Kayaking in New Mexico

Kayaking Trips in New Mexico

As a state in the desert Southwest, New Mexico shows off this beautiful landscape as you pass through. But, get on the water and you'll also be treated to cottonwood-lined rivers and migratory waterfowl! Check out all kayaking trips in New Mexico for every level of kayaker. Whether you're looking for a guided trip, kayak rentals, self-guided, day trip, multi-day trip, or anything in between, there's a kayak trip in New Mexico for you! If you've paddled New Mexico before, be sure to share your trip with the rest of us!

Planning the trip of a lifetime? Check out these safe paddling tips and always wear your life jacket


- Brought to you by the Water Sports Foundation and the SFRBTF administered by the U.S. Coast Guard -

Guide to Kayaking in New Mexico

The weather can get quite hot in the summer, not bad if you can get in the water instead of paddling on top of it! Keep an eye on the water levels, and you might just be able to paddle through the fall colors when the temps cool. Here are a few popular paddling destinations in New Mexico:

  • San Juan River
  • Rio Grande River
  • Elephant Butte Lake

Kayaking Locations In New Mexico

If you want to plot your own route, check out all paddling locations in New Mexico! Search thousands of put-in and take-out locations on our Paddling Locations Map and be sure to download the Go Paddling app where you can save favorites or create and share a float plan!

Plan a Kayaking Trip in New Mexico

Over the years, many of our paddlers have paddled throughout New Mexico and were so generous to share their paddling experiences with us in a community trip report. Read a few examples of New Mexico community trip reports below:

Connect with Paddlers in New Mexico

Are you looking to connect with other paddlers about going kayaking in New Mexico? Check out the Paddling.com Message Boards for resources to help you get started.