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Chama River Canyon Wilderness – Image Gallery

Mesa Laguna in Chama River Canyon Wilderness, New Mexico, US
The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California
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 can enjoy 2- or 3-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. 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. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act provides three levels of river classification: wild, scenic, and recreational. Wild rivers are free of dams, generally inaccessible except by trail, and represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic rivers are free of dams, with shorelines or watersheds that are still largely primitive and shorelines that are largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational rivers are readily accessible by road or railroad, may have some development along their shorelines, and may have been dammed in the past.
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 can enjoy 2- or 3-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. 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. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act provides three levels of river classification: wild, scenic, and recreational. Wild rivers are free of dams, generally inaccessible except by trail, and represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic rivers are free of dams, with shorelines or watersheds that are still largely primitive and shorelines that are largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational rivers are readily accessible by road or railroad, may have some development along their shorelines, and may have been dammed in the past.


Chama River Canyon Wilderness

The Chama River Canyon Wilderness in New Mexico is a rugged and remote area characterized by deep canyons and stunning rock formations.

Details

Chama River Canyon Wilderness

The Chama River Canyon Wilderness is a stunning and remote wilderness area located in northern New Mexico. This wilderness area covers approximately 50,300 acres and is characterized by its rugged canyons, towering cliffs, and the pristine Chama River that flows through it.

One of the most striking features of the Chama River Canyon Wilderness is the dramatic geology of the area. The canyon walls rise up to 1,500 feet in some places, creating a breathtaking landscape that is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The Chama River itself flows through the canyon, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

Ecologically, the Chama River Canyon Wilderness is incredibly diverse and home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The area is a critical habitat for several endangered species, including the Mexican spotted owl and the Rio Grande cutthroat trout. The wilderness area also supports healthy populations of mule deer, elk, and black bear.

Visitors to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. The wilderness area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of New Mexico's natural landscapes.

Overall, the Chama River Canyon Wilderness is a truly special place that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and explore the unique beauty of the American Southwest.



Chama River Canyon Wilderness

Points of Interest

Chama River

The Chama River is the main attraction of the Chama River Canyon Wilderness. This scenic river flows through a deep canyon, offering stunning views and excellent opportunities for fishing and whitewater rafting.

Chama River Canyon Wilderness Area

The Chama River Canyon Wilderness Area is a designated wilderness area that encompasses the Chama River and surrounding canyon. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the rugged terrain and enjoy the solitude of this remote wilderness area.

El Vado Lake State Park

El Vado Lake State Park is located near the Chama River Canyon Wilderness and offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and camping. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Ghost Ranch

Ghost Ranch is a historic ranch located near the Chama River Canyon Wilderness. It is known for its stunning red rock formations and rich history. Visitors can explore the ranch's hiking trails, museums, and art galleries.

Monastery of Christ in the Desert

The Monastery of Christ in the Desert is a peaceful retreat located near the Chama River Canyon Wilderness. Visitors can attend daily prayers and services, as well as enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the monastery.

Overall, the Chama River Canyon Wilderness offers a variety of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to enjoy. Whether you are interested in hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the scenic beauty of the area, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this stunning wilderness area.



Chama River Canyon Wilderness – Images

Mesa Laguna in Chama River Canyon Wilderness, New Mexico, US

Description: Mesa Laguna in Chama River Canyon Wilderness, New Mexico, US

Image by Clyde Charles Brown – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia

The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Description: The Rio Chama Wilderness Study Area is located in northern New Mexico. The landscape consists of gently rolling sagebrush-covered plains and a 900-foot (270 m) deep canyon of colorful siltstone and sandstone carved by the Rio Chama. Piñon woodlands cover the hills, and forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir cover the north facing slopes. The diversity of habitat types provide for a variety of wildlife. This scenic area includes excellent opportunities for river rafting; the Rio Chama is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. (Click here to visit the Rio Chama Wild and Scenic River site.) This WSA is adjacent to the Chama River Canyon Wilderness, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Learn more: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/prog/wilderness/wilderness_study_are... Photo: Bob Wick, BLM California

Image by Bureau of Land Management – Public domain – Wikimedia

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 can enjoy 2- or 3-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. 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. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act provides three levels of river classification: wild, scenic, and recreational. Wild rivers are free of dams, generally inaccessible except by trail, and represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic rivers are free of dams, with shorelines or watersheds that are still largely primitive and shorelines that are largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational rivers are readily accessible by road or railroad, may have some development along their shorelines, and may have been dammed in the past.

Description: 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 can enjoy 2- or 3-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. 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. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act provides three levels of river classification: wild, scenic, and recreational. Wild rivers are free of dams, generally inaccessible except by trail, and represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic rivers are free of dams, with shorelines or watersheds that are still largely primitive and shorelines that are largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational rivers are readily accessible by road or railroad, may have some development along their shorelines, and may have been dammed in the past.

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

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 can enjoy 2- or 3-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. 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. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act provides three levels of river classification: wild, scenic, and recreational. Wild rivers are free of dams, generally inaccessible except by trail, and represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic rivers are free of dams, with shorelines or watersheds that are still largely primitive and shorelines that are largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational rivers are readily accessible by road or railroad, may have some development along their shorelines, and may have been dammed in the past.

Description: 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 can enjoy 2- or 3-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. 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. Photo by Bob Wick, BLM. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act provides three levels of river classification: wild, scenic, and recreational. Wild rivers are free of dams, generally inaccessible except by trail, and represent vestiges of primitive America. Scenic rivers are free of dams, with shorelines or watersheds that are still largely primitive and shorelines that are largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. Recreational rivers are readily accessible by road or railroad, may have some development along their shorelines, and may have been dammed in the past.

Image by mypubliclands – Public domain – Wikimedia

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