trip with Ghost Ranch. This experience invites you to immerse yourself in the vivid desert landscape of northern New Mexico while gently gliding across calm waters. The guided paddle tour offers a unique way to soak in the pristine environment, combining relaxation with a light physical activity suited for all skill levels. As you paddle, you’ll witness dramatic red rock formations, quiet coves, and striking reflections on the lake’s surface. The solitude and natural beauty create the perfect setting for rejuvenation and mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking an intimate outing with loved ones or a solo escape, this adventure promises tranquility, natural splendor, and a refreshing break from your daily routine. Ghost Ranch’s expert guides will share insights on the local ecosystem and history, enhancing your experience with stories and knowledge about the land and water. This trip is a wonderful choice for those who appreciate slow-paced outdoor activities that engage the senses and provide a moment of peace in nature’s embrace.

About Ghost Ranch

Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico, is a public education and retreat center known for dramatic red hills, colorful cliffs, and cultural resources that inspired artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Located near the village of Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch offers interpretive tours, hiking trails, museums, lodging, camping, and wellness experiences that highlight art, anthropology, and paleontology.

The campus includes the Florence Hawley Ellis Museum and the Ruth Hall Museum, where visitors can learn about the Gallina people and view Triassic fossil discoveries including Coelophysis finds. Guided Paleontology Tours include a scenic drive and a moderate walk to original quarry sites, providing close-up views of Triassic paleontology and fossil history.

Ghost Ranch offers multiple Georgia O’Keeffe experiences, including landscape tours, guided walks retracing O’Keeffe’s paths, and viewpoints of her Ghost Ranch house. Day passes allow access to trails, museums, and a peaceful labyrinth, with on-site café services and both reservation and walk-in options when available.

Accommodations and activities vary from shared rooms with communal baths to RV sites with full hookups and tent-only camping, alongside seasonal workshops, massage and sound therapy, and evening ghost-and-sunset strolls. Programming combines natural scenery, museum interpretation, and guided experiences designed for visitors seeking art, history, and outdoor exploration. Information, schedules, and reservations are provided by Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico.

Special events and weekend programs are offered seasonally, including performances, music, yoga sessions, and poetry readings that celebrate art and culture in the landscape that inspired many artists. Visitor information desks and museum staff provide expert interpretation regularly.