It's next to impossible to reach the river. It's suggested by park staff not to hike to the river due to pools of water and strenuous climbing in parts of the canyon. From the trailhead to the entrance of Closed Canyon you can find typical Chihuahuan desert species.

Big Bend Ranch State Park is a huge remote park featuring rugged mountains, steep canyons, amazing views, and solitude in a high desert setting. The park stretches along the Rio Grande in far west Texas, on the U.S.-Mexico border.

In warm weather months, be prepared for extreme summer heat. Temperatures typically exceed 100 degrees by late morning and can reach as high as 130 degrees in the sun. They remain at dangerous levels even after sunset. Carry plenty of extra water on the trails, and stay off trails in the afternoon. 

The park has 238 miles of multi-use trails, 70 miles of unmaintained dirt roads in high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles. The scenic Camino del Rio (FM 170) along the  Rio Grande offers one of the most scenic drives in Texas and rivals if not exceeds Big Bend National Park.

All campsites (except backcountry) can be reached by vehicle. Some roads require four-wheel-drive or high clearance. Campsites offer solitude and great vistas; all (except backcountry) offer some camp amenities. Lodging is available at the Sauceda Bunkhouse.

The Big Bend Loop is a part of the Texas Parks and Wildlife's, Great Texas Wildlife Trails, Far West Texas Wildlife Trail.