The Hidden Southwest
14 Secrets of the Southwest

National Geographic Adventure, March 3, 2008
by Christopher Ketcham

The classic three-day raft trip between El Vado and Abiquiu on the airbrushed Chama River (think multicolored sandstone canyons, old-growth ponderosa stands, and meadows blazing with purple asters) hardly needs an infomercial-style bonus offer. But act now and Taos-based Los Rios River Runners will arrange for an astronomer, archaeologist, gourmet chef, sommelier, local-lore storyteller, yoga instructor, or—new for 2008—herbalist to accompany its guests ($510; losriosriverrunners.com). Book your star of choice and float past perfect swimming holes, Class III rapids, 1,500-vermilion cliffs, and ancient dwellings, which have never heard the buzz of motors or cell phones. Each evening rafters soak up tutorials in stargazing, wine tasting, or the finer points of edible herbs.