Wild Rivers is in north-central New Mexico about 25 miles north of Taos and 17 miles south of the Colorado state line. The scenic byway begins in Cerro and travels south alongside the Rio Grande River through the Wild Rivers Recreation Area. It is 13 miles long and follows Wild Rivers Road, which is also known as NM 378. The road is a two-lane paved road suitable for all types of vehicles. Wild Rivers is not maintained during winter; heavy snow may restrict access.
Wild Rivers Back Country Byway is a pleasant drive along the Rio Grande River around the Guadalupe Mountains. The byway crosses a landscape covered with sagebrush and stands of pinyon and juniper. The byway takes you to a point overlooking the confluence of the Rio Grande River and Red River, some 800 feet beneath you. The Guadalupe Mountains rise above the desert floor to the east. A hiking trail can be accessed from the byway that will take you into these rugged mountains. Several scenic overlooks are also provided along the byway that give you the chance to gaze at the river flowing way down below.
There are trails along the byway that will take you down the gorge to the river’s edge. Here you may wish to cast a line in hopes of finding a brown trout attached to the other end. There are campgrounds located along the river’s edge if you discover that you need to spend some more time trying to pull the fish from the water.
Those not interested in fishing can spend the day looking for wildlife. There are plenty of species inhabiting the area. Mule deer can often be seen along the roadside foraging among the grass. Red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures may be spotted flying over the canyon rims, almost effortlessly floating upon the wind currents. Cold winter snow forces the beautiful elk from higher elevations to the lower in search of food.
Travelers of the byway will find plenty of opportunities for pitching a tent or parking your RV. Some campgrounds are situated on the rim of the gorge, while others are along the river’s edge. Campfire programs are offered from Memorial Day through Labor Day.