I mentioned last week that I’d camped near the Rio Chama but didn’t show you any photos of the river itself. It’s small, it’s modest, it’s little-known outside New Mexico — and it’s one of the most beautiful rivers I’ve ever seen. The land it cuts through isn’t too shabby either.
The photo above was taken from the Skull Bridge.1 There’s a locked gate at its entrance which means the public can’t drive across it. However, since it’s part of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), anyone can walk across it. I crossed it a number of times last month in pursuit of the perfect photo.2
The second photo was taken from a bluff over the river not too far south of the Skull Bridge. I think this part of the Rio Chama valley is one of the most beautiful areas in all of New Mexico.
I swear I did not make up that name.
No such thing, but a girl can always dream … right?
Back in the day we would do a three-day float of the Chama with an all-female outfitter called Chama Mamas. Agree it’s one of the most striking landscapes in NM.
this looks pretty perfect to me!