Santa Elena Canyon

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View from the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend
View from the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend
The Rio Grande River winds 12 miles down Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park, Texas. When the water is high you can come down the 1,500 foot walled canyon. With less water flowing, guides take you 3 to 4 miles up the canyon with some spots having to portage. But take it all in stride because the views are breathtaking. I recommend Big Bend River Tours. You might get lucky and have the guides that take you a half mile up a side canyon. An excellent day excursion in the out of the way national park.
Santa Elena Canyon 05-17-2017
Depending on the water level, you might need to wade thru or step over a relatively narrow creek to get to the best viewing spot overlooking Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park. In the picture, the left side of the river is Mexico; USA is on the right side.

Lodging Near Santa Elena Canyon

Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa

Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa

4 out of 5
21701 FM 170 Terlingua TX
The price is AU$257 per night from 12 Feb to 13 Feb
AU$257
12 Feb - 13 Feb
includes taxes & fees
When you stay at Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa in Terlingua, you'll be in the historical district, within a 5-minute drive of Big Bend Ranch State Park and Barton ...
Our room was spectacular, clean, cute & cozy.

Reviewed on 1 Feb 2026

Opens in a new windowLajitas Golf Resort and Spa
Big Bend Station

Big Bend Station

2 out of 5
53623 Texas 118 Terlingua TX
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$261 per night from 19 Feb to 20 Feb
AU$261
19 Feb - 20 Feb
includes taxes & fees
Located in Terlingua, Big Bend Station is within a 5-minute drive of Many Stones and Big Bend Library.
Clean

Reviewed on 27 Jan 2026

Opens in a new windowBig Bend Station
Chisos Mining Co Motel

Chisos Mining Co Motel

23280 FM170 Terlingua TX
The price is AU$175 per night from 12 Feb to 13 Feb
AU$175
12 Feb - 13 Feb
includes taxes & fees
With a stay at Chisos Mining Co Motel in Terlingua, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Many Stones and Big Bend Library.
The owner of the motel was very welcoming. I would definitely stay here again.

Reviewed on 2 Feb 2026

Opens in a new windowChisos Mining Co Motel
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.