Chavez Canyon Boat Launch
Important Note: Flows are variable and may not be boatable at times. Check USGS gages before your trip to ensure you have up-to-date flow information: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/08285500/#parameterCode=00060&period=P7D
Recommended minimum flows for small craft (kayaks, canoes) is 300 cubic feet per second.
Recommended minimum flows for larger craft (rafts) is 500 cubic feet per second.
High flows (above 2,000 cubic feet per second) can bring hazardous and swift conditions.
The Chavez Canyon Boat Launch day-use site provides non-motorized river boating access to the Wild and Scenic Rio Chama. It is located off of Forest Road 151, has limited parking and a vault toilet restroom. Personal day-use float trips down the 8.5 miles to Big Eddy Take-Out do not require a permit, however all commercial rafting outfitters must obtain a special use permit from the Santa Fe National Forest. For multi-day float trips starting at El Vado Ranch, please contact the Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office for information on their lottery reservation system via Recreation.gov. Check Rio Chama flow information above Abiquiu Reservoir on the USGS website or call 888-882-6188.
General Information
Day-use only.
No permit is required for personal day-use river float trips. All commercial outfitters must have a special use permit, usually issued for the Rio Chama by the Bureau of Land Management Taos Field Office.
No recreation fee.
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 36.36439058
Longitude: -106.68093414
Elevation
6430
Directions
Travel US 84 to FR 151, take FR151 12 miles to Chavez Canyon Put-In.
Facility and Amenity Information
Accessibility
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
