Santa Eleana Canyon

The morning started off a little overcast but looked like a perfect day to hike and tour. We headed up the main road in the park, past Panther Junction and turned our Ruby Jewel Silverado westward. It was going to be about a thirty mile ride. As the elevation went up we noticed a difference in the rocks and the appearance of more bushes, free range livestock from a few ranches in the park and fewer cactus.

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I just thought this pile of boulders was just plopped on this hill

 

The Sam Neil Ranch was a one time prosperous cattle ranch. All that remains is the foundation of the house, some out buildings and a working well still pumping some water providing a fresh drink to critters in the area.

 

 

The foundation of the house. Welcome.

 

These were once vigorous Pecan and Fig trees.

 

This is a view of the Window we showed you in another post. Prettier on other side, I think.

 

These are called Mule Ears, they can be seen from several locations in Big Bend.

 

Bill decided to try them on. 

 

I love the change in the colors as the light changes during the day. Photos really don't do them justice.

 

Approaching the Canyon

 

Getting ready to walk in the Santa Eleana Canyon

 

 

 

Right down at the water in the canyon. It was also pretty chilly down there.

 

This is the farthest we could go

 

So beautiful.

 

We ran into the handy work of this beaver. Pretty strong choppers

 

More handy work.

 

This looks like sand but it isn't. It's limestone, carvable by the water flowing in the park. I don't know how, I never saw any water. 

 Tomorrow we move to the Maverick Ranch RV Park 

This campground is located outside Big Bend National Park on the western side. We want to spend some time in the Big Bend State Park. No camping there so we will stay in Lajitas outside the state park.

They are predicting more great weather.

Hope you all are well. 

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