Boquillas Canyon Hike is a short, easy hike in the Rio Grande Village area of Big Bend National Park. At 1.4 miles roundtrip, it is mostly flat with one short climb at the beginning over a spur into the canyon. The trail does offer some shade at certain times of the day, and you may see some wildlife in the form of birds or turtles.
Trailhead
The trail is located at the far southeast end of the park. It is located on the same road as the Boquillas Port of Entry. We did the hike after we visited Mexico, and enjoyed looking back across the Rio Grande to the small town of Boquillas del Carmen where we’d eaten lunch. The parking area is at the end of the Boquillas Canyon Road.
The Trail
There is a small parking area for the canyon, and the trail starts by climbing up and over a small ridge. The near side is fairly easy as the switchbacks help you navigate to the top. Then the trail drops quickly down and turns up the canyon. This short section would be hard for those who have difficulty with footing, but we saw little girls around 3 years-old doing this hike with a little help.
The Boquillas Canyon Trail quickly becomes a bit sandy and turns up the canyon. It also splits, though it isn’t truly a loop. Stay as close to the river as the trail allows, and watch for turtles that live in the river. We saw several when we visited in the Spring.
The trail stays level and easy, and you can walk as far as you like into the canyon. Eventually, it gets difficult and bushwhacking would be required. There are also a few places toward the end where the trail has about a ten foot drop into the Rio Grande. There is not much danger, but be aware that the trail is fairly narrow.
As you turn back to the car, you’ll find that walking closer to the canyon wall is easier. You can stay away from the river’s edge and move faster, but it isn’t as scenic. This is what looks like a loop on the way out. Then there is that quick climb back up and over the ridge to the parking area.
The Boquillas Canyon Trail is a great hike in Big Bend, and it is very popular. If you are looking for other family-friendly hikes in this national park, check out our Big Bend Kid Hikes list.
