The Santa Elena Canyon is the most inspiring natural feature in Big Bend National Park. It is visible from more than 10 miles away, cutting through the mountains via a deep, narrow gorge. Santa Elan Canyon is quite a long distance of 30 miles; however, a short nature trail enters its shady depths, eight miles west of Castolon, accessible by either Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive or the Old Maverick Road. Some are really quite winding and steep.
Santa Elena Canyon downstream is the most popular area for one- to three-day trips, easily accessed by car. It is often considered the most dramatic place and has the tallest cliffs, forming the canyon wall up to 1500 feet. The nature trail that crosses Terlingua Creek, climbs several flights of ramps and stairs, and then descends into the canyon along the Rio Grande offers one of the few remaining true wilderness river trips in the United States. Side canyons create interesting vistas as well as exploration opportunities.
Moreover, the area has an extremely dry and hot climate, with temperatures up to 50 °C in summer with little rain. Further, there is a contrast between the desert and cold-tempered ecosystems. You should keep in mind that during the rainy season, Terlingua Creek can flood and make access extremely difficult, so it is a nice idea to check with Park Rangers for current conditions. Local outfitters offer various trips when conditions allow, and river runners of intermediate or better skill levels often go on their own.
Hence, water flow is normally adequate for river trips, except during periods of prolonged drought. In addition, beware of flash floods that can raise the river level and flow rates very rapidly after rainfall in the drainage basin, even if it does not rain at the river. The low levels of water can prevent you from rafting along the canyon, which is a very popular activity here.
Even a short distance is worthwhile; the canyon feels much more remote and undisturbed once around the first bend, when the entrance is out of view. Also, stargazing is a relaxing activity here, as on the clearest nights, around 2,000 stars are visible to the naked eye. It is an outstanding place in North America for stargazing.
Santa Elena Canyon is majestic; the towering canyon walls are much taller than in Colorado Canyon, upriver a few miles. The scenery is remarkable, and there are numerous opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking in shady side canyons, and camping on spacious sandbars.
The best way to see the canyon is by raft or canoe. Another scenic, little-visited location is Fern Canyon, 18 miles below Lajitas, a narrow tributary just two miles from Santa Elena Canyon. This is very narrow and has a pretty white limestone floor, polished smooth by the waters that sometimes flood down the ravine. It is truly a majestic and gorgeous place to spend a few days. Due to the inaccessibility of the area, it is generally best to be well prepared for any and all weather possibilities.
The drive up to Santa Elena Canyon is absolutely breathtaking, and once you park and start walking towards the canyon, your jaw just drops at the sheer majesty of it. Definitely a Big Bend must-see or do the hike. It is the most photographed part of Bing Bend National Park. There is a massive boulder on the trail the size of a small house that is nice to sit under on a hot day. The rock formations rising on each side of the Rio are mesmerizing.
It is highly suggested to visit the canyon in early November through mid-March. Which is generally the best time to paddle the Rio Grande? The area may be very crowded during holiday periods or during the winter “snowbird” season, which is also the time most likely to have favorable paddling conditions. Summertime low-water conditions may be inadequate for rafting, but canoes can almost always navigate the river. Moreover, entrance permits to Big Bend National Park are required for all vehicles entering the park for river access.
Also, riverside camping is available just outside the canyon on the left side of the river and the right side of the Mexican. The ankle-deep Bermuda grass covers the ground, making for a softer night’s sleep. Firewood is scarce, if available at all, so carry what you need. Except for campfires, it is generally best to rely on propane, butane, or liquid fuel fires for cooking, personal hygiene, and other general heating and cooking needs. Please keep in mind that a fine may be imposed for camping in unauthorized areas.
The Santa Elena Canyon location is in the middle of the continent and along a migration route, which is ideal for bird diversity throughout the year. Northern species migrate here for the warm winter climate, while birds from the tropics range this far north to breed in the spring. One of the major highlights is the Colima warbler, which is a predominately Mexican species that only nests in the United States in the Chisos Mountains from April to September.
The Santa Elena Canyon River Trip is more complicated in the last seven miles while entering the actual canyon. You can enjoy it by paddling upstream from the Santa Elena Canyon Trailhead, just a few miles into the canyon, and then coming back down the stream. There are a couple of rapids to watch out for, and the famed Rockslide can provide a challenge for even experienced professionals. Santa Elena Canyon offers dazzling coves and remarkable side canyons that are a veritable feast for your eyes and your camera. So be sure to carry plenty of extra batteries. You may not want to leave Santa Elena Canyon.
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Source: Visit Big Bend / NPS / American South West /