K: After our first night of camping with friends, Brandon and I set out for a hike on the Santa Elena trail. In my opinion, this is the most scenic trail in all of Big Bend. We went last year and I knew that we’d have to take our friends this time around so that they could enjoy the jaw-dropping views of this slot canyon. It’s a fairly short hike (about an hour and a half) and it did not disappoint the second time around.
B: I am a true Texas boy, loving all aspects of the state, including the state bluebonnet flower. This lupine flower however, a close relative of the bluebonnet, might top the charts. After seasonal rains, fields of the deep purple flowers pop up in bunches all throughout the park – a truly breathtaking sight to behold.
B: Geologically speaking, Santa Elena Canyon was formed first by a large fault event followed by the continual erosion from the Rio Grande. This trail is quite magical – cool, calm winds pass through the shaded canyon as you walk alongside the Rio Grande. One side of the canyon represents Mexico and the other represents the United States – the two countries separated by 100 yards of knee-deep water.
K: Brandon and I love spending time outdoors, surrounded by nature. Give us a comment below on any great hiking trails or parks that you’ve been to (in Texas or out of state!). We’re looking for our next adventure!
On Brandon: Old Navy tee, Patagonia pullover, Banana Republic pants, Sperry Top Sider shoes, Persol sunglasses