Float Trip

[Tone]

I've never really done a float trip before.  I thought maybe I might try a 1 day trip through an outfitter, just to see how it's done.  I've looked through some of the links of available tours and such, but it would be nice to have someone who has done this sort of thing give recommendations.

Any recommendations?

[jeffblaylock]

I've used Far Flung for a one-day float through Santa Elena (via the Big Bend Friends group) and will likely use them again for the other two canyons later this year.

[fartymarty]

I also used Far Flung and I was mostly happy with the experience. The food was great and our guide Becky was perfect. She knew when to talk and when to be quiet, and gladly answered questions. She also did all the work. Some of the other rafts in our group (3 rafts ) were a little noisy and I was so glad that they didn't put me on one of those.  

The other two outfitters on the river that day (Desert Sports & Big Bend River Tours) both stopped at Fern Canyon, none of the Far Flung rafts in our group did. If I were to do it again I would have checked all three and gone with the one that would give me a firm commitment to do some Fern Canyon hiking.  I think you'll enjoy your trip with any of them.

[fastsplit]

I too would recommend Far Flung.

Santa Elena gets all the press but Boquillas Canyon is beautiful, has rapids and in my book is the best (Except for the lower canyons but you might put that off for awhile).  For a Boquillas run you can put in at Rio Grande campground.  Take out can be at Stillwell Crossing (Adams Ranch) or at La Linda.

Talk to the Far Flung guys.

[westtex]

Most interesting - Big Bend River Tours
Most professional - Far Flung
Best Overall - Desert Sports

[McTraveler]

Doing a 2 night/3 day Boquillas Canyon with Desert Sports next week - will be sure to post a report.

[quicksilver]

My favorite is Mariscal, wild solitude, remote, but difficult shuttle.

Quicksilver

[jave]

Some of the guides who worked multiple spots wound up with Desert Sports.  Our guide said I was the first she had lost out of the raft in 10 yrs (rogue wave during flooding) and they did very well snagging me.