Hazard Warning: Hazard information may be user-submitted and unverified. Conditions change frequently. Always scout rapids and obstacles yourself.
Playspot NM Class III

Souse Hole

Rio Grande - 07. Quartzite River Access to County Line River Access (NM)

Monitor this Rapid
Gauge Conditions
Rio Grande below Taos Junction Bridge near Taos, NM Upstream Primary
Runnable: 200.0 – 3,000.0 CFS

Flows of 250 cfs are ok for floating from sleeping beauty to Souse hole without dragging.

Data from American Whitewater & USGS
Photo
Souse Hole
Photo courtesy of American Whitewater
Description

One of the more famous rapids on the run, as it offers a solid splash at even the lowest river levels. At low to moderate flows Souse is ran usually down the left channel. Rafts can surf the hole at the bottom of the last drop at low flows. At high flows the rapid creates a near river-wide massive hole renowned for flipping boats. Boaters looking to avoid the huge wave can sneak the rapid along the left shore. At all flows be mindful of currents coming off the left shore that may push your boat too far into the center of the river into a large rock or hole, depending on flow. A trail comes down from the road to the pool at the bottom of Souse. The rapid is easily scouted from the road.

This is the photo rapid for the Racecourse's commerical rafting trip due to its omnipresent top hole and easy road access. Be aware of commercial rafts spreading out in the long area of slackwater before this rapid.

Location
Type
Playspot
Difficulty
Class III
Mile Marker
3.4 mi
Directions
Navigate
View Full Run
07. Quartzite River Access to County Line River Access
Rio Grande
III 4.4 mi
Current Conditions
5-Day Forecast
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater