Red River is a small mountain community, lush with green surroundings and a laid-back environment. Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it features beautiful terrain with forests, rivers, and high ground.

This town is unique because it is not seasonal, and any type of tourist will be able to find something they would like. During the winter, the place attracts skiers and snowboarders. Whereas during the summer, there is always an opportunity to go fishing and hiking.

The town has a traditional and native outlook with diverse shops and restaurants, and friendly people. Among the various Red River NM activities, we have compiled a list of 20 things to do in Red River New Mexico:

1. Enjoy Fly Fishing In The Red River

One of the recreational activities that affects visitors in New Mexico is fly fishing along the River of Red. The Red River fishery is quite picturesque, with clear, cold water well suited to trout fish. This activity gives the person time to rest and feel the presence of the beautiful mountains.

The ideal fly-fishing areas are located along the river, and there are enhanced opportunities in the area around the town of Red River, which is situated in the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. Local guidance is also provided for those who do not know how to fish, and for this reason, it is easy for anyone to try.

2. Hike Scenic Trails

Hiking to Middle Fork Lake and Goose Lake trails are completely surrounded by mountain scenery with thick forests, babbling streams, and plenty of high-country views.

Middle Fork Lake is about a 4-mile round trip and gives the hiker a beautiful alpine lake where one can sit down, have a sandwich, and enjoy the calmness. Goose Lake is slightly more difficult with a loop trail of 11 miles, but at the end of the trail is a beautiful Goose Lake framed by high mountains and their reflection in the water.

Both trails include wildlife and wild flowers, as well as spectacular views of the landscape.

3. Hit The Slopes At Red River Ski & Summer Area

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Skiing and snowboarding should never be missed in this beautiful mountainous city. It has many different terrains, such that it caters to all who wish to ski, from those who are learning to those who are professionals.

The Red River Ski and Summer Area offers beautiful surrounding mountain ranges and good conditions for the different types and levels of ski runs. Another reason is the unconstrained and inviting atmosphere due to the small population of people as compared to large holiday resorts.

Also, it has comfortable modern lifts, equipment rentals, and ski schools for those who want to practice or improve their skills.

4. Take An ATV or Jeep Tour

Jeep touring is another exciting Red River New Mexico activities. It is a way of taking a break and experiencing the mountains and the forest in a fun and stimulating manner. It involves driving an ATV or Jeep on paths, which gives one a chance to feel, see, and absorb the outdoors, wildlife, and even old mining grounds.

Among the popular trails is the Greenie Peak Trail, from which breathtaking vistas of the area's uplands can be enjoyed, as the locality is the highest peak in the region. If you are interested in off-roading, you can hire an ATV or Jeep within the town, or take professional tour guides.

5. View The Mountains By Horseback Riding

Horseback riding takes place in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and it is an opportunity to go hiking on trails and be active outdoors in a unique way. It is also possible to find several local outfitters that offer guided horseback rides, making it easy for first-time users and experienced riders.

Some of these guided tours may have details concerning the wildlife and history of the place, which makes the tour informative as well. The rides could be short and could take anything from a few hours to the entire day, if that is your desire.

6. Mountain Biking On Challenging Trails

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The Red River town has different trails that cater to different classes of bikers, such as novice, intermediate, and advanced. The routes are located in mountainous areas, with splendid views of the forest and valleys along the routes.

Riding through rough terrain, smooth paths, and steep drops are some of the diverse terrains available in this town. Some multi-use mountain bike trails can be found starting at the Red River Ski and Summer Area and other trailheads in nearby forests.

If you wish for an organized tour, many outfitters in the area have bikes for rent, as well as professional tour guides.

7. Yoga In The Mountains

Among the various things to do in NM, self-liberation through yoga in the mountains is one of the relaxation services offered at Red River. It involves the use of yoga together with the beauty and coolness of nature, so it is quite rejuvenating both for the mind and the flesh.

They are mostly conducted in parks, gardens, or in a local center where sessions of yoga and exercising are conducted with a background of the natural environment. These classes can be for first-timers or those who have mastered most Asana.

People are usually accompanied by trainers who take you through the postures while you marvel at the picturesque scenery.

8. Explore Red River’s Art Galleries

Several galleries display paintings from local artists, sculptures, and other artworks and crafts. This is a perfect place to enjoy art and encourage youth and local talents at the same time. Of such galleries, the Art & Frame Gallery is at 106 E. Main Street. This is one of the local galleries that displays a mixture of artwork by both local and regional artists.

Other galleries, such as The Gallery of the Mountains, located at 10 N. Broadway, are typically focused on artwork related to mountains. Most of the galleries also hold art-related events, workshops, or exhibitions, which allow one to interact with the art community.

9. Play A Round of Disc Golf

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The disc golf course is located at Red River Ski & Summer Area. This course consists of 18 discs. The area features multiple targets where you aim for your disc to land. It uses a flying disc that bears a resemblance to a football.

Featuring a real natural landscape, the terrain of the course is picturesque and as diverse as it gets, comprising mountains, woods, and open land. It makes the game challenging and visually appealing.

Equipment rentals are at the ski area, so you do not have to come with your discs if you are just touring. Disc golf is possible only in the warmer months of the year.

10. Attend a Music Festival

Attending a music festival is consistently enjoyable in Red River. There are various chances to participate in country, bluegrass, rock, and folk music festivals in the town.

The Red River Music Festival, typically taking place in the summer, is likely the most famous event. This festival is observed in Red River primarily at the winter ski area or the town plaza, both situated in the town center.

The events feature live band performances, band competitions, food vendors, and handmade craft booths, creating a lively and youthful atmosphere.

11. Have Fun Snow Tubing

If you are wondering what to do in Red River NM, then tubing is a popular winter activity to try. The Red River Ski & Summer Area features a tubing hill where visitors can enjoy it. The tubing location is positioned near the heart of the business district, at 400 Pioneer Road in Red River, NM.

Tubing is a new and uncomplicated activity; all one needs to do to snow tube is hop on an inflatable tube and slide down a snowy hill. The tubing lanes vary to create an enjoyable and secure experience for families. Visitors are usually able to take a gondola back to the top of the slope for transportation.

12. Visit The Red River Historical Museum

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This is one of those interesting museums that makes anyone who visits it learn a thing or two about Red River, New Mexico. Its physical address is W. Main Street, Red River, New Mexico, 87558.

The museum concerns the town's history, mining, and the lives of pioneers. The interior of the museum will show you photographs that seem to be dated, mining equipment and tools, and relics, among other items.

It is a very entertaining way of learning how this Red River has evolved through time. It is usually managed by members of the public who can tell the visitors some interesting facts about the artifacts.

13. Browse Local Shops For Unique Gifts

There are several stores in Red River where one may purchase gifts and trinkets. Main Street is where one of the most frequented places, The Candy Crate, can be found. This adorable store features all kinds of candies, from the traditional ones to the regional ones.

Plainfield has a cute store called Red River Trading Post, which is also located on Main Street. As for something to look at, their store includes jewelry, pottery, and home decorations, all made by artists in the area.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, The Mountain Adventure Shop supplies and wears. Without doubt, this is a must-do Red River New Mexico things to do.

14. Stop By Red River Miner’s Market

The Red River Miner’s Market is a colorful occasion, mostly available during the summer and early autumn. It is traditionally held in the Central Park or Red River Community House, depending on the weather conditions or time of year.

There are sellers offering fruits and vegetables, homemade items, and other accessories and trinkets made by residents. The market has become popular for shopping for local products, eating local delicacies, and social interaction.

Now and then, there are usually live music performances together with activities that will interest the young ones, making it a family affair.

15. Feel The Thrill of Zip Lining

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16. Explore The Nearby Carson National Forest

Exploring the wilderness and wildlife of the Carson National Forest near the town is another splendid feature of the place. Just a short drive east of Red River, New Mexico, the Carson National Forest covers a large amount of territory with its green-filled forest areas, steep mountains, and clear, sparkling streams.

This is an ideal spot for hikers, campers, and even a simple observer of the wild animals. It is possible to take a number of trails, the Williams Lake Trail or the Middle Fork Trail.

These trails offer scenic vistas as well as locations where the local wildlife, including elk, deer, and numerous species of birds, is most likely to appear.

17. Ride The Red River's Scenic Chairlift

Taking a ride on the scenic chairlift is among the exciting things to do in Red River New Mexico since it is relatively easy and the views of the beautiful landscapes of the mountains are mesmerizing.

When on the chairlift, you are likely to view giant meadows, green trees, and other parts of the town and Mount Baldy. It is a very enjoyable leisure activity for visitors to engage in, whichever time of the year they visit.

While zip-lining is a thrilling adventure where the participant is suspended on a cable and moved throughout the air, the scenic chairlift, on the other hand, is slow-moving and comfortable, allowing you to observe the scenery while in the air.

18. Enjoying A Day At The Red River Hot Springs

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These particular hot springs are naturally occurring, situated in a beautiful mountain range, and are only a few miles away from the town of Red River. The environment surrounding the springs is scenic, with attractive views of the mountain and a forested environment, making the environment serene.

To access the hot springs most of the time, one has to trek for a few hours. Due to its natural hot springs, which are located in the Red River, and murmuring water, the Red River Hot Springs deserve to be one of the most visited destinations for relaxation amidst nature.

19. Take A Scenic Drive On Highway 38

This scenic drive connects Eagle Nest to the Red River and is widely acknowledged for its fine and stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Thus, you will find forests, clear rivers, beautiful mountains, and other natural beauties on the way.

The drive is most scenic in the fall when the foliage turns red and gold, but it offers scenic vistas any time of the year. It’s possible to pull off in several places to take photos or videos, have a meal, or simply enjoy the view.

The drive can be used by vehicles of any format: cars, buses, three-wheelers, etc.

20. Relaxing At The Red River Community House

Situated at 100 E. Main St., Red River, New Mexico, the center engages in several social activities, family functions, and entertainment. They include art classes, music concerts, three or four movies shown in the auditorium of the Community House each week, or other programs offered by the center.

It is an open space where people, whether residents of the town or guests, can communicate with each other and have a good time. Moreover, one can find out more about the customs of the town.

The friendly environment and various activities make it interesting things to do in Red River for anyone who wants to get a feel for the togetherness of society.