Things To Do Near Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River
You will need to get a backcountry permit if you plan to camp along the river. That extra step is worth it to go on an unforgettable float trip on the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. Almost 70 miles of the route runs through Big Bend National Park. There are three large canyons to canoe through, along with many smaller ones.
Hiking Trails
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Chimney’s Trail
This trail in Big Bend National Park allows you to hike to the chimneys that people have used as landmarks for hundreds of years. There is some rock art near the base. Then, continue through the desert environment until you reach Old Maverick Road near Luna's Jacal.
Location
Mile 13, Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
Length
7 Miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Dog Canyon Trail
The first part of the trail runs through a wash. Take a left turn at the bottom of the wash, and hike through the narrow slot trail called Dog Canyon. The trail then runs by some rocks that geological forces have folded in half. When you turn around, follow the rim of the canyon to get back to the starting point.
Location
Dog Canyon, Big Bend National Park, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
Length
4.0 Miles
Intensity
Easy
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Chisos Basin Trail
This trail starts near the Chisos Basin Visitor Center. Then, it ascends through Long Meadow, where you can see the water-carved Window rock formation. It continues to climb through a dry oak forest before reaching Emory’s Peak summit. The trail ends by running down into Boot Canyon before returning to its starting point.
Location
Near Chisos Basin Visitor Center, 142 Chisos Basin Road, Big Bend National Park, Texas 79834
Length
10.5 Miles
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Mariscal Canyon
Mariscal Canyon is 10 miles long with limestone cliffs rising to 1,400 feet along its edge. Depending on water levels, there are two or three Class II rapids. Launch your kayak at Talley to access this canyon, and take your vessel out at Solis if you are not continuing.
Location
Talley Launch, Talley Road, Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Texas, 79834
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Boquillas Canyon
A float trip through this part of the river is about 33 miles long. From the river, enjoy views of the remains of Mexico’s candelilla wax mining camps. Most people take two to three days to float through this part of the river, which offers a few Class II rapids. Launch your kayak at Rio Grande Village.
Location
Rio Grande Village boat launch, Big Bend National Park, Big Bend, Texas 79834
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Black Gap Wildlife Management Area
The Black Gap Wildlife Management Area borders the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River and Big Bend National Park. You can go hunting seasonally for mule deer at this location. It is also a great place to go fishing, biking, and hiking.
Location
49476 FM 2627 Highway, Alpine, Texas 79830
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Far Flung Outdoor Center
Arrange half-day float trips, jeep tours, and other outdoor activities with Far Flung Outdoor Center. They operate many activities inside Big Bend National Park. They also provide canoe rentals and shuttles.
Location
23310 FM170, Terlingua, Texas 79852
Museums
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Museum of the Big Bend
Located on the campus of Sul Ross State University, the Museum of the Big Bendshowcases the area's natural and human history for hundreds of years. Many of the exhibits are interactive. See a collection of maps of the area over time.
Location
400 North Harrison Street C-101, Alpine, TX 79832
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Marfa and Presidio County Museum
Learn the history of Marfa and Presidio County by stopping at the Marfa and Presidio County Museum. Most display items hold an essential place in the city’s history, such as the mailboxes where everyone receives mail. Many of the collection items were given to high school students who were collecting information about the area’s history. The students went on to raise funds to build this museum.
Location
110 W San Antonio Street / Hwy 90, Marfa, TX 79843
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Big Bend Stone
Select from a variety of Tinjas planters at this store. Create unique water features for your landscaping using these natural planters that are hand-shaped in Mexico. This store also carries a variety of garden accent pieces.
Location
3 Casa Rosa Road, Terlingua, Texas 79852
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DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ
Find delicious slow-smoked meats at DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ. This restaurant’s shack appearance is highly appropriate for its location in a ghost town. Enjoy rapid service at this home-owned restaurant.
Location
23270 FM 170 - Terlingua, Texas 79852
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Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant
Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant is in the historic lodge at Big Bend National Park. This cafe is a terrific place to get an egg, fried potatoes, and pancake breakfast as you watch the sun kiss the hills surrounding this restaurant. Come back later in the day for Southern comfort foods at lunch and dinner.
Location
1 Basin Rural Station, Big Bend National Park, Big Bend, Texas 79834