Rio Chama, New Mexico

Rio Chama

The Rio Chama is a major tributary of the Rio Grande in northern New Mexico. It flows through a multi-colored sandstone canyon which is, at times, 1,500 feet deep and through a wilderness and wilderness study area. Towering cliffs, heavily wooded side canyons and historical sites offer an outstanding wild river backdrop for the hiker, fisherman, or boater.

Car camping is popular on the lower eight miles, and boaters enjoy can two- or three-day trips on Class II rapids on the entire 31-mile segment (advance permits required), or half day trips on the lower segment (no advance permits required).

Co-managed by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service, the Rio Chama offers something for everyone — paddling, trout fishing, hiking, exploring dinosaur tracks and simply relaxing in the shade. Applications for boating permits in the upper canyon can be obtained by contacting the BLM at the address/telephone above. Applications for the lottery must be received by February 1 of each year.

Outstandingly Remarkable Values

Cultural

Northern New Mexico, and the Rio Chama Valley in particular, are known as some of the richest regions for archeology studies in the U.S. For more than three centuries—about A.D. 1250 to 1577 —this spectacular locale was home for over 1500 Pueblo Indians who built villages, dwelled, farmed and hunted game here.

Ecologic

Trout often flourish in the river, and onshore residents include mule deer, black bears, elk, coyotes and mountain lions. Varying canyon elevations also provide a wide range of vegetation, from low-lying pinion-juniper woodland to ponderosa pine and fir. Between 70 and 80 different bird varieties can be found in the Chama River Canyon. Raptors, hawks and owls perch along the canyon walls and surrounding trees.

Geologic

The Rio Chama carved a 900-foot-deep canyon of colorful siltstone, gypsum and sandstone layers. Floating down the river provides an ever changing view of sedimentary layers traveling back in time millions of years. There are even the imprints of dinosaur tracks preserved in one side canyon.

Recreational

Water releases from the upstream El Vado Lake Dam are often timed to allow weekend river floats from below El Vado Reservoir to Big Eddy. To protect the river environment and to maintain an opportunity for a high-quality experience, use is limited through a lottery system. Several hiking trails also provide access from the uplands down to the river. The lower eight miles of the river includes two campgrounds and a road paralleling the river that provides for easy access.

Scenic

The Rio Chama creates a canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone surrounded by gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes.