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Rio Grande Through Colorado Canyon
Location: Southwestern Texas, on the Mexican border (about 200 miles southeast of El Paso). Before entering Big Bend National Park, the Rio Grande tempts rafters with a short but vibrant run through Colorado Canyon. Length of trips: 9.5 to 21 miles in one or two days. Season: All year, although summer is hot; spring and fall are best. The water flow usually peaks in August, September, and October, when thunderstorms are common. Weather: In summer the canyon bakes in the desert heat, with temperatures topping 100°F. Thunderstorms often spark flash floods from May through October. Winter days can change from dry heat to cold, wet rain in just a few hours. Winter days are cool (50s and 60s), nights chilly. Milder temperatures in March, April, October, and November (40° to 60° at night, 80° to 95° during the day) make for a comfortable ride, although water levels are low. Lodging: Excellent primitive campsites on sandy beaches. Boats: Kayaks, oar boats, paddle rafts. Rapids: Class I. The temperature of the silty water fluctuates from below 50° in winter to above 80° in summer. Special features:
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