Rio Grande River Access
in Albuquerque
Below is a interactive river map for the Rio Grande in the Greater Albuquerque Area. There are several access points identified on the map. Please use this information to have a great river experience. If you have questions please call our office at 505-717-2526. Remember that it is state law in New Mexico to WEAR A LIFE JACKET while on the river or lakes.
Maps for the common sections of Rio Grande are now available in our E-book Below
Algodones to Coronado Campground
Coronado Campground to Siphon Beach
Siphon Beach to Alameda
Calabaclillas to Central
Alternative High Water Locations-See the E Book Below.
Calabacillas Arroyo- located between Alameda and Paseo on the westside of the Rio Grande
I-40/ Rio Grande Blvd
Tingley Beach
Central
Updates:
7/1/2023: Spring Flows have subsided. Watch out for Strainers and Sweepers that have moved during the high flows and give them the space they need.
5/4/2023: Flows have exceeded 4500cfs due to the spring melt. Real Time River Level at Alameda
4/2023: This season snowmelt is awesome! That being said the river is colder than normal and higher. Be mindful as the rocks are shifting at the weir.
3/2021: MRGCD has complete a small portage trail near the river to avoid paddling over the rock weir. There is a sign located upstream advising of the hazard.
12/2020: The Rock Weir Construction has been completed and signage added at Siphon Beach. Please scout when in doubt.
River access is a tricky subject in New Mexico. We are working to make it easier. With the purchase of this digital download you are helping us, get outside and document access, access issues, and illegal closures.
This product contains pictures, directions, and map links, we are dedicated to updating this product as necessary to maintain it’s value to you.
A note on Digital Down Loads
All sales are final. Refunds are not available for this type of product due to the digital format of the product. Thank You-MGMT
River Etiquette from a Paddler's Perspective
River etiquette is crucial for maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. As a paddler, it is essential to understand and respect the unwritten rules that govern our interactions with fellow river enthusiasts. Firstly, it is vital to yield the right of way to downstream paddlers and commercial rafts, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic. Additionally, maintaining a safe distance between boats and avoiding crowding other paddlers shows respect for personal space and helps prevent collisions. Noise pollution should be minimized to allow everyone on the river to enjoy the serenity of nature.
Rigging and Unloading are two key aspects to a safe and fun day on the water. This preparation starts at the parking lot. By parking in the spaces provided we can maintain a cooperative loading and unloading zone. Get your gear rigged there, not at the waters edge if you can help it, and refrain from parking in the turn-around zone for extended periods of time. This adversely effects other users who might need the space to turn or back a trailer.
Finally, respecting the environment by disposing of litter responsibly, avoiding damage to vegetation and wildlife, and leaving no trace behind is inherent to a paddler's code of conduct. If you are tubbing and you get a puncture, it is your responsibility to take your deflated tube or raft and put it in the trash or recycling container. Don’t be part of the problem. By adhering to these guidelines, we ensure a harmonious river experience for all, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and preserving the beauty of our waterways for generations to come.
River Safety
River Safety doesn’t just happen. You have to have a body of knowledge, learned through professional classes or a knowledgeable friend or local club. You have to plan for your trip, the good, the bad, and the ugly. Lucky there are several great organizations who take education seriously, just like MST Adventures.
Please use the following films as a tool to increase your body of knowledge. This is not formal training, but a jump start to safe practices. The following films have been produced by American Whitewater through a grant from the U.S. Coast Guard. American Whitewater is a Non-profit membership driven organization. You can/ should join or donate here.
Be safe out there and have a great day on the water.
Join our Spring River Safety Class!
