Rio Grande Gorge Rim Road
Epic canyon rim drive with ancient petroglyphs
This rim road follows the edge of the Rio Grande Gorge where the river has carved a 800-foot-deep basalt canyon through the Taos Plateau. The route starts near the famous gorge bridge on Highway 64 and follows rough dirt roads that parallel the canyon rim, offering spectacular views into the gorge and across to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Wild Rivers Recreation Area serves as the northern terminus, where the Rio Grande meets the Red River in a confluence that’s been drawing people for thousands of years. Petroglyphs and ancient campsites dot the rim.
Easy to moderate difficulty with some loose surfaces and a few steep grades, but manageable for any high-clearance vehicle. Spring and fall offer the best conditions and fewer crowds. No permits required for the rim road, though camping requires following BLM regulations. The area can be windy year-round, and afternoon thunderstorms in summer can turn dirt surfaces slippery. Multiple access points allow for shorter day trips or longer expeditions exploring the various canyon overlooks and ancient sites.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 32 mi / 51.5 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7200 ft |
| Best season | April-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Taos, NM |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drive this trail in a regular SUV or do I need 4WD?
A high-clearance 2WD vehicle is sufficient for Rio Grande Gorge Rim Road. The dirt surface is well-maintained, but ground clearance is essential for rocky sections and wash crossings.
Is the trail accessible in winter months?
Winter access depends on snow conditions, with the best season running April through November. Snow and ice can make the rim road impassable and dangerous due to exposed canyon edges.
Do I need permits or pay fees to drive the rim road?
No permits or fees are required for the rim road itself. However, if you plan to access Wild Rivers Recreation Area for camping or river access, there may be day-use fees.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
Despite being rated easy, the exposed rim sections can be nerve-wracking with steep drop-offs and minimal barriers. Rocky wash crossings require careful tire placement but aren't technically difficult.
Are there established campsites along the rim or just dispersed camping?
Dispersed camping is allowed along most of the rim road on BLM land. Wild Rivers Recreation Area also offers developed campsites with facilities if you prefer established sites over boondocking.