Float peacefully along the Rio Grande’s Bosque near Bernalillo, NM, and enjoy vibrant wildlife, stunning cottonwoods, and a serene river journey.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners and those with moderate fitness; little paddling experience needed as guides handle navigation.
Wildlife
History
The Rio Grande’s Bosque has long supported indigenous communities and remains a vital riparian habitat in the arid Southwest.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting the Bosque’s native cottonwoods and wetlands to maintain biodiversity and water quality along the Rio Grande.
Quiet Waters Paddling Adventures
Float peacefully along the Rio Grande’s Bosque near Bernalillo, NM, and enjoy vibrant wildlife, stunning cottonwoods, and a serene river journey.
Quiet Waters Paddling Adventures is a Bernalillo, New Mexico-based outfitter offering guided paddling experiences on the Rio Grande. The company specializes in serene float trips through the cottonwood Bosque, giving paddlers close-up views of river islands, native wildlife, and riparian habitats. Its core offerings include The Bosque (Guided), a peaceful Rio Grande float through protected Bosque and cottonwood stands, and the NM Wilderness Alliance Interpretive Float & Fundraiser, a collaborative educational outing that explores the Bosque of Santa Ana Pueblo and includes a picnic and discussion of conservation topics.
All trips run on stretches of the Rio Grande near Bernalillo and focus on relaxed paddling, natural observation, and river access for a variety of participants. Guided floats navigate gentle currents and sections described as gentle rapids in the interpretive fundraiser, combining outdoor recreation with conservation education led in partnership with New Mexico Wilderness Alliance. Quiet Waters Paddling Adventures emphasizes low-impact paddling and provides routes that highlight Bosque ecosystems and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Visitors can expect guided on-water time aimed at connecting paddlers with the Rio Grande environment and local Bosque landscapes. The business's collaboration with a recognized conservation organization adds an educational and fundraising dimension to select outings, making those trips suitable for participants interested in environmental issues and river stewardship.
Trips highlight wildlife observation opportunities, including native riparian birds and aquatic species commonly found in the Rio Grande Bosque. Quiet Waters Paddling Adventures operates within the Bosque corridor near Bernalillo, creating accessible river experiences for nature-focused paddlers and education.
Tours Offered
2 guided trips
Guided Rio Grande float experiences
Location
Bernalillo, NM
Based on the Rio Grande corridor
Partner
New Mexico Wilderness Alliance
Collaborative interpretive fundraiser
River Focus
Rio Grande Bosque
Cottonwood bosque habitat route
Book a guided float or join the NM Wilderness Alliance interpretive fundraiser to experience the Rio Grande Bosque near Bernalillo.
Bring a waterproof camera or phone case
Capture stunning photos without worry about water damage during your float.
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures can vary; layering keeps you comfortable from cool mornings to warmer afternoons.
Use biodegradable sunscreen
Protect your skin while preserving the delicate river ecosystem.
Arrive early to avoid crowds
Early trips offer a quieter experience and better chances to see wildlife.
Waterproof bag
Keep personal items dry during your river float.
Hat with brim
Protect your face and neck from strong sun exposure.
summer
Lightweight fleece or jacket
Stay warm during cooler mornings and evenings on the river.
fall
Water shoes
Provide secure footing while entering and exiting watercraft.