RIO GRANDE VILLAGE

This area, though out of the way, is a mine of activities. There's a very short trail, the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, which allows you to observe a huge number of birds over a distance of one kilometer. It takes about 30 minutes to complete. Boquillas Canyon, the park's longest canyon, borders Rio Grande Village. The road leading to it is magnificent. Also worth a visit are the park's small hot springs. These cement baths are remnants of the Langford Bathhouse, which operated here over 100 years ago. Access is only permitted during the day. To get to these natural hot springs, you need to follow a 3 km trail, the entrance to which is about 5 km before you reach Rio Grande Village from Panther Junction (you can also start this trail from Daniel's Ranch). This area has been further developed with the reopening of the border at Boquillas, Mexico. Excursions are organized to the village of Boquillas on the Mexican side. U.S. dollars are allowed. After crossing the port of entry, visitors are transported across the Rio Grande on a small boat for the modest price of US$5 round trip. Once across the river, you have the option of walking to the village, 1/2 mile away, or paying an additional fee to ride on the back of a donkey, or by car. Don't forget your passport if you're keen on this Mexican excursion. A fun way to cross the border.