Nestled in the heart of the Big Bend region, Terlingua offers a truly unique adventure for those seeking to explore the majestic Rio Grande. Imagine gliding through the breathtaking canyons, catching glimpses of diverse wildlife, and experiencing the thrill of paddling along the Texas-Mexico border. This full-day guided raft, kayak, or canoe trip promises an unforgettable journey, with stunning vistas and a touch of adrenaline that will leave you eager to discover more about this captivating corner of the Lone Star State.
Good To Know
- A full-day guided adventure along the Rio Grande in Big Bend National Park, offering canoeing, rafting, and kayaking experiences.
- Priced at $150 per person for a 7-hour excursion, with flexible cancellation and payment options.
- Itinerary includes van travel, 2 hours of canoeing, a 1-hour lunch break, and 1.5 additional hours on the water.
- Provides river gear, focuses on safety, and recommends appropriate attire and personal items for the trip.
- Offers stunning canyon views, opportunities to spot wildlife, and a profound sense of crossing between the United States and Mexico along the border.
Trip Overview and Pricing
Set out on a thrilling, full-day guided adventure along the Rio Grande on a raft, kayak, or canoe trip. Priced at $150 per person, this 7-hour excursion offers a chance to experience the scenic beauty of Big Bend National Park.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
You’ll start at Terlingua, travel by van to the park, and enjoy 2 hours of canoeing, a lunch break, and an additional 1.5 hours on the water.
Soak in the canyon views and float along the Texas-Mexico border before returning to the starting point.
Like guided experiences? More Big Bend National Park tours with local guides
Itinerary and Locations
The adventure begins at 53570 TX-118 in Terlingua, where participants board a van for the 1-hour drive to Big Bend National Park. Upon arrival, the group will kick off the excursion with 2 hours of canoeing. This is followed by a well-deserved 1-hour lunch break before continuing with an additional 1.5 hours of canoeing.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Van travel to Big Bend | 1 hour |
| Canoeing | 2 hours |
| Lunch break | 1 hour |
| Additional canoeing | 1.5 hours |
| Van travel back | 1 hour |
The main highlights include scenic views of the canyons and floating along the Texas-Mexico border.
Equipment and Safety
All necessary river gear is provided for the adventure, including dry bags to keep personal belongings safe and secure.
Adventurers can choose between sturdy rafts, perfect for beginners, or the more agile canoes and kayaks. The two-person canoes offer a collaborative experience, while the single and tandem kayaks allow guests to paddle independently.
Sturdy, water-friendly shoes are recommended – flip-flops won’t cut it on this wild ride. Those with back problems or who can’t swim won’t be able to join, as the trip isn’t suitable for them.
With the proper precautions and gear, thrill-seekers are in for an exhilarating journey along the iconic Texas-Mexico border.
What to Bring
Packed with essentials, the adventurous journey calls for a well-curated selection of gear.
Don’t forget to bring a hat to shield from the sun’s glare, a camera to capture stunning canyon views, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Other must-haves include:
- Snacks to fuel your energy during the activity.
- Sunscreen to protect your skin from the elements.
- Comfortable, quick-drying clothes and water shoes for the river.
Medications, such as epi-pens or inhalers, can also be stored in the provided dry bags for easy access.
With the right equipment, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable Rio Grande adventure.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPark Fees and Routes
To access the national park, visitors must pay the required entrance fee. The America the Beautiful Pass or a 7-day vehicle pass covers the group.
The specific route taken will depend on the current water levels. In high water conditions, adventurers can embark on the thrilling Santa Elena or Colorado Canyon. For medium water, the Hot Springs Canyon offers a chance to soak in natural hot springs.
When water levels are low, the Upper Canyons or a Santa Elena Canyon boomerang route may be utilized. Guides will confirm the precise details a few days prior to the trip, ensuring an unforgettable experience tailored to the river’s conditions.
Experience the Rio Grande
Adventurers embark on a river-borne odyssey, gliding through the majestic canyons that line the Texas-Mexico border.
The guided trip offers three distinct experiences:
- Navigating the rushing rapids of the Rio Grande in sturdy rafts, an adrenaline-fueled journey for beginners and thrill-seekers alike.
- Serenely paddling in two-person canoes, soaking in the stunning scenery and tranquility of the river.
- Exploring the waterways in single or tandem kayaks, offering a more intimate connection with the river’s ebb and flow.
Whether you choose to raft, canoe, or kayak, this full-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience amidst the rugged beauty of the Big Bend region.
Scenic Views of Canyons
The river’s serpentine path carves through the towering limestone cliffs, their jagged walls casting dramatic shadows upon the glistening waters below.
As you float along, the striking canyon vistas unfold before you – sheer rock faces, sculpted by the elements, rise hundreds of feet overhead.
Vibrant bands of color streak across the stone, hinting at the region’s ancient geological history.
Around each bend, a new panorama emerges, from the narrow, winding gorges to the wide, open expanses where the canyon walls recede.
This is a landscape of raw, untamed beauty – a true feast for the senses that will leave you in awe of nature’s grandeur.
Floating the Texas-Mexico Border
As the canyon walls recede and the river opens up, adventurers find themselves tracing the famed Texas-Mexico border. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the storied history and natural beauty of the region.
The journey along the border showcases:
Stunning vistas of the riparian landscape, with Mexico’s rugged Sierra del Carmen mountains rising up on the opposite bank.
Opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, from soaring birds of prey to the occasional herd of grazing bighorn sheep.
A profound sense of crossing between two nations, with the river serving as a silent witness to the ebb and flow of human activity along this international boundary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Meals and Snacks Provided During the Trip?
Meals and snacks aren’t provided, but you’ll enjoy a 1-hour lunch break during the trip. Bring your own packed lunch and plenty of water to stay energized throughout the day’s exciting river adventures.
Can We Bring Our Own Water Equipment or Gear?
Adventurers can’t bring their own water equipment or gear. The tour provides all necessary river gear, including dry bags for personal belongings. This ensures participants’ safety and a streamlined experience exploring the scenic Rio Grande.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
Guests can take advantage of the provider’s flexible cancellation policy – they offer free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing travelers to easily reschedule their thrilling Rio Grande rafting, kayaking, or canoeing adventure.
Are There Any Age or Physical Fitness Requirements to Participate?
This thrilling river adventure welcomes participants of all ages and skill levels, though they mustn’t have severe back issues or be non-swimmers. Sturdy shoes are recommended, and guests should avoid flip-flops for safety.
Is This Trip Suitable for Families With Young Children?
Families with young children can enjoy this thrilling river adventure, though it may not be suitable for the very youngest. Kids must be able to sit still and follow safety instructions. Parental supervision is essential.
The Sum Up
The Rio Grande rafting, kayaking, or canoeing trip in Terlingua is an exhilarating adventure that’ll transport you through stunning canyons, along the Texas-Mexico border. You’ll spot diverse wildlife, savor a scenic lunch, and bask in the thrill of paddling through this unique wilderness. With safety gear provided, it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Texas backcountry.
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