Take this beautiful, scenic, and popular run through the Rio Grande Bosque from the Angostura/Algodones Diversion Dam down to North Corrales. This is an easy run, ranging from Class I - II with only a few hazards present including some tree strainers & jetty jacks, but they are usually easily avoidable, and sometimes not present when water is high enough. The run is suitable for kayaks and canoes and rafts may be alright too, just be sure to scout first.

Navajo Lake is New Mexico's 2nd largest lake, and a great one to get out and explore! There are two boat ramps to chose from, with the Pine Recreation Area being the largest and most developed (the Sims Mesa ramp is located opposite the lake and is accessible via Highway 527). Take your time to explore all the nooks and crannies of this lake - be aware that it is open to motorized boats, and the winds can kick up pretty quick, so if you are out in the open waters keep an eye out for waves and headwinds. The shorelines are all fantastic to explore and the lake is home to a bounty of fish - so bring your pole! There are also a number of camping options, both primitive and developed. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle and an $8 - $10 fee per night of camping.

Just below Heron Lake State Park, lies El Vado Reservoir, another great boating destination. One of the most beautiful areas of the lake to explore is the north end, accessible via the north El Vado Boat Ramp. This ramp and this route are only available during when the water is high and boating conditions are excellent. Pop your canoe or kayak in here and explore a few miles up the canyon of the Rio Chama. There are a number of primitive camping sites available in the canyon that do not require a fee. This area is also listed as a no-wake area, so it should be calm and peaceful. Great place for birdwatching and easily navigable. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle.

If you are up for an amazing fishing trip, and want to do it by canoe or kayak, head down to Navajo Lake State Park, below the dam. Considered one of the best fisheries, this section of the state park and San Juan River are only open to those who are fishing. Even if all you want to do is paddle around, bring your fishing rod & license and you'll be allowed to put your boat in. This trip starts with your boat in at Texas hole and floats down towards the Cottonwood Recreation area. There are a number of nooks and crannies to explore and it can get up to a Class II, so be prepared. Most of it is easy paddling however, and there are a number of campsites along the river. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle and an $8 fee per night of camping.

Heron Lake is ideal for canoeing & kayaking. This is a big lake, 5900 acres, and there are a number of recommended routes to take your boat, with the East/West Lake Exploratory Camp route being a great opportunity to hone your navigational & open water skills. This option is for more seasoned boaters, as you will experience long distance and open waters. Be sure to check the weather before you make the trip so that you can expect the winds, and you can file a float plan with the park rangers, in case of emergency. You will put in at the Willow Creek launch ramp and make your way over to the west side primitive camping sites. After spending the night (or however long you wish), continue your trip along the south side of the lake back up to where you started in the narrow. Motorized boats are allowed at Herons Lake, but there is a no-wake mandate. There is a $5 per vehicle entrance fee and an $8/night camping fee for the primitive sites.

Start your kayaking adventure at Percha Dam State Park, heading down to Leasburg Dam State Park (and you can always continue further from there, see Leasburg Dam to Shalem Colony Trail). At your put in point, just below Percha Dam, it is considered to be one of the 5 best birding spots in all of New Mexico. So take some time and enjoy! Just below the Road 154 bridge, between Rincon and Hatch, there is a fast water drop, caused by deposited material. Depending on water levels, this may need to be portaged (on the west side of the river, due to slopes). Scout this before heading down so you know what you are in for. At any of the bridge crossings, there may be strainers due to debris build up, check these out as well before you begin. Otherwise, this is a mellow and relaxing river run. $5 entrance fee per vehicle (at each park).

Head out to Caballo Lake State Park the next time you want to get away from it all. This lake is far less populated than the nearby Elephant Butte Lake State Park, and the northern end of the lake is superb for wildlife viewing. The best birdwatching for canoes and kayaks is from October - February, where you may see bald eagles, herons, cormorants, and many more. Keep an eye out for mammals too, like beavers and badgers, as they frequent the area. The entire lake is open to paddlesports, but there are no restrictions on motorboats. Winds can also kick up quickly so keep an eye out for the wind warning lights. When the water levels are low, the lake is much smaller, and the northern section may not be accessible. Also see the Rio Grande River Run from Elephant Butte to Caballo lake. $5 entrance fee per vehicle.

Located at almost 10,000 feet, the Canjilon Lakes in the Carson National Forest offer scenic beauty galore. There are a number of these lakes (although this route just shows two options) which offer the perfect opportunity for some lazy paddling and fishing in peace and quiet. There is also a large campground available, to make it a nice weekend excursion. You will be surrounded by forest as well as having fantastic views of Canjilon Mountain at your fingertips.

Lake Maloya makes for an awesome spring or fall canoe/kayaking trip, with a bounty of birds to be seen! This 130-acre lake, right by the Colorado border, lies within Sugarite Canyon State Park. There are no motorized boats allowed on the lake, leaving the paddlers with peace and solitude. Swimming is not allowed in the lake, due to the fact that the City of Raton uses it for their drinking water. Because it is used for drinking and not irrigation, that keeps the lakes levels fairly consistent, so you should know what you are getting in to. Tons of birds call this lake home, both while migrating through or year-round. In addition, you can catch glimpses of local wildlife on the shores. There is a $5 entrance fee per vehicle and campsites are $10/night.

Fenton Lake is a beautiful high mountain lake surrounded by coniferous forest in the Jemez Mountains. This lake is popular for fishing a paddle sports, as the only motorized boats that are allowed are those with electric trolling motors. The lake is surrounded by high ridges on all sides, which negates the impact of any wind, so it will be an easy ride. There are many campsites located down the Rio Cebolla if you wish to make it a weekend trip. $5 entrance fee per vehicle.