The Los Pinos River, also known as the Pine River, is a scenic and challenging waterway that originates high in Colorado's San Juan Mountains and flows south into northern New Mexico. This river system spans approximately 150 miles from its headwaters near the Continental Divide to its confluence with the San Juan River at Navajo Lake. The upper reaches of the Los Pinos offer expert paddlers some of the most remote and intense whitewater in Colorado.

The river's journey begins in the Weminuche Wilderness, where it carves through steep gorges with continuous Class V rapids, sieves, and waterfalls. This section, often combined with Upper Vallecito Creek, provides a multi-day wilderness paddling experience only suitable for highly skilled kayakers and packrafters. As the Los Pinos exits the wilderness, it flows into Vallecito Reservoir. Below the dam, the river continues south through a mix of public and private lands, offering Class III-IV paddling opportunities. This middle section provides a more accessible experience for intermediate paddlers, with scenic canyons and good trout fishing.

Crossing into New Mexico, the river's character changes, becoming gentler with Class II-III rapids. This lower section is suitable for canoeists and less experienced kayakers, culminating at Navajo Lake. The New Mexico stretch offers beautiful desert scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife like moose and elk.

The Los Pinos' flow is heavily influenced by snowmelt, with peak runoff typically occurring in late May to early June. Late summer and fall provide lower water levels ideal for fishing, while winter paddling is limited due to ice and cold temperatures.

Key access points include the remote put-ins in the Weminuche Wilderness, Vallecito Reservoir, and various points along the Colorado-New Mexico border. The towns of Bayfield and Ignacio in Colorado, and Aztec in New Mexico, serve as the nearest population centers.

For multi-day trips, the upper wilderness section offers a challenging 3-4 day expedition. Below Vallecito Reservoir, paddlers can plan 2-3 day trips through the lower canyons and into New Mexico. Paddlers should be aware of private property issues, especially in the middle sections, and obtain necessary permits for wilderness travel. The river's remote nature in its upper reaches demands self-sufficiency and proper safety equipment.

The Los Pinos River played a significant role in the settlement and irrigation of the region, and its waters continue to be vital for agriculture and recreation. Today, it offers adventurers a diverse range of paddling experiences, from extreme wilderness challenges to scenic floats, all set against the backdrop of the stunning San Juan Mountains and high desert landscapes.