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PILAR RACE COURSE Half-Day Whitewater Trips is an excellent introduction to the joys of whitewater sport. SEASON April 1-September 30. The biggest whitewater conditions occur during May and June. Late season flows, while slower, offer fun chutes and bouldery drops, along with an opportunity to swim. PARTICIPANTS We welcome rafters of all ages and abilities. The Race Course is well suited for families and first-timers. The minimum age is 6 years at low flows and 12 years or 90 lbs. at high flows (3000 cfs and above). Our guides will teach you how to paddle as a team as most of the rafts we take are paddle boats. In all but very low water levels, we are able to take oar boats for those unable to paddle. In the low water season, we also offer 1-man inflatable kayaks for the good swimmers who feel extra adventuresome. COST $55 per adult, $45 per child, age 11 and under. A 50% per person deposit confirms your reservation. Groups of 12 and above are eligible for our group discounts. SAMPLE ITINERARY This 2 1/2 to 3 hour tour meets at 8:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. each day at the Pilar Yacht Club and Cafe, at the junction of State Highways 68 and 570, 16 miles south of the Taos Plaza, mile marker 28.5. You’ll read and sign the waiver form, thus assuming the normal risks of participation in a guided outdoor activity. We’ll have you park at the BLM public parking lot across the highway. Please stow and lock all valuables in your trunk. At the river, a Personal Floatation Device (lifejacket) will be fitted to you. Instruction in river safety and paddling techniques will be given and then you’re on the river where we’ll navigate Class I to Class III rapids (easy to moderately challenging) with names like: Big Rock, the Narrows, and Souse Hole. We’ll serve refreshments at the end of the trip, and return you to your vehicle and dry cloths! |