Red River, New Mexico: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

If you’re looking for a destination that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and culture, Red River, New Mexico should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this charming town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who loves a good adventure.

Top Attractions

Red River has plenty of attractions that are worth exploring. Some of the must-visit places include:

Red River Ski & Summer Area

Located just outside the town, the Red River Ski & Summer Area is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. During summer, the area transforms into a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides.

Mallette Park Nature Trail

If you want to explore the natural beauty of Red River, the Mallette Park Nature Trail is a great place to start. This scenic trail takes you through a lush forest, offering stunning views of the mountains and the river.

Red River Fish Hatchery

The Red River Fish Hatchery is a great place to learn about the local fish species and their habitats. You can also feed the fish and enjoy a picnic in the scenic surroundings.

Hidden Gems

Red River has plenty of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Here are a few of our favorites:

The Enchanted Circle

The Enchanted Circle is a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in New Mexico. The 85-mile loop starts and ends in Taos, and takes you through Red River, Eagle Nest, and Questa.

Wild Rivers Recreation Area

The Wild Rivers Recreation Area is a hidden gem in Red River that offers stunning views of the Red River Gorge and the Rio Grande. You can also enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping in the area.

The Red River Community House

The Red River Community House is a historic building that was built in the 1890s. Today, it serves as a community center and a venue for cultural events and performances.

Food Scene

Red River has plenty of options when it comes to food. Here are a few restaurants that are worth checking out:

Shotgun Willie’s

Shotgun Willie’s is a popular restaurant that serves delicious burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The restaurant also has a great selection of beers on tap.

Texas Reds Steakhouse

If you’re a steak lover, Texas Reds Steakhouse is a must-visit. The restaurant serves some of the best steaks in town, along with a wide selection of wine and cocktails.

Black Diamond Grill

The Black Diamond Grill is a great place to enjoy a casual meal with friends and family. The restaurant serves burgers, pizzas, and other American classics, along with a great selection of beers and cocktails.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Red River can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Here are a few budget-friendly tips:

Visit during the off-season

The peak season in Red River is during the winter months, when the ski resort is open. If you visit during the off-season, you can find great deals on accommodation and activities.

Stay in a vacation rental

Instead of booking a hotel room, consider staying in a vacation rental. This can be a more affordable option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or a family.

Take advantage of free activities

Red River has plenty of free activities that you can enjoy, such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the town’s historic sites. Take advantage of these activities to save money on your trip.

Outdoor Adventures

Red River is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few outdoor adventures that you can enjoy in the area:

Hiking

Red River has plenty of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the mountains and the river. Some of the popular hiking trails include the Mallette Park Nature Trail, the Columbine Trail, and the Wheeler Peak Trail.

Fishing

The Red River is a great spot for fishing, with plenty of trout and other fish species. You can fish in the river or in one of the nearby lakes, such as the Eagle Nest Lake.

Mountain Biking

The Red River Ski & Summer Area offers plenty of mountain biking trails that cater to all levels of experience. You can rent a bike and explore the area on your own, or join a guided tour.

Historical Landmarks

Red River has a rich history that is reflected in its landmarks and historic sites. Here are a few places that you can visit to learn about the town’s past:

The Red River Museum

The Red River Museum is a great place to learn about the town’s history and culture. The museum features exhibits on mining, logging, and the early days of Red River.

The Motherlode Saloon

The Motherlode Saloon is a historic bar that was built in the early 1900s. The bar still retains its old-world charm, with a wooden bar, antique decorations, and a lively atmosphere.

The Old Red River Pass

The Old Red River Pass is a historic road that was used by Native Americans and early settlers to cross the mountains. Today, you can hike or drive along the road and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Family-Friendly Activities

Red River is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that cater to kids and adults alike. Here are a few family-friendly activities that you can enjoy:

The Red River Community House

The Red River Community House offers a variety of programs and events for kids, such as arts and crafts workshops, movie nights, and storytelling sessions.

The Red River Stables

The Red River Stables offer horseback riding tours that take you through the scenic surroundings of Red River. The tours cater to all levels of experience, and kids are welcome.

The Red River Ski & Summer Area

The Red River Ski & Summer Area offers plenty of activities for kids, such as mini golf, gem mining, and scenic chairlift rides.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something unique and off the beaten path, Red River has plenty to offer. Here are a few experiences that you can enjoy:

The Red River Ghost Town

The Red River Ghost Town is a historic site that was once a bustling mining town. Today, you can explore the abandoned buildings and learn about the town’s history and legacy.

The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a stunning suspension bridge that spans the Rio Grande. You can walk or drive across the bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The Red River Art Walk

The Red River Art Walk takes you through the town’s art galleries and studios, showcasing the work of local artists. You can meet the artists, learn about their work, and even purchase some art to take home.

Natural Wonders

Red River is surrounded by natural wonders that are waiting to be explored. Here are a few of the most stunning natural attractions:

The Wheeler Peak Wilderness

The Wheeler Peak Wilderness is a protected area that covers more than 19,000 acres of pristine wilderness. The area is home to the Wheeler Peak, which is the highest peak in New Mexico.

The Red River

The Red River is a beautiful river that flows through the town, offering plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities.

The Carson National Forest

The Carson National Forest is a vast wilderness area that covers more than 1.5 million acres. The forest offers plenty of hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic drives.

Vibrant Nightlife

Red River may be a small town, but it has a vibrant nightlife scene that is worth checking out. Here are a few places that you can visit for a fun night out:

The Motherlode Saloon

The Motherlode Saloon is a lively bar that offers live music, karaoke nights, and other events. The bar also serves great drinks and pub food.

The Bull O’ the Woods Saloon

The Bull O’ the Woods Saloon is a historic bar that has been serving drinks since the early 1900s. The bar offers a great selection of beers and cocktails, along with live music and other events.