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A quick jaunt through spectacular Santa Elena Canyon.


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Map Key

1.0

Miles

1.5

KM

Out and Back

2,314' 705 m

High

2,163' 659 m

Low

167' 51 m

Up

167' 51 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

23%

Max Grade (13°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views

Family Friendly Gorgeous canyon views and a manageable length make this a wonderful option for families with children.

Overview

Travel along the Santa Elena Canyon Trail for an awe inspiring experience amidst the sheer walls of Santa Elena Canyon and the verdant green waters of the Rio Grande.

Description

Starting at the Santa Elena Canyon Trail Parking Area, head east across Terlingua Creek and up the paved steps to a midpoint along the canyon wall. Atop the trail's crest, stop at the walled viewpoint to take in spectacular views of the canyon stretching out before you, before descending gently on dirt-treaded singletrack to the trail's end where the canyon walls meet the river.

Be sure to bring plenty of water with you on trail, as Big Bend's arid climate can quickly dehydrate even the most seasoned hiker.

Contacts

Shared By:

Hunter R

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 73 votes

#116

Overall
  4.4 from 73 votes
5 Star
56%
4 Star
32%
3 Star
11%
2 Star
1%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#3

in Texas

#116

Overall
25 Views Last Month
5,511 Since Jul 1, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

13%
10%
69%
0%
7%
0%

Photos

Santa Elena Canyon
Oct 15, 2019 near Lajitas, TX
Santa Elena Canyon and the Rio Grande
Oct 15, 2019 near Lajitas, TX
Santa Elena Canyon
Oct 15, 2019 near Lajitas, TX
Mouth of Santa Elena Canyon
Sep 29, 2015 near Lajitas, TX
Santa Elena Canyon Trail
Jan 11, 2019 near Lajitas, TX
Santa Elena Canyon Panoramic
Oct 15, 2019 near Lajitas, TX
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 3 days ago
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