theresa_n_jackson
Dec 2020
We had a great time on our Boomerang excursion. It was important to me that we explore Santa Elena Canyon on our little adventure. We were warned in advanced about the low water height and CFS, but I was determined. Big Bend Boating and Hiking was so accommodating, which I truly appreciate.
On the Santa Elena Canyon Boomerang, you paddle your kayaks upstream for about 3 miles then float back (you could go further if you are more experienced and faster). There are several locations that require you to get out and walk in ~1 foot deep water. It took us about 2 hours to make it to Smuggler’s Cave and back.
This time of year the sun does not reach the canyon floor so there is no hope of drying out. It was a little chilly at first, but when we got wet, it was freezing. That doesn’t mean we didn’t have an amazing adventure. We just packed it in a little early.
Before you start, you need to be able to help haul the kayaks down to the river (30-50 pounds x 1/4 mile)... and back up after your trip.
Hiking upstream for 3 miles takes a fair amount of arm strength. I’ve only kayaked a couple times and between our novice inability to keep the boat straight and the current... I bet we paddled 5 miles. 🤣
You can not wear enough layers. I had on 2 under armour cold gear shirts, a mostly water proof down coat, and 2 pairs of wool socks. My gloves were soaked by 1/3 of the way in (I wish I had brought two more pairs). The company gave us water boots and wet bags, but by the end of the trip, water had spilled into our boots, lol.
Again, we had a GREAT time, and I highly recommend this company and Santa Elena Canyon!!!