So let’s play a game. Your job is to come up with a list of things that you absolutely, without a doubt, must do while visiting Red River, New Mexico. How long would it take you to compile a list that you felt would be Red River’s essential activity pack? The truth is that Red River, like so many other small towns, may not be big enough for most people to rattle off even a few “must do” things during their visit.
In fact, there’s a good chance you’ll never visit Red River, which is a real shame. This mountain town is the perfect embodiment of everything you’ve ever wanted from a Southwestern vacation destination without the fuss of so many more popular areas. Unlike other places, Red River has activities that span the entire calendar year, which means you can visit at any time and still get the best it has to offer. This mountain oasis seems to have been preserved in a museum to represent a time in this country that was less hectic, which sounds nice and relaxing.
However, don’t let that fool you. If you and your family are big fans of adventure, you’ll get more than you handle. You mean you’ve been to the Rocky Mountains? Check. Is sea level just a big yawn? Well, maybe being almost 9,000 above will put a smile on your face. If only your travels took you to hang out in one of America’s top national parks, right? Boom. Welcome to the Carson National Forest, boss.
Activity is abundant throughout the calendar year, and this is due to the tireless work of the town leaders. Most destinations in the area are content with a busy ski season and then sit a bit dormant for the rest of the year. Red River has taken the opposite approach. Not only do they have an amazing ski season, but they have made sure spring, summer, and fall are packed. Also, with the tremendous backdrop of Mother Nature that they have, they really go all out with outdoor interactions.
No yes, but when you get to Red River, here are five things to do while you’re there:
Wheeler Peak Hiking Trail – Hiking up Wheeler Peak (elevation 13,161 feet) is about four miles each way with an elevation gain of almost 3,000 feet. You’re going to put in some work.
ATV and ATV Tours – Red River Offroad puts you in the driver’s seat of some ATVs to explore all the area has to offer.
hidden treasure air park – Zipline adventures with three levels of difficulty and a grand finale called Ultimate Descent that will really put you to the test.
Red River Ski and Summer Area – This place is an institution, in operation for almost six decades. If you’re looking for year-round fun for the whole family, look no further.
Gold bread – In fact, you can pan for gold in certain areas. Pioneer Canyon, Placer Creek, and Bitter Creek are known hotspots.
Red River, New Mexico may not be the first place you thought of as a vacation destination, but it sure may be the last.
