• Horses have played a special part in Red River's history from the early days in the valley and they still are a colorful and wonderful part of the character of our town. The Red River Riding Club is dedicated to maintaining the equine presence in the high country by organizing events that center around our four-legged friends. Watch for them during the 4th of July Parade. Also a series of Ranch Rodeos at the Rodeo Grounds will be held this summer, as well as various fund raisers. You don't have to own a horse to have fun, though, as guided horseback trail rides are available daily.• 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 are a few suggestions that may help you attain your vacation goals, whatever they may be.
• Creative shopping is alive and well in Red River's wide variety of shops, stores and galleries. In fact, in the thin air of the high country, it takes on all the charm of a creative and sometimes competitive endeavor.
Red River has a broad spectrum of wares to keep the vacation shopper and souvenir hunters happy as little clams: from fine paintings, photos and sculpture to colorful T-shirts and fashionable dresses, coats, sweaters - it does get chilly at night - and hats galore, as well as fine jewelry and native american crafts.
• Take a walk by the river. It's easy because the river runs through the entire village, not far from anywhere in town. The banks are walker-friendly in most spots and there is a wonderful riverwalk section located by the Conference Center. Just a reminder that some of the riverbank is on private land. Don't be an ogre: show courtesy. Don't intrude where home owners would prefer their privacy.
Actually, walking is a great way to see the town as well. Red River is slightly longer than a mile from east end to west and the valley isn't very wide in most places. There are many historic buildings in town and interesting sights like the Red River Ski Area lifts, the Little Red Schoolhouse and the historic Red River Community House, a center of community social activities for over sixty years.
It is wise to be alert while walking, for wildlife may also be out for a stroll. Deer are a most common sight and bears do make town appearances day or night. Enjoy the encounter but keep your distance.
• Go on a Surrey Ride around town. These four-wheeled pedal-powered vehicles are a perfect way to see the town and have some fun. You know what they say: The family that pedals together... You can also rent individual mountain bikes and explore the deer trails and old mining roads on your own.
• If foot travel or pedaling isn't your style, 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 heydays 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. Please 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. Also please respect private property and stay out of people's yards.
