Trans-Pecos Texas

The Santa Elena hike takes you into the mouth of on of the three major canyons of the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park. Because of the 1,500 foot deep canyon is spectacular and the hike is easy, this trail is one of the most popular in the park. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100 degrees F, so hike early in the morning from April through October and carry water. Fortunately, there is shade in the canyon. Although there is little net elevation change in the hike, the trail does require a short 80 foot climb up the canyon wall and back down to river level.

The trail runs through a stand of giant river cane, mesquite, tamarisk, and other plants before dipping into Terlingua Creek drainage. The creek may be completely dry or flowing strongly. Use caution and common sense in deciding whether to cross if the water is deep and muddy. Once you cross Terlingua Creek, you immediately climb a fairly steep, paved trail. Rest as needed as you climb and enjoy the views behind you. To the east and southeast, The floodplain of the Rio Grande and the ribbon of river wind through to the desert; to the northeast rise the Sierra Quemada and Chisos Mountains.

The cliff on the right as you approach the canyon is the most easterly edge of the Mesa de Anguila, a large mesa in the dry western portion of the national park. To your left across the Rio Grande rises the impressive Sierra Ponce, the northern boundary of Mexico and the other canyon wall.

As you reach the trails high point, you get your first good view of the river in the canyon. From here you descend a series of steep long steps to the narrow river floodplain. The trail follows the river through thick, shady stands of mesquite, cane, and tamarisk, eventually passing under a huge, angular boulder. Just past the boulder the the trail winds it way to the wet and sand at the river’s edge. Several trails twist through the boulders that litter the floodplain, but eventually the river cuts off the path at a sheer canyon wall, blocking further access upstream.

Of the three major canyons of the Rio Grande in the national park, Santa Elena Canyon is the most frequently boated. Although most of the river is fairly flat, the Rockside - a class 4 / 5 rapid - adds excitement and challenge to the trip for many people who float the canyon each year. This is not a trip for novice boaters. Mexican water withdrawals and extended drought have made float trips more difficult in recent years.