Some summer visitors seek serenity and relaxation. Others require the excitement of new activities and adventures. Red River has much to offer and it's also a great base for day trip excursions. Here's a few suggestions that may help you attain your vacation goals, whatever they may be.· Go Shopping. America's #1 sport, creative shopping is alive and well in Red River's wide variety of shops, stores and galleries. You can buy a camera.
· Go on a Surrey Ride around town. These four-wheeled pedal-powered vehicles are a great way to see the town and have some fun. You know what they say: The family that peddles together... P.S. Be sure and take your camera.
· Why not try whitewater rafting in the fabled Rio Grande, hot air balloon rides above the Taos Plateau or a day-long ride on an old-timey narrow-gauge train through the breathtaking mountains and canyons of Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. You can book these activities and many more right here in Red River. Don't forget your camera.
· Tour the scenic Enchanted Circle by car, motorcycle or bicycle. Red River, Questa, Taos, Angel Fire and Eagle Nest: It's an 84-mile loop that will take you from the alpine zone in Red River to the high desert and sub-alpine zones around the Circle. Buy a disposable camera if you don't have one.
· Visit the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. A wonder of engineering, the bridge west of Taos spans the Rio Grande located 800 feet below in "the Gorge." Formed by a geological rift long ago, you'll see the ancient layers of Mother Earth in plain view below. With any luck you'll see eagles gliding effortlessly on the wild and unpredictable wind currents in the Gorge. Don't leave your camera in the car.
· Take a motorized jaunt through the high country. Sign up for a Guided Jeep Tour conducted by one of Red River's colorful jeep drivers and see the remains of the historic mines that were active during the early days of gold fever. You can also rent a Jeep and pilot yourself along the old lumbering roads that wind through the forest. You can even take an ATV - All Terrain Vehicle - to the top of the world. P.S. Stay on the trails and don't abuse the meadows and valleys that play such a critical role in the survival of the animal species that make their homes in the wild. Take two cameras.
· Wildlife is abundant in the Carson Forest: it's an animal-watcher's dream. Deer and Wapiti (elk) are a common sight and black bears have been known to come to town for dinner. Cougars and Bobcats are more illusive. Beavers and muskrats may be seen working the river and streams and coyotes can be spotted working the territory, too. Have no fear, Birdwatchers. Hummingbirds show up in April and stay until early September. Chickadees, pine siskins, mountain bluebirds and mallards care for their young while ravens, buzzards, hawks and eagles work the thermals of the valley. Use a camera with a zoom lens.
