Here we go folks....spring has sprung in southern Colorado and the rivers and creeks are going off. Not only Colorado but New Mexico as well.
As the temps rise and things begin to flow, my eyes usually move to the gauges of the Rio Grande river flowing through the Taos, NM valley. An amazing run with miles of siphons, the "Upper Taos Box" is not too difficult as far as moves go, but the consequences are high. Subterranean siphons are everywhere...literally every rapid...so staying on line and more importantly staying in your boat, are key. It's a deep basalt rift valley so the rock's grey to black, sharp, and angular. To get there you head across the north western corner of NM through incredibly beautiful high mountains and desert. I love the drive and when you're loaded up with your buds and everyone's psyched to go boating...well...the drive gets even better.
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| The "Professor" Shawn Fullmer and his candle-light driving :) |
We left late in the afternoon and got into Taos around 9:30pm. Our usual taco spot was still serving so we stopped in for a bite and a few beers. Then we were off to set up camp at the campground located on the canyon rim. It's a great spot because to get out of the canyon and back to camp you have to climb 250m up and cruise along a nice 1 km long trail which deposits you right at camp and cold beers.
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Camp and night photography
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Like I was saying above, this run is really fun but has potential for carnage because of the siphon nature of it. It's drop pool for the most part and at our flows, it wasn't pushy at all. There's hardly anyone up there which gives it a wilderness feel.
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Typical UTB goods
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| Lots of moves and slots |
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| Love the face shots !!!! |
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Fun and sun
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If you're in the 4 Corners area and are looking for a great run with sweet camping and beautiful scenery, make sure you check out the Upper Taos Box.
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