Hiking Santa Elena Canyon

One of the shortest and grandest hikes in our region, Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park.  The park's website says this about this trail:

"1.7 miles roundtrip. This trail begins at the end of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Although a short trail, it is one of the grandest spectacles in the park. After crossing Terlingua Creek, the trail climbs several short switchbacks and then gradually descends along the banks of the Rio Grande. Hikers are surrounded by lush riparian vegetation and 1,500-foot towering vertical cliffs of solid limestone. The trail ends where canyon walls meet the river. Take a lunch and enjoy the scene. Note: Following rains, flash floods, or periods of high water, Terlingua creek can be impassable, effectively closing the trail."

For more regional hiking information, visit: www.texasmountaintrail.com/hike