The Lower Canyons

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Experience the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River in the Big Bend area of Texas.

This reach of the Rio Grande is a part of the Wild and Scenic River that was established in 1978 and is administered by the good folks over at Big Bend National Park. The Lower Canyons trip is just over 83 miles of some of the most spectacular desert and canyon country of the Chihuahuan Desert and is one of the least run sections of the Rio Grande in the Big Bend.

The Lower Canyons of the Rio Grande is one of our favorite river trips anywhere. The guide staff of Desert Sports has dedicated themselves to getting to know this portion of the Rio Grande. We have some of the most knowledgeable and experienced guides in the Big Bend Area with a special, personal interest in learning the Outstandingly Remarkable Values of this stretch of the river.

Due to the lower water levels we have been seeing over the last few years, this trip is more often done as a canoe trip. If you are a fit person with a bit of canoeing experience, this can be a great chance to hone your skills. Frequently it is difficult for us to schedule, in advance, a rafting trip for any reach of the Rio Grande here in Big Bend. This is especially true for the Lower Canyons.

The shortest trip we offer on this reach of the river is 7 days. We recommend stretching this trip to 8-10 days, especially if you want time to explore and visit some of the more remarkable hikes and vistas along the way. Our 12 day version of this tour allows ample time to slow down to the proper pace and really get to know this special corner of the Big Bend.

Lower Canyons “Traditional” by Raft or Canoe

This is the classic Lower Canyons trip, a true wilderness experience for 7-10 days. You’ll have the opportunity to hike side canyons and trails for stunning vistas of incomparable beauty. The scattering of class II-IV rapids provides an excellent arena for improving your canoeing skills. Relax each evening at one of the many fabulous campsites.

Lower Canyons 12-Day Special

“Some say you cannot call yourself a true Rio Grande river rat until you have floated the rugged Lower Canyons.”
River Guide to the Rio Grande: the Lower Canyons.

Our “deluxe” 12-day trip allows ample time for side canyon exploration and layover days. A beautiful, relaxing raft trip when the river is up and one of our favorite canoe trips in the southwest at most water levels. You’ll be able to exchange your everyday routine for the endless rhythm of the flowing river. You’ll know Asa Jones’s water works, Hot Springs Rapids and the hike to Burro Bluff. You can call yourself a true Rio Grande river rat. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is our river guides’ favorite trip.