Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River - River Mileages & Estimated Days Required (U.S. National Park Service)

NPS/Big Bend National Park

Having a tough time in the Upper Madison Falls.

The charts below provide basic distance and estimated time for float trips on the Rio Grande. These calculations are estimates only. The feasibility of a particular trip varies with the season and river level. Always check current conditions before planning your float trip.

Current Conditions
Rio Grande Water Levels: IBWC | NOAA
For current weather conditions, call Big Bend National Park at (432) 477-2251 or read the Daily Report.

River maps and guides are available at the BBNHA Book Store.

River Mileages
Big Bend Area and Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River [42k PDF File]
This chart provides basic distance and estimated time for float trips on the Rio Grande from Presidio to Langtry. The number of days estimated for each trip given certain safety and pleasure considerations, e.g. layover days, extended trip lengths, bad weather and injuries. Fifteen to twenty miles per day is a normal pace on the Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River.

River Mileages
Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River—Lower Canyons [44k PDF File]
This chart provides basic distance and estimated time for float trips from Heath Canyon to Dryden Crossing. The number of days estimated for each segment is given certain safety and pleasure considerations, e.g. layover days, extended trip lengths, bad weather and injuries. Fifteen to twenty miles per day is a normal pace in the Lower Canyons.