Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend

Santa Elena Canyon is one of the crown jewels of Big Bend National Park, and something you surely don't want to miss if you pay the park a visit. To get here you will take the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive from Panther Junction, the park's headquarters. This drive has many pull-offs to take advantage of for.. you guessed it- scenic views! The road ends at Santa Elena Canyon Overlook which is where you will find access to the 1.7 mile out and back trail that takes you into the canyon.

Starting off, you will walk across a sandy area to the river banks of the Rio Grande. It is here that your first views of the mouth of the canyon will come into sight and they won't disappoint. Depending on how much rain the park has had you may have a little trouble getting to the other side of the runoff creek that blocks you from the trail, but don't worry! If you head down a little west you can find an easier spot to cross without getting wet.

The trail is clearly laid out and offers spectacular views of the canyon as it takes you up 160ft above Rio Grande, but still leaves you surrounded by the towering 1500ft canyon walls on either side. If going in Spring or Summer do not forget to bring ample water as temperatures can often rise over 100 degrees!