Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Santa Elena Canyon Trail (1.7 miles)
At the end of Ross Maxwell Scenic Dr (a long drive from most of the
park) is a short trail into a photogenic river canyon. You start by crossing Terlingua Creek, which could be wet or
muddy, so plan accordingly.
Backpacking
Big Bend's primitive backpacking routes range from well-traveled desert washes to the
truly challenging limestone uplifts of Mesa de Anguila and the Dead Horse Mountains.
Rangers say that because of the constantly changing trail and spring conditions, it's pretty
much impossible to plan an extended backpacking trip before you actually get to the park.
What you can do instead is figure out how much time you have and the distance you'd
like to cover and, based on that information, park staff will help you plot a trip. Many
trails require use of topographical maps and a compass.
Bird-Watching
Over 450 bird species have been spotted in the park; prime sites include Rio Grande Val-
ley, the Sam Nail Ranch, the Chisos Basin and Castolon near Santa Elena Canyon. The
Big Bend region may be best known for its peregrine falcons, which, while still en-
dangered, have been making a comeback. A dozen known nests are found within or near
the park.
Among other Big Bend bird celebrities, the Colima warbler has its only US nesting spot
in the Chisos Mountains, where it lives from April through mid-September. More com-
mon Big Bend species include golden eagles, cactus wrens, ravens, Mexican jays, road-
runners, acorn woodpeckers, canyon towhees and a whole bunch of warblers and hum-
mingbirds.
River Trips
The Rio Grande has earned its place among the top North American river trips for both
rafting and canoeing. Rapids up to class IV alternate with calm stretches that are perfect
for wildlife viewing, photography and just plain relaxation.
Trips on the river can range from several hours to several days.
Boquillas Canyon
is the
longest and most tranquil of the park's three canyons and is best for intermediate to ad-
vanced boaters and canoeists with camping skills.
Colorado Canyon
is just upriver from the
park and, depending on the water level, has lots of white water.
Mariscal Canyon
is noted for
its beauty and isolation, and
Santa Elena Canyon
is a classic float featuring the class IV Rock
Slide rapid.
