Big Bend
National Park
Santa Elena Canyon
trail details
Type of Trip: Day Hike Out & Back
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Where: Big Bend National Park
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Permits Required: No
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Miles: 1.5
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Net Elevation Change: 247 ft
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Trailhead: Santa Elena Canyon
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CalTopo: https://caltopo.com/m/19PKP
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Description: Trail leads into the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon and follows the Rio Grande River upstream for a short ways
logistics & itinerary
Wilderness Area : Big Bend National Park
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When to apply? No permit required
Permit Style: None
Permit Application: None
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When did we do this hike? April 2024
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Transportation: We parked at the trailhead
Water: There is no water available on this trail or at the trailhead. Fill up on water at the Castolon Visitor Center. It is not advised to drink from the Rio Grande River.
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Leave-No-Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles. Carry out all trash. Do not burn or bury toilet paper or trash. No fires.
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Flora Considerations: Tall grasses, brush, cacti
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Fauna Considerations: A variety of bird species live in the area along with reptiles and signs of bobcats and javalinas
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Trail Specific Considerations: Temperatures and weather can range drastically in this area depending on the time of year. The trail begins by crossing Terlingua Creek and climbing up a steep sandy back. Conditions for this crossing change constantly. Terlingua Creek could be dry and sandy, thick mud, or flowing water. Carefully assess conditions and your abilities before attempting to cross. If water levels are too high, do NOT attempt to cross. There is full exposure to the elements with little to no tree cover. It can be incredibly hot when in direct sunlight. Like any wilderness trip, you accept a certain amount of risk when going on your hike. You are responsible for assessing how comfortable you feel with that risk and understanding your own physical abilities.
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