27 Apr 2012 06.09.16 PM
Santa Elena Canyon & The Rio Grande by subarcticmike http://www.flickr.com/photos/31856336@N03/ © Some rights reserved
The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive in the Western Region of Big Bend National Park is a photographer and hiker's paradise with its many scenic overlooks and miles of rolling desert and wide, open sky. Despite being mainly a route for an exciting car adventure, the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers many opportunities for a day full of short, fun hiking excursions through some of the park's most remote, dramatic scenery.
The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive twists around for 30 miles (48km) skirting the Chisos Mountains and the town of Castolon until it arrives at the cliffs of the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, a must-see landmark for all visitors to Big Bend. Be sure to stop and enjoy the views at Mule Ears Overlook, Sotol Vista Overlook, and Tuff Canyon along the way.
Interesting, short hikes can be found at all major vantage points along the drive. In true National Park fashion, all of the historic and geologic features on the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive are illustrated with interpretative signs. Rock hounds will appreciate the volcanic geology of Tuff Canyon hike and history buffs will enjoy the short atmospheric walks to Sam Nail Ranch, Homer Wilson (Blue Creek) Ranch, and Castolon Historic District which showcase Big Bend's past.
For short worthwhile jaunts, consider hiking Tuff Canyon and most certainly do not miss the short hike all the way down to the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon where massive limestone cliffs soar into the blue desert sky. The muddy Rio Grande flows between, dividing Texas on one side and Mexico on the other. To truly “feel” the canyon, going into the Santa Elena Canyon is a must–either by foot, kayak, or canoe. Once inside the canyon, parts of the trail are shaded and cooled by the high canyon walls.
For a longer hike, consider the Burro Mesa Pour-off where you can spot Southwestern earless lizards! These colorful creatures have a beautiful rainbow pattern on their skin and have been spotted on trails near Homer Wilson's Ranch as well.
Look across the river to Mexico, wave to the occasional rancher herding his cattle and then spot the trail entrance. Climb several switchbacks (some with stairs and railings, most paved) to a vista more than 100 feet high, where you can look back to admire the overview of the Rio Grande as it leaves the canyon.
After that, it's all down hill back to the river on a gentle slope, through deliciously cool air shaded by the canyon walls towering above you on both sides. These massive cliffs rise up on either side of the river about 1200 feet or more and their looming presence is simply amazing. The hike up into the canyon is not long, maybe an hour, and does have some uphill in the beginning, but it is worth it. The trail ends at a small beach along the river.
To extend this hike, continue west on the trail beyond the chimneys another 4.6 miles. This results in an enjoyable 7-mile hike if you can arrange transportation on the opposite end. The trail comes to an end on the Old Maverick Road near Luna's Jacal. Another option for extending your hike, is to head northwest 1.5 miles from the chimneys to the huge cottonwood tree that marks Red Ass Spring. Return the way you came.
