The River Road along the Rio Grande
River Road (FM 170) from Lajitas. Drive along the Rio Grande through Big Bend Ranch.
Drive El Camino del Rio in the morning light, winding along the Rio Grande between Lajitas and Presidio, with Mexico just across the river. Take turns picking pullouts, then walk down to the river at a picnic area. At the top of the Big Hill, stop and look back down the canyon. The photo to get: you at the top of the Big Hill with the river far below.
Good with just you, friends, family, and kids
Check before you go: weather and trail conditions
Limited Cell Service: Cell phone reception is unreliable or unavailable in this area. Download offline maps before visiting and do not rely on cellular service for navigation or emergencies.
Kids' version
River drive! Find each thing.
- The Rio Grande
- A tall canyon wall
- A cactus
- A roadrunner
- A selfie by the river!
Checked October 2026
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