Lajitas to Terlingua Creek or Castolon

[Dennis1993]

Ive been thinking about a Canoe trip From Lajitas to ether Terlingua Creek or Castolon. I am just wondering how many nights it would take/how far it is, Camping info/Restrictions/Required permits, best time to go/river levels, difficulty for rapids?

Thanks,
    Dennis   

[jeffblaylock]

It can be done in half a day or a good overnighter. The takeout point is east of Terlingua Creek, about a mile or so from the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon.

[colorado]

http://home.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/floating_the_rio.htm

[TheWildWestGuy]

I would call Jan at Big Bend River Tours 1-800-545-4240 for up to date info on the river levels, she has been operating in this area for years and I always have trusted her advice in the past.   It all depends on water levels and even 6" can make the difference between canoeing  and dragging a canoe.   You will also need a vehicle shuttle at the take-out point at the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon.  It is about a 1/4 mile portage from the river to the parking lot so may take several trips if you have a lot of gear/weight.  Don't underestimate this trip - call Jan and take her advice. It's always worked for me... TWWG

[harold]

.It has been quite a while since I canoed Santa Elena Canyon.  We put in at Lajitas and took out at the river access just down stream of the canyon exit. At low water it is a fairly easy paddle if you are competent in handling a canoe if moving water. The Rockslide, just in side the canyon entrance should not be under estimated. You have to climb up on some very large (house size) rocks to scout the rapid. You can NOT see the route from water level. like I said at low water it is not difficult but you do have to choose the correct route or you can end in a dead end slot and it is very difficult to retreat upstream in a loaded canoe.

It is about 17 miles from Lajitas through the canyon, a VERY long day trip especially in low water. We overnighted in the canyon, truly a unique experience. I believe that some trips camp just outside the canyon entrance. At the time we went there was a class II rapid just before the canyon entrance.

Check the NPS website for info on required equipment. You can still self permit at the Warnock center, I think. They do require a toilet system, that can be rented from one of the outfitters.

If you haven't run the other canyons I would highly recommend both Boquillas and Mariscal. Boquillas is the simplest logistically, and makes a great two night trip. If you would like any info just e-mail me.