Spend a full day floating the Rio Grande’s canyon sections from Terlingua. This guided trip offers geology, desert flora, swimming stops, and variable craft depending on river level—pack a lunch and plan for a 7–8 hour outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning air in Terlingua is thin and desert-bright as vans pull away toward the river. You feel the current before you see it — a glint of water threading between high, sun-polished canyon walls. Guides outfit the group, fit PFDs, and hand over dry bags; the river dares you to settle in and watch the canyon speak.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to sit and paddle for several hours and handle brief riverbank walks
Wildlife
History
The river corridor has long been a travel and trade route for Indigenous peoples; later mining and ranching shaped settlements like Terlingua and the borderlands culture.
Conservation
Operators encourage leave-no-trace practices, water refill over single-use plastics, and staying on permitted access points to protect archaeological sites and fragile desert vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Float the Canyons of the Rio Grande today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a packed lunch and refillable water
The tour requires you to bring lunch; guides provide coolers and refill water so bring ice packs and a reusable bottle.
Protect yourself from the sun
Wide-brim hat, long-sleeve sun shirt, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential—shade is limited and reflected heat off canyon walls can intensify exposure.
Wear secure, closed-toe water shoes
Expect rocky landings and short hikes to picnic spots—closed-toe sandals or neoprene shoes protect toes and offer traction.
Respect the international boundary
The river marks the U.S.–Mexico border; stay on the U.S. side and follow guide instructions to avoid crossing or approaching private property.
Wide-brim sun hat and sun-protective shirt
Keeps you shaded during long stretches of unshaded river canyon.
summer
Refillable water bottle (at least 1L)
Guides provide refills but you’ll need to carry your own bottle throughout the float.
summer
Closed-toe water shoes
Protects feet on rocky shores and provides traction during swims and landings.
Camera in a dry bag
A dry bag keeps valuables safe when you’re taking photos from the boat or wading ashore.