Paddling Through The Hidden Santa Elena Canyon Is A Magical Texas Adventure That Will Light Up Your Soul
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
