If your inner fire is feeling dimmer than usual, consider a Santa Elena Canyon kayaking trip to reignite the flame. Paddling through this mesmerizing natural wonder, complete with 1,500-foot vertical cliffs that threaten to pierce through the atmosphere, is an adventure that will leave you feeling like a whole new person.
If you’re looking to do some soul-searching, we can’t imagine a better destination than Santa Elena Canyon.
TripAdvisor/Steve5863 Located in the iconic, yet extremely remote Big Bend National Park, this eponymous natural wonder boasts 1,500-foot cliffs that make make all of your worries seem miniscule by comparison.
Most people who visit the canyon opt to take the easy, 1.5-mile hiking trail that leads down to the mighty Rio Grande.
TripAdvisor/paxa The views are indescribable, and - save for a creek crossing at the beginning - the hike is fairly straightforward and leisurely.
For those after a more immersive experience, however, paddling through the canyon offers a whole different level of adventure.
TripAdvisor/Birddawg Both day and overnight river trips are allowed, with the former option being much better suited for novice kayakers.
The day trip involves paddling upstream a few miles from the Santa Elena Canyon Trailhead, and then returning back to your starting point.
TripAdvisor/Starinhon Be sure to check the water level ahead of time - it needs to be quite low to ensure you won’t have to fight a strong current and to make for a relaxing excursion.
More experienced paddlers can embark on an overnight (or two-night), 20-mile trip through the canyon.
TripAdvisor/anna_mh_tx This option offers a fascinating look at the stark contrast between the two different ecosystems - desert and riparian - present in this region. Be warned, however, that the largest rapid in the canyon, the Rock Slide, can be a Class IV at times. Additionally, the last 7 miles of the trip are quite technical.
You may even have enough time to squeeze in an afternoon picnic by the water if you opt for the day paddle.
TripAdvisor/Cynthia L Can you imagine a more perfect spot to sit, relax, and reflect?
No matter how you choose to experience Santa Elena Canyon, simply being in the presence of such a dramatic nature wonder is bound to leave you feeling like a whole new person afterwards.
TripAdvisor/PandaHouston Views this striking are often great catalysts for change in body, mind, and soul.
This river trip can also be completed in a boat or raft. Please visit the National Park Service website to learn more about kayaking Santa Elena Canyon.
TripAdvisor/Steve5863
Located in the iconic, yet extremely remote Big Bend National Park, this eponymous natural wonder boasts 1,500-foot cliffs that make make all of your worries seem miniscule by comparison.
TripAdvisor/paxa
The views are indescribable, and - save for a creek crossing at the beginning - the hike is fairly straightforward and leisurely.
TripAdvisor/Birddawg
Both day and overnight river trips are allowed, with the former option being much better suited for novice kayakers.
TripAdvisor/Starinhon
Be sure to check the water level ahead of time - it needs to be quite low to ensure you won’t have to fight a strong current and to make for a relaxing excursion.
TripAdvisor/anna_mh_tx
This option offers a fascinating look at the stark contrast between the two different ecosystems - desert and riparian - present in this region. Be warned, however, that the largest rapid in the canyon, the Rock Slide, can be a Class IV at times. Additionally, the last 7 miles of the trip are quite technical.
TripAdvisor/Cynthia L
Can you imagine a more perfect spot to sit, relax, and reflect?
TripAdvisor/PandaHouston
Views this striking are often great catalysts for change in body, mind, and soul.
Have you ever paddled through Santa Elena Canyon? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for a scenic drive in Big Bend National Park that leads straight to the canyon.
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Address: Santa Elena Canyon, Texas 79852, USA
