Orilla Verde Recreation Area

Orilla Verde Recreation Area follows the Rio Grande south of Taos. Unlike the overlooks farther north, Orilla Verde gives you direct access to the river for hiking, fishing, camping, and paddling. The canyon is still present here, but the river is much easier to explore on foot.

What to Do

The La Vista Verde Trail is one of the easiest ways to explore the area. The roughly 2.4-mile round-trip trail climbs above the river to open views across the gorge and passes several petroglyphs along the way. Several campgrounds are spread along the river, making Orilla Verde a nice base for exploring the southern Rio Grande Gorge. Some sites can accommodate RVs, while others are better suited to tents and smaller setups. Fishing is also popular along this stretch of the Rio Grande, with trout and other species found in the river. For boaters, the area provides access to both calmer sections of the Rio Grande and the better-known whitewater stretches farther downstream.

How Much Time to Spend

Allow around an hour for the La Vista Verde Trail. Fishing, paddling, or camping can turn Orilla Verde into an all-day or overnight stop.

Getting There

Orilla Verde is reached from NM-68 near Pilar and follows NM-570 along the Rio Grande. The road through the recreation area is paved, with multiple campgrounds, river access points, picnic areas, and trailheads along the way. Day-use and camping fees apply in parts of the recreation area. Facilities vary by campground, but vault toilets and other basic amenities are available at several locations.

Orilla Verde is a great place to experience the Rio Grande Gorge from river level rather than from an overlook above!