- Put-in Location: Talley - Big Bend National Park
- Take-out Location: Solis - Big Bend National Park
- River Mileage: 10 miles
- Best Done in: Two or three days
- Best Craft: Canoes or Rafts
While the Rio Grande in Big Bend is not noted for its whitewater, this section has one small rapid known as the Tight Squeeze.
This is a true wilderness river journey and one you should add to your river list. The drive to the put-in is about 2.5 hours from park headquarters on rough, unimproved road. This trip is offered on a limited basis due to its remote location, but is an excellent one for small groups.
Mariscal Canyon is where the Big Bend takes its name as the Rio Grande turn abruptly northeast, creating the 'bend" that is so well known today.
As you enter the canyon, note the massive anticline formation on the Mexican side. Check out the "hermit's" place where an anonymous architect from Houston made a home during the early 70's - maybe running from the draft?
Cross canyon camp, some researchers believe, is where the Spaniards first crossed into this part of the country. Pictographs on the Mexican wall show men on horses with crosses.
Recommended reading:
- A Most Singular Country by Art Gomez
Have a question? Call us at (800) 839-7238 or drop us an email at info@ffoc.net
