BIG BEND FLOAT TRIPS - MULTI DAY TRIPS
"Rivers are a
constant lure to the adventurous instinct of mankind" Henry David
Thoreau
Exploring the canyons
of the Rio Grande on a multi-day trip through Big Bend is the hallmark of Far
Flung's thirty-year history. Multi-day trips cater to a more relaxed pace,
allowing time to explore the wild places of the Chihuahuan Desert. Comfortable
camps, gourmet food, and knowledgeable, friendly guides create the perfect
outdoor experience. From an overnight trip through Santa Elena Canyon to a
ten-day journey down the Lower Canyons, there is a special place in Big Bend
just for you!
First, a quick note about water levels and river
craft.
Changing water conditions may
affect the choice of craft for any river trip. Although we make every attempt
to accommodate guest needs, river conditions on the day of departure may
dictate a change in itinerary and boat selection. When you sign on for a trip,
our staff will update you on the best boating option and canyon available for
your particular date.
For a quick pricing guide to our multi-canyon trips, click
here
Rafts: We use commercial grade Hypalon rafts
equipped with a metal frame and oarlocks. Our guides are stationed in the
middle of the raft and, with two long oars, navigate the boat downstream.
Guests ride in the front and rear compartments of the raft and are generally
not involved in the steering or maneuvering of the boat. This option is very
popular for folks wanting to just relax and enjoy the ride. We can offer a
guided paddle raft for those groups wanting to more exercise and interaction
with steering the boat.
Canoes: Our 16'canoes, made by Old Town,
seat two guests comfortably along with personal gear. At lower water levels,
canoes go easily where inflatable rafts cannot. Canoeing the Rio Grande does
not require any previous experience or an Olympic fitness level - just a
willingness to paddle. Beginning canoeists and those who haven't paddled since
summer camp will receive a short introductory lesson from our experienced staff
in order to help keep your canoe moving straight. We provide close proximity,
on river support to paddlers, and encourage those who want a little more
excitement during their trip to try out a canoe!
|
Canyon |
Perfect
for |
Best
Craft |
| Colorado |
2 days |
Rafts |
| Santa Elena |
2-3 Days |
Rafts or Canoes |
| Mariscal |
2-3 Days |
Rafts or Canoes |
| Boquillas |
3-5- Days |
Canoes |
| Temple |
2-3 Days |
Rafts or Canoes |
| Lower Canyons |
7-10 Days |
Canoes |
For a quick pricing guide to our multi-canyon trips, click
here.
Colorado Canyon:
Starting from the westernmost boundary of Big Bend, Colorado Canyon is a
eleven-mile section of the Rio Grande that cuts through a predominantly
volcanic landscape. This creates Big Bend's darkest canyon as large, colorful
ash flows have resulted in stunning natural features. A journey through
Colorado Canyon provides the visitor with a unique view of the Big Bend Ranch
State Park - Texas's largest state park.
Santa Elena Canyon:
Downstream of Lajitas, the Santa Elena Canyon (20 miles) is one of the most
written about and photographed canyons in Big Bend National Park. A sheer
walled limestone canyon created by faulting and carved by water and wind. Fully
explored by Captain Robert Hill in 1899, this canyon is a favorite of modern
day explorers.
Mariscal Canyon: Big
Bend's most remote canyon begins its ten-mile journey at Talley and ends at
Solis in the far southern reaches of the park. This is true wilderness as
access to this canyon can be limited by weather and road conditions. Add this
to your list of must see canyons in the Big Bend.
Boquillas Canyon: At
33 miles, Boquillas Canyon is the longest and most extensive river canyon in
the Big Bend. Near Mexico's Sierra del Carmen mountain range the vertical
relief from river level to mountain-top is over 7000 feet! This is a nice easy
float trip by canoe (perfect for beginners) that can be done in three of four
days depending on water flows. Great side hikes!
Temple Canyon: Starting at
the Stillwell Crossing near LaLinda, Mexico this easy 11 mile stretch of the
Rio Grande is within the Wild and Scenic River designation. The river travels
through a series of interesting canyons and the biologically diverse Black Gap
Wildlife Management Area. Indian camps and markings along the way tell us that
this section has been traveled extensively for thousands of years.
Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande:
Covering 72 miles, this seven or eight day trip (length depends on water
levels) offers some of the most spectacular wilderness in North America. Side
canyon hikes, hot spring soaks and fun, Class II-III rapids are all part of the
excitement. One of America's top 5 canoe trips!
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