"My son, Neal, and I had a terrific two day trip despite the rain last
night. We had a blast. Very memorable. Dan & Ed worked hard (successfully) to ensure that the rain never had a chance of dampening our spirits. They were really terrific. All meals were amazing. their culinary skills equaled their guiding abilities. At camp, we dined for over two hours, then Dan topped it off by baking a delicious spice cake in a dutch oven on the coals! Even had frosting... Thanks!!"
Cindy Hulme
Clifton, TX
"Eight months after my trip down the river I still hear the whitewater, feel the paddle in my hands, smell the sage growing between the boulders, see the eagles floating overhead and taste the scent of the summer rains that cooled the hot afternoons in a land that truly is enchanted. These are only a few of the many reasons why I'll be back next year."
James Navé
Asheville, NC
"A dream come true for us first-timer Dallas suburbanite knuckleheads. I felt like we were on National Geographic Explorer, not just watching it on tv. The Los Rios people showed us a unique glimpse of nature and America that is vanishing, with an absolutely perfect chemistry of safety, fun, and total professional delivery. Got to do it again ... Viva Los Rios!"
Sterling Forsythe & family
Carrollton, TX
Middle Box Funyak Overnight Adventure
When the lower water of summer arrives in the Rio Grande Gorge, it's funyak time! With the water too low for rafts, only a funyak will take you into the heart of the wilderness: the spectacular Middle Box, remote and wild, alive with the cries of falcons and eagles, the air charged with diving cliff swallows and dragonflies. Your party will probably be the only humans you see for two days.
The adventure begins with a hike down to the river, where you find your funyaks waiting for you. (We start the overnight trip further upstream from where the Middle Box day trip starts.) First things first: a comprehensive lesson from your professional teaching guide, with all the practice time you need to feel comfortable with your craft before you face the long, challenging La Junta rapid. It's a dramatic start to the adventure – and will leave you with the feeling that if you can run that, you can do anything!
Day 1 ends with a hike up to the rim of the Gorge, where your overnight gear meets you. This is a very remote spot, with wide horizons stretching 360 degrees around you. Sleep under a vast dome of stars, and awaken to dawn over the awe-inspiring Sangre de Cristo mountains. Below you the Gorge stretches away, and another memorable day on the river, meandering through the pristine wilderness.
WHITEWATER RATING: Class 3 or 4 (depending on put-in)
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM AGE: 12 to paddle funyak; younger kids can ride with an experienced adult or a guide
MEET: 8.45 a.m., Los Rios boathouse (mile marker 40 on Hwy 68). Return to your vehicle approx. 3-4 p.m. on Day 2.
SEASON: Variable. Usually mid-July to early September.
PRICE: $339 adults, $289 children. Does not include tax and federal user fee. Group discount available on some launches.
WE PROVIDE: All rafting and safety equipment including life-jacket and helmet; waterproof jacket and pants; all camping equipment including freshly laundered sleeping bag, luxurious 1 ½-inch thick semi-inflatable sleeping pad, and one two-person tent per couple or single guest; transportation to and from meeting place and transportation of your personal items to the campsite; all meals from lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day. See below for sample menu.
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2-DAY OVERNIGHT: SAMPLE MENU
Day 1, lunch: chips and salsa, build-your-own sandwich deli-style buffet, fresh fruit, cookies, soft drinks
Day 1, dinner: hors d'oeuvres; mixed grill of steak, chicken and fish, rice, steamed vegetables, salad, freshly baked cake, soft drinks
Day 2, breakfast: omelets to order with choice of onions, ham, cheese, peppers, mushrooms, spinach; bacon or sausage; biscuits or tortillas; fresh fruit; orange juice, milk, tea and fresh-brewed coffee
Day 2, lunch: chips and salsa, chicken Caesar salad wraps, fresh fruit, cookies, soft drinks.
We are not licensed to serve alcoholic beverages. You are welcome to bring your own.
Major Rapids of the Wild Rio Grande 2-Day (MIDDLE BOX): |
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| La Junta |
Class 4 |
| Garrapata | Class 3 |
| Horse Thief Shorty | Class 3 |
| (plus many unnamed Class 2 rapids) | |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – MIDDLE BOX FUNYAK OVERNIGHT
What if I've never funyaked before?
We prefer participants to have some paddling experience: rafting, canoeing, or kayaking. You will need to be fit and adventurous.
Do I have to know how to swim?
Risk is higher for non-swimmers. You must be able to assist in your own rescue in the event you fall out of the boat.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Yes, helmets are compulsory for funyakers.
Can you run the Middle Box Overnight no matter what the water level is?
This is a trip we only run at low water levels.
Can my child go if he/she is below the recommended minimum age?
Maybe. It's a recommendation, not a rule. If your child is well-grown, adventurous, and a good swimmer, we will consider it. The Chama is preferable for younger children.
What if the weather's bad?
We don't cancel because of rain: usually it doesn't last long.
Do you have flush toilets and showers at your campsite?
No. We bring a "groover," with a toilet seat and sanitary supplies, which is set up in a screened area for privacy.
Is it a wilderness camp?
Not exactly. It's in a very remote area, accessed by a long dirt road. We bring the overnight gear in by van.
Does everyone camp together?
The campsites we use have many separate spots for pitching tents. It's easy to find privacy.
Will I be cold at night?
Not if you dress correctly. Polar fleece pants, top, and hat are recommended. The sleeping bags we provide are appropriate for the temperatures we’re most likely to encounter.
Do we have to sit on logs or on the ground?
No. We bring all kinds of stuff to make us comfortable: folding armchairs, tables, four-burner stove, etc.
Do I need to let you know if I'm bringing wine and/or beer?
Yes, please. That way we can make sure we have enough coolers to carry it.
What if I'm vegetarian?
Just let us know, and we'll cater accordingly. Vegans too. We can also provide all organic food (an extra charge will apply).
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