About Us

Quiet Waters Paddling Adventures was born from a passion for the middle Rio Grande, and the desire to share that passion with others.

After arriving in the Albuquerque area in 2007, Michael Hayes (our “Chief Executive Guide”), quickly discovered the middle Rio Grande and fell in love with its beauty and the serenity it provided. Having arrived with two canoes (a solo and a tandem), he soon found himself introducing others to the river. The feedback he received - from both locals and tourists – led him to open QWPA in the summer of 2009. (The watercolor on this page was a gift from Carolyn Lewis, whose enthusiasm for a trip in early 2009 encouraged us to pursue our passion professionally). As we’ve embarked upon our journey, that positive feedback has continued. We’re encouraged by, and grateful for, the response and support we’ve received.

As one can easily discern by a perusal of our website, we’re highly conscious of the safety issues involved in paddlesports. We’re members of both the American Canoe Association and the Professional Paddlesports Association, and adhere to the best practices for paddlesports providers as advocated by each of these organizations.

With 34 boats (9 tandem canoes, 23 assorted kayaks and 2 solo canoes), we’re able to accommodate over 40 people on the water at any given time, not including kids floating along with adults. So whether you’re looking to just get away from the daily stresses of life with family or friends for a few hours, or whether you’re looking for a unique opportunity for your business or organization, please give us a call. You’ll be happy you did!

How to find us:

We’re located at 105 D Pleasant View Drive, Bernalillo, New Mexico, 87004. (Google Maps)

From Albuquerque or Santa Fe via I-25:

Take Exit 242 (Hwy 550). Travel west approximately ½ mile to Camino del Pueblo (Hwy 313). Turn right (north) and drive ½ mile. Pleasant View Drive is immediately past a small party store on the right (“The Country Store”). Turn right onto Pleasant View, then take the first drive on the right into our parking lot.

From Farmington/Rio Rancho:

Take Hwy 550 east. Once you’ve passed over the Rio Grande, look for the second traffic light, Camino del Pueblo (Hwy 313). Turn left (north) and drive ½ mile. Pleasant View Drive is immediately past a small party store on the right (“The Country Store”). Turn right onto Pleasant View, then take the first drive on the right into our parking lot.