Rio Chama Shoreline

As we drive along the shoreline of the river, we can’t help but stop from time to time, just to enjoy watching the river.  At this point, the river always seems to look rather muddy – probably because it’s just come from flowing thru the dam which created Abiquiu Lake, upon whose shores we were camped.  The dam seems to draw the water from the bottom of the lake as it creates power.  Since it’s drawing from the lake bottom, we can’t be surprised the water looks somewhat muddy!

Rio Chama Shoreline

There’s a small picnic area along the river that is generally one of our first stops.  The stop serves two purposes – we get to enjoy being so close to the rushing river, and Miki gets her first chance to do some exploring along the river.  Thank goodness she’s smart enough not to go into the river at this point, because the current is very strong!

Chama River Rapids

In this image, you can really get a feel for how strong that current is.  The water just rushes over this very low series of rocks.  Often, we see a fisherman on the shore casting his line out to the area just at the base of the rocks.  I’m not certain what type of fish are in the river, but I know there are some, as often we see heron also fishing in this area.

Movie Scene

A couple of years ago when we last visited the area, the movie, The Magnificent Seven, was filming here.  This area was the scene of a mining camp.   Nice to see the movie company restored the area to its natural beauty when they left.  Too bad the scenery was better than the movie, tho.

Tree along Rio Chama

I just love the way this tree looks along the shore of the river, with some beautiful blue sky as a perfect backdrop.  Off to the right, just barely in view, is the edge of what looked to be a campfire ring made up of river rock.  I don’t think camping is truly allowed in this area, but if someone pitched a tent for one night, I don’t think this area is patrolled enough to catch them.  Stolen pleasures!

Along the Rio Chama

This view is from a bit further down the river.  Altho the current isn’t quite as visible as it was along the rock line, you can still see the texture in the water that tells you it’s moving along very quickly!  That cholla cactus in the foreground isn't quite ready to bloom yet – soon, tho, the tips will be covered with either bright pink or yellow blooms.  Don’t get too close, tho – those cactus needles seem to have little magnets in them, and if one gets too close, they seem to practically leap off the plant to stick to you – ouch!

Enjoy!