Similar to the Boquillas Canyon Trail near the Rio Grande Village, the Santa Elena Canyon Trail offers spectacular riverside views at the mouth of a canyon. The NPS considers this short hike a "Big Bend Classic," but warns that it may be "impassible when Terlingua Creek floods. When passable, "the trail ascends on paved steps to a vista, then descends back to the water's edge," to the point that canyon's walls seamlessly transition to the water's edge.

This classic short hike showcases the beauty of Boquillas Canyon - beginning with a stunning clifftop view into the canyon before leading visitors to the riverside. It's perfect for anyone visiting Rio Grande Village, and a nearby overlook of the canyon is a perfect alternative if you're not up for the hike. It's family-friendly, easy by most standards, and can be completed in less than 90 minutes.

Tuff Canyon is one of the classic short hikes in Big Bend National Park, and despite its name, it's actually quite easy! There are several views along the rim of the canyon, or you could venture further in along a spur trail for spectacular close-up views where the lava rock walls seamlessly transition into the canyon floor. Most versions of this hike are less than one mile and perfect for the entire family.

This hike to Balanced Rock is one of the best short hikes in Big Bend National Park. After a 6-mile drive down a remote yet well-maintained desert road, you can venture into the heart of the Grapevine Hills and into a stunning boulder field - home to the famous Balanced Rock. This 2-mile hike is perfect for anyone in the family, including younger children who will enjoy scrambling along the boulders.