Santa Elena Canyon

Overview

Santa Elena Canyon is a stunning geological feature within Big Bend National Park, Texas. It offers breathtaking views and exhilarating hiking trails along the Rio Grande River.

Recognized for its dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations, Santa Elena Canyon is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

Canyon Hiking Scenic Views

Location

Address

Big Bend National Park

Neighborhood: Chisos Mountains

Coordinates

29.250600, -103.188400

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

tuesday 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

wednesday 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

thursday 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

friday 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

saturday 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

sunday 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$30 per vehicle

Children

Free (age 15 and under)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Wildflowers
• Mild temperatures

summer

Hot and dry

• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Falling leaves and cooler temperatures

winter

Cool to cold

• Snow in higher elevations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check weather conditions
Carry plenty of water
Wear appropriate footwear

What to Bring

essential

Water Hiking shoes Sun protection

seasonal

Warm layers Rain jacket

not allowed

Drones without permit Pets on trails

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate to high

• Heat exhaustion
• Dehydration
• Uneven terrain

Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $30 per vehicle

parking Free

food $10-$20

souvenirs $15-$50

Dress Code

Comfortable and appropriate for hiking, Lightweight, breathable clothing, sun hat, sunglasses, Sturdy hiking shoes or boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• Not required, but recommended for tours
• National Park Service website
• Varies by tour operator
• Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Big Bend National Park

Size: 45 MB

Features: Maps, Trail guides, Park alerts

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Midland International Airport

Distance: 300 km

Travel Time: 3.5 hours

car

$30-$50 in fuel 3.5 hours

shuttle

$100-$150 4 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

car

$10-$20 in fuel 10 min

bike

Free 20 min

taxi

$15-$25 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty and peaceful environment

Historical Significance: Part of the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River system

Insider Tips

Best views at sunset
Early morning hikes are less crowded

Local Recommendations

• Visit the Chisos Mountains Lodge for a meal
• Talk to park rangers for hidden gems

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Canyon Overlook

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Breathtaking canyon views

#SantaElenaCanyon #BigBendNationalPark

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas None

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit required for professional shoots

drone policy Permit required

tripod policy Allowed

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Chisos Basin

Distance: 20 km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Scenic Drive

Boquillas del Carmen

Distance: 30 km