Far Flung

Santa Elena Canyon

• Put-in Location: Lajitas, Texas
• Take-out Location: NPS Take-out, about 5 miles upstream from Castolon
• River Mileage: 20 miles
• Best Done in: Two or three days
• Best Craft: Canoes or Rafts

This section has one well-known rapid - Rock Slide. In reality, Rock Slide is more of a maze or labyrinth (except at high water) that requires guides to have a very good understanding of the routes and hydraulics that are hidden by house-size rocks that have fallen from the limestone walls.

Fun Facts about Santa Elena Canyon:

If you're a river rat and like to just float, do this canyon as an overnight journey. If you like to explore and hike, make it a three day to give yourself plenty of time to see some of the many neat side canyons. Depending on water levels this trip may be by canoe or raft.

Santa Elena canyon is of limestone base, originating first from faulting and then carved and polished by the silty Rio Grande. Be sure to note the "optical illusion" as you enter the canyon. The canyon walls tip upstream making it appear that the river is much steeper than it is.

Time permitting, there are some great hikes at the Entrance camps and Fern Canyon. Entrance camp has a trail that leads to the rim of the canyon affording some magnificent view of the area. Fern Canyon, located about 3 miles downstream of Rock Slide is a major drainage entering from the Mexico side. This is a great swimming hole in the warmer months and offers some neat slot canyon exploration.

Recommended reading:

• Big Bend - The National Park Handboook

Have a question? You may find the answer on the "Frequently Asked Questions" page. Or, call us at (800) 839-7238.