Last updated: January 29, 2021
Thing to Do
Float the Rio Grande
NPS
Floating the Rio Grande
If you have the time and a spirit of adventure, you may want to consider a river trip. Seeing the park's canyons from the middle of the Rio Grande can be an incredible experience. Trips vary from easy day floats to challenging multi-day expeditions.
Floating the Rio Grande can take you through miles of canyons up to 1,500 feet deep, where the sunlight may reach the bottom only briefly on winter days. As in other parts of the park, your ears may tell you more than your eyes. Listen for beavers crawling through the brush;you might catch a glimpse as one slides down the riverbank into the water. Turtles, especially red-eared sliders, often sun themselves on rocks and logs just above the waterline. Great blue herons and green kingfishers are just some of the many birds you may see flying along the river.
Along the more open areas of the Rio Grande, you may see local people fishing, farming, and engaging in other traditional activities. These quiet stretches of the river offer expansive views of the colorful buttes, mesas, and mountains in both the U.S. and in Mexico. Far fewer people float the open water between the canyons, so it is possible to go for days without seeing another boater.
A backcountry permit and specific equipment is required for day-use and overnight river trips.
River Trips - Big Bend National Park
International Border
There is often concern about being close to an international border, but incidents between Big Bend visitors and Mexican nationals are exceptionally rare.
The middle of the deepest channel of the Rio Grande is the international boundary. Over the course of your trip, you may cross this boundary several times. Currently, passports are not required. Landing on the Mexican bank of the river is considered an illegal crossing and could result in fines and jail time. However, limited exceptions are made when safety is a consideration: to bail/repack a boat, scout rapids, or seek shade when overheating.
- Floating the Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River (Mariscal Canyon, Boquillas Canyon, Lower Canyons)
Details
Activity
Paddling
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are not allowed on the river or in the park's backcountry.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
If you have the time and a spirit of adventure, you may want to consider a river trip. Seeing the park's canyons from the middle of the Rio Grande can be an incredible experience. A variety of outfitters can assist you in trip planning, gear rentals, or guide trips.