About Santa Fe

In and around El Vado Ranch, rainbow and brown trout inhabit the many holes, pools and ripples of the nearby lakes and streams. In fact, this part of the Rio Chama is spectacular and it is not uncommon to hook an 18-20 inch trout.

At El Vado, we have just about everything you'll need for a hunting or fishing trip, a family vacation, or a quiet getaway in the beautiful mountains of northern New Mexico. El Vado Lake, only a short drive away, is a great place for boating, water skiing, or swimming... and fishing. There are many interesting hiking trails in the area and (if you dare) you can cross over the river on the famous SWINGING BRIDGE.

For an exciting adventure on the whitewater, try rafting the Rio Chama. El Vado Ranch is the official "put in" site for the river, which has class II and III rated rapids.

The scenic Chama River flows from El Vado Ranch for 32 miles through the Rio Chama Canyon on its way to the Rio Grande. Heron Lake, Abiquiu Reservoir, the Santa Fe National Forest, the Carson National Forest, and the historic Village of Chama are all close to El Vado Ranch.

Ten beautiful log cabins are located within the 100 acre El Vado Ranch. All cabins are completely equipped for housekeeping and cooking. Our store is stocked with fishing supplies, food and snack items.