3041 E Main St Farmington, NM

505-599-1174

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Welcome to the Gatewave

Designed for both beginners and seasoned river surfers, this dynamic water feature delivers consistent flow, fun challenges, and an exciting way to experience Farmington’s outdoor recreation scene. Whether you're looking to surf, paddle, or watch the action from the riverbank, Gatewave offers a unique and energizing experience right in the heart of Northwest New Mexico.

Please be aware that construction of the feature was completed during the summer of 2025. It can take some time for conditions to stabilize amidst the range of river conditions. The wave's performance continues to be fine-tuned. An excessive rain and flooding event in October of 2025 impacted the gravel bar. The City of Farmington is aware of this and is waiting for conditions to become optimal for the repair work. Visit the USGS National Water Dashboard and check out the live cam for current conditions.

Where Is the Gatewave Located?

Gatewave is located along the Animas River, behind the Farmington Museum & Visitor Center at 3041 E Main Street. Parking and the access trail are on the northeast side of the Farmington Museum & Visitor Center. 

What to Expect at the Gatewave River Surfing Feature

Gatewave is a professionally engineered, adjustable whitewater wave designed for river surfing and boogie boarding. Depending on river flow, the wave can offer:

• A clean, surfable standing wave
• Rolling water ideal for bodyboarding
• A great spot to watch surfers in action

Whether you’re stepping onto a river surfboard for the first time or looking to sharpen your skills, Gatewave provides multiple levels of fun and challenge.

Who Can Surf the Gatewave?

Gatewave is designed with accessibility and progression in mind. It welcomes:

• First-time river surfers wanting a safe place to learn
• Intermediate surfers building skills and testing new maneuvers
• Advanced riders looking for consistent, play-friendly water
• Bodyboarders and river enthusiasts seeking a new way to enjoy the Animas

Local outfitters and experienced surfers recommend that users have basic swimming proficiency, familiarity with moving water, and appropriate gear before hopping on the wave.

Gear & Safety Recommendations

River surfing is rewarding but requires the right equipment and respect for the river. It is important to note that the Gatewave is unsupervised. Please recreate responsibly. 

For a safe and fun experience:

• Use a river-specific surfboard or bodyboard
• Bring a buddy; surfing with others adds an important layer of safety
• Wear a helmet and personal flotation device (PFD)
• Proper footwear with grip is ideal
• Never use an ankle leash in moving water 
• Cold-water gear during shoulder seasons

Flows on the Animas River change throughout the year, which affects wave behavior. Always check conditions, use caution, and never surf alone.

Best Time to Visit Gatewave

Gatewave can be surfed year-round, depending on water flows. The surf wave forms between 400 and 3,500 cfs. Conditions are often best:

• Spring through early summer with snowmelt-driven flows
• After summer rains, when river levels rise
• During shoulder seasons for smaller, more beginner-friendly surf

Visit the USGS National Water Dashboard and select Animas River at Penny Lane for the current water flow conditions upstream from the feature. A live camera view of the Gatewave is also available on YouTube.

Know Before You Go

Before heading to Gatewave, keep these visitor tips in mind:

• Check river conditions before entering the water
• Use designated river access points to protect riverbanks and habitat
• Never leave trash behind—help us keep the Animas River clean
• Be mindful of other river users
• Observe posted signage and follow all safety guidance
• Supervise children closely, especially near fast-moving water

Farmington is committed to creating safe recreation opportunities. Your stewardship helps ensure Gatewave remains an exceptional place for locals and visitors.

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