Everybody knows that water is vital to sustaining life but, in New Mexico, water is something that we never take for granted. We’ve experienced its scarcity and that makes us appreciative of every drop. Although our state has the least amount of surface water of all the states in the country, there are still some beautiful rivers in New Mexico. Here are 11 of them:

1. The Rio Grande River
Rio Grande, Rio Grande
Flickr/Daxis
One of the most significant rivers in the Southwest, the 1,896-mile long Rio Grande River runs all the way through New Mexico and forms part of our nation’s border. It starts in Colorado, eventually emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. The river is popular with whitewater rafters (especially in the section near Taos), kayakers, and anyone who enjoys a peaceful view.
2. The Gila River
Gila River, United States
jb10okie/Flickr
A tributary of the mighty Colorado River, the Gila River spans 646 miles and travels through some of the most remote areas of the state. This rare body of water is the only wild (a.k.a undammed) river in New Mexico. It’s a magnet for wildlife and consequently for birders.
3. The Pecos River
Pecos River, United States
Flickr/U.S. Department of the Interior
The Pecos River starts in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and, for the first few of its 926 miles, this is a National Wild and Scenic River. The Pecos is beloved by fishing fans. As it passes through the town of Carlsbad, recreational opportunities abound. Hit the man-made beach, take a boat cruise down the river, or rent a pedal boat! It is definitely one of the most beautiful waterways in New Mexico.
4. The Rio Chama River
Rio Chama, New Mexico, USA
Flickr/Photo Kent
The headwaters for the 130-mile Rio Chama River are located in Colorado. However, this tributary of the Rio Grande flows through some of New Mexico’s prettiest landscapes. As New Mexico rivers go, it’s a photographer’s dream. Definitely visit the section near Abiquiu.
5. The Black River
Black River, New Mexico 88256, USA
Flickr/Joel Deluxe
The Black River passes near Carlsbad and the Texas border. This river that, in places, is more of a stream linking pools together is both scenic and undiscovered. Head to the Black River Recreation Area to admire it for yourself.

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6. The Rio Pueblo de Taos
Rio Pueblo de Taos, New Mexico, USA
Flickr/J.N. Stuart
The headwaters for this river are high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, close to Wheeler Peak - our state’s tallest mountain. Although short (at roughly 33 miles long) the Rio Pueblo flows right through Taos Pueblo, providing a vital water source for this UNESCO World Heritage Site and also contributing to the Pueblo’s enduring beauty.
7. The Animas River
Animas River, United States
Flickr/Erin
Although many associate The Animas River with towns like Durango in Colorado, it actually unites with the San Juan River in the New Mexican city of Farmington. A charming walking trail runs alongside the Animas there, providing a spot for families to enjoy the great outdoors together (dogs are welcome).
8. The Jemez River
Jemez River, New Mexico, USA
Flickr/Martin Bravenboer
The 50-mile long Jemez River joins the Rio Grande. If you drive along NM-4, you can stop at various points along the way and even see where the scenic river flows through Soda Dam (pictured).
9. The Mimbres River
Mimbres River, New Mexico 88030, USA
Flickr/Anthony Zuefeldt
The 91-mile long Mimbres River is fed by snow from the Black Range. If you’re in the Silver City area, check out the tranquil Mimbres River Preserve, a serene spot in New Mexico.
10. The Rio Brazos
Rio Brazos, New Mexico 87551, USA
Second-Half Travels/Flickr
Formed from two streams, the Rio Brazos feeds into the Rio Chama River. It travels through one of our state’s biggest canyons, the Brazos Box, before tumbling 2,400 feet down as Brazos Falls. This river, which is one of the prettiest New Mexico rivers, is best admired in spring, when the water flow is the greatest.
11. The Santa Fe River
Tripadvisor/on_the_go_98765
Charming but by no means big, the Santa Fe River actually cuts through Santa Fe. A path and narrow park line its banks, making this a popular spot for strolling. The 46-mile long river is a tributary for the Rio Grande.

Do you have a favorite New Mexico river or are you equally grateful for them all?

You may be interested in our past article: “12 Gorgeous Lakes In New Mexico You Must Check Out This Summer.”

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Rivers in New Mexico

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | June 27, 2022

What are some of the longest rivers in New Mexico?

Besides the Rio Grande which is not only the longest in the state but also the longest in the entire United States, there’s the Canadian River which flows through Colorado, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, the Cimarron River flows which flows through New Mexico. Oklahoma, Colorado, and Kansas, and the Pecos River which flows through New Mexico and Texas.

Can you name a few rivers town in New Mexico?

The Land of Enchantment is home to some of the most charming river towns in the country. Among them is Farmington, where the Animas, La Plata, and San Juan Rivers all flow through town. The town of Mesilla, situated near Las Cruces is one of the river towns where the Rio Grande roars through, and then there’s Abiquiu (pronounced a·buh·kyoo) where the Chamas River makes an appearance, just to name a few.

Are there any rivers in New Mexico where I can go tubing?

Tubing is a popular outdoor recreational activity in New Mexico and a lot of people love to do so on the Los Rios River. There is a company that guides tubers at a point along the river about 40 minutes west of the town of Angel Fire. The landscape along the way is stunning and provides plenty of opportunities to relax and take in all that nature has to offer.

What is there to do in Las Cruces, New Mexico?

There are lots of things to do in Las Cruces. So much so, in fact, that many people will come here to spend an entire weekend. The dining scene is thriving here, and those who love to sample wine will find several amazing wineries here. Shopping, hiking, and live music in season are other popular activities.

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