Rio Colorado. (Moderate to difficult)

NB I started to add waypoints on the way back once I knew where I was going. There are a few crossings missing but most are obvious.

This is a beautiful trail following the Rio Colorado, through its canyon ending in a spectacular waterfall with many smaller ones along the way. Although you can walk from Cafayate to the trail head you can also take a taxi for 50 pesos. Walking will add around another 10km to the trail.

Once at the trail head you have to sign in. Then follow the (mostly dry) riverbed up to a fork and take the right hand fork. Keep right following the river irrigation/diversion system. The man made irrigation ends and you start to follow the river.

This trail although short can be tricky in places and isn't particularly well marked. There are numerous crossings to be made all fairly simple. Just keep an eye out for footprints and the trail ahead.

There is one relatively difficult/dangerous section as you reach the first large waterfall. At this point (marked risk) you have to pass high over the canyon and drop down the otherside. The path isn't really clear but it's there. Take care on this ascesnt. In only takes a few minutes but it's steep and in small parts gravelly. After this you can drop down the otherside. And continue up to the end of the trail.

This is a short trail and rewarding, however it does require good mobility as there is a fair amount of crag hopping and scrambling to be done. For those less confident in there ability of hiking it is possible to take a local guide from the trail head. As with every river bed hike always consider the weather currents and river heights can change daily sometimes making vital crossing points difficult and dangerous. Enjoy this beautiful hike and don't forget take time to check out the little waterfalls along the way.