Big Bend National Park

Continuing south all the way to the Rio Grande River, 

we finally arrive at Big Bend National Park.

I was expecting a vast desert and was surprised to see lots of craggy mountains.
These are the Chisos Mountains in the center of the park.

We spent time in the southwest part of the park.
Off in the distance, we approach the Santa Elena Canyon
where the Rio Grande breaks through the mountain range.

The entrance to the Santa Elena Canyon.

 Overlooking the Rio Grande River from the Santa Elena Trail.

By hiring an outfitter,
we were able to canoe the Rio Grande.

It was fun floating through the canyons.

  We spotted some wildlife, like this Big Bend lizard.

And a vermillion flycatcher in the Cottonwood campground.

And the roadsides were filled with lots of bluebonnets and other wildflowers.
Spring is a wonderful time to visit the park.