Mountain views, hiking and a piece of local history: Red River combines a range of experiences for a stay. The Scenic Summer Chairlift carries passengers 1,600 vertical feet to the summit of the Red River Ski Area. From there, views extend across the Carson National Forest, Red River and the surrounding mountains of New Mexico. The lift operates seasonally; operating schedules and weather availability may vary.
Mountain Activities and Trails
The Red River Ski Area is also a starting point for mountain bikers: Experienced riders can use the chairlift and descend 4,000 vertical feet on maintained trails. Trail access and lift operations are seasonal. The Red River Ski & Summer Area has more than 67 runs for all skill levels and seven lifts; operator information may be updated.
Red River has mapped hiking trails for all skill levels that begin right outside your door. Another option is the Community House’s weekly hikes. They take place in and around Red River and all start at the Community House; the schedule may change. Guided horseback rides range from short rides for beginners that start right in town to full-day rides through high-elevation mountain terrain. Offerings and schedules may vary by operator.
For those who prefer water to high-elevation trails, fly fishing is available year-round on the Red River and at surrounding lakes and streams. Fishing regulations and conditions may change. For motorized outings, several forest roads accessible to Jeeps, OHVs and motorcycles lead in every direction from Main Street. Permits and the rules of the relevant land management agency apply.
Scenery and History
In the area around Red River, the lower four miles of the Red River within the RĂo Grande del Norte National Monument are designated as a Wild and Scenic River. The confluence of the Red River and the RĂo Grande is also nearby. It can be reached via the Little Arsenic Trail or the Big Arsenic Trail. Both trails lead to this named destination; the river designation and hiking trails offer different ways to explore the landscape.
The mining history can also be traced to specific dates: The Copper King copper mine in Red River was first worked in 1867 and was the first known mine established in Taos County. The Little Red School House Museum was built in 1915 and used as a schoolhouse until 1942. The Little Red Schoolhouse Museum houses school desks, old photographs and numerous artifacts from Red River’s past.
The annual Oktoberfest is a three-day celebration featuring craft beer, wine, spirits, artisans, food vendors, live entertainment and competitions. Dates and programming change from year to year. If you’d like to plan your stay around the celebration, check the dates and program for the relevant year.
Getting Around
Red River Miners Transit provides free, wheelchair-accessible transportation within town seven days a week, year-round. Service hours may vary in summer, on holidays and during special events. Free Route 310 Red River also connects Questa and Red River. Check the regional transit schedule before traveling.
The Red River Visitor & Conference Center is located at 101 W River St. When planning your trip, you can first decide which interests you’d like to focus on: mountain activities and trails, fly fishing, historic sites or an event. It’s worth factoring seasonal lift and trail access, as well as changing transit schedules and event dates, into your itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Arroyo Hondo, El Prado, Questa, Taos, Valdez, Ranchos De Taos, Costilla, Taos Ski Valley.
Return to the main travel overview: Taos.
