Red River Travel Guide

Plan your adventure to the beautiful town of Red River, New Mexico with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay.


Introduction to Red River

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Red River is a picturesque town in North Central New Mexico, in the Southwest region of the United States. The town is a popular destination for adventure seekers, with its natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities. Red River offers visitors a unique blend of Western charm, stunning scenery, and small-town hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in Red River

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Red River has a rich history and culture that is exemplified in its museums and historical sites. These include:

  • Red River Museum: This museum showcases the town’s history, from its mining days to its evolution as a resort town. It has exhibits and artifacts that reflect the town’s past.

  • Red River Mining District: This historic district is a testament to the town’s mining days. Visitors can explore the remnants of old mines and learn about the town’s mining history.

Natural Attractions of Red River: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Red River is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery that offers visitors an array of outdoor activities. These include:

  • Carson National Forest: This forest covers more than 1.5 million acres and offers hiking trails, biking trails, and scenic drives. Visitors can also go camping, fishing, and hunting.

  • Red River Ski Area: This ski area is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. It has a variety of ski slopes and trails for all skill levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Red River

Red River is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best trails in the area:

  • Middle Fork Lake Trail: This 6-mile trail is a must-do for hikers. It takes visitors through a beautiful forest to the Middle Fork Lake, where they can fish or have a picnic.

  • Pioneer Creek Trail: This 7-mile trail is a great option for intermediate hikers. It leads to Horseshoe Lake, where visitors can enjoy a swim or just soak in the beautiful view.

Best Things to Do in Red River: Activities and Tours

Red River offers several activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. These include:

  • Horseback riding: Visitors can go on a guided trail ride and explore the beautiful scenery of Red River.

  • Red River Old Fashioned Chuckwagon Dinner: This tour takes visitors on a horse-drawn wagon ride to a mountain meadow, where they can enjoy a delicious chuckwagon dinner and live music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Red River

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for visitors to Red River:

Day Activity
Monday Hike to Wheeler Peak, the highest peak in New Mexico
Tuesday Go horseback riding in the scenic Carson National Forest
Wednesday Take a chairlift ride to the top of the Red River Ski Area
Thursday Visit the Red River Museum and learn about the town’s history
Friday Go fishing at Middle Fork Lake
Saturday Take a guided ATV tour of the mountains
Sunday Visit the nearby town of Taos, known for its vibrant art scene and rich history

Food and Drink Scene of Red River

Must-Try Dishes

Red River has several restaurants that offer delicious local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Green Chile Cheeseburger: This dish is a New Mexico staple. It consists of a juicy burger topped with melted cheese and spicy green chile.

  • Navajo Taco: This dish features a crisp fry bread topped with refried beans, lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and ground beef.

Local Beverages

New Mexico is known for its margaritas and beers. Visitors to Red River can try some of the locally brewed beers and margaritas at the following establishments:

  • Bull O’ the Woods Saloon: This bar is a popular spot in Red River and offers a wide selection of beers and cocktails.

Where to Stay in Red River: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Red River offers several options for accommodations, from rustic lodges to cozy cabins. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Lodge at Red River: This lodge offers comfortable rooms and suites with mountain views, free wi-fi, and complimentary breakfast.

  • Sitzmark Sports Lodge: This cozy lodge has a rustic charm and offers budget-friendly accommodations.

What to Buy in Red River: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Red River has several shops and boutiques that offer unique souvenirs and local products. Some of the best places to shop include:

  • Red River Mercantile: This shop sells handmade crafts, jewelry, and other souvenirs.

  • Candy Crate: Visitors can indulge in delicious homemade fudge, taffy, and other sweet treats.

Local Culture and Customs of Red River

Red River’s culture and customs are tied to the town’s history as a mining town and its evolution as a tourist destination. Visitors should respect the town’s natural beauty and wildlife, and adhere to laws and regulations governing the use of natural resources.

Best Time to Visit Red River

The best time to visit Red River is in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are plentiful. The ski season runs from November to April, making it a popular time for winter sports enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Red River

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of Red River.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb wildlife.

  • Ignore safety regulations when engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Red River

Red River is a safe town, but visitors should always be mindful of their surroundings and adhere to safety regulations when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Red River

Red River has a small medical center for emergencies, but visitors should always carry their own health insurance and be prepared for any health issues that may arise.

Getting to Red River: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Red River

The nearest airport to Red River is the Taos Regional Airport, which is about 36 miles away. The Albuquerque International Sunport is the closest major airport, and it is about a 3-hour drive from Red River.

Bus Stations Near Red River

The closest bus station to Red River is in Taos, about 34 miles away. There are several bus companies that operate in the area, including Greyhound and Taos Express.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a shuttle service to Red River.

How to Get Around in Red River

The best way to get around in Red River is on foot or by bike. The town is small, and walking or biking is a great way to explore the area. Visitors can also rent a car or take a shuttle service if they prefer.

Where to Go Next from Red River: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Red River is near several other interesting destinations, including:

  • Taos: This vibrant town is known for its rich history, art scene, and outdoor activities.

  • Santa Fe: This historic town is a great destination for art lovers, with its numerous galleries, museums, and shops.

Conclusion

Red River is a beautiful town that offers visitors an array of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food and drink options. Plan your adventure to Red River with this comprehensive travel guide and explore all that this unique destination has to offer.

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