One of the most popular attractions to photograph near Taos is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. Combined with the beauty of the Rio Grande River cutting through the Gorge and the engineering feat of the bridge, it’s a true wonder to see. Discover our tips for photographing the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.
About the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
Often just referred to as the Gorge Bridge, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is the second-highest bridge within the U.S. Highway system. On its way to Mexico, the Rio Grande River passes through the Rio Grande Gorge, an 800-foot chasm made all the more dramatic by its sudden appearance amid the desert landscape northwest of Taos. Plain on the surface, this area’s history is shown by the gorge’s layered rock formations and spectacular scenery.
A trip to the Gorge is a must-do while visiting Taos—and that includes a drive across the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. This engineering marvel spans the gorge in a graceful 600-foot arc no less majestic than its surroundings. It was even awarded “Most Beautiful Steel Bridge” by an American institute the year after construction finished!
Look for a rest area on the west side. Here you’ll find space to pull off with food vendors, picnic tables, and a switchback trail into the gorge. You can also head southward up to nine miles along the West Rim Trail, which offers further views of the whitewater rapids and rock formations below.
Photographing the bridge
While pictures don’t really do this place justice with its expansive landscape and sheer size of the bridge, hard to capture in a photo, it is still one of the most popular landmarks to photograph in the Southwest. To capture the bridge and gorge with mountains in the background, most position themselves at the lookout area beside the rest area on the west side of the bridge. Late afternoon is the best time to shoot the bridge with the mountains in the background.
Some fun vantage points include taking some of the hiking trails along the rim. Here you can find multiple lookout points, both closer and further away from the bridge. Another great shot is capturing the bridge from either end, or walking across to get some shots above the river.
Sunrise or sunset?
Some would say sunrise is the best time to capture some epic photos. While others will tell you sunset. Really, both times of the day are equally beautiful. Depending on when you shoot, in the morning or evening, you can enjoy the show from either side of the bridge. The possibilities are endless! Try to avoid photographing in the harsh sunlight during the middle of the day. This often results in washed-out colors and extreme shadows, particularly in the Gorge itself.
At less than 20 minutes by car from the Hotel La Fonda de Taos, the Rio Grande Gorge and Bridge is a free stop in Taos that all visitors can enjoy. Make this destination a part of your next stay with our Taos hotel!
Stay at Hotel La Fonda de Taos
Of course, one of the best ways to relax in Taos is with a stay at Hotel La Fonda. We feature beautifully decorated rooms, suites, and a luxurious penthouse! Our accommodations feature exceptional amenities such as a fireplace or a Kiva, pillow-top mattresses, and comfortable bedding. Plus, with our location in the Taos Plaza, it’s easy to get around town and walk to restaurants, shops, and art galleries. So grab your camera and book your Taos vacation with us at Hotel La Fonda!
