RIO GRANDE - SPRINGTIME IN THE DESERT -- The legendary Rio Grande, flowing through some of the most beautiful and desolate canyons on the continent, is one of the US’s premier wilderness rivers. Forming the long, wild Texas/Mexico border and cutting through rugged Big Bend country, it is still regarded as one of the last frontiers. The Lower Canyons are the most isolated and spectacular of all. Flowing east through rugged, desert terrain, the river is first characterized by massive buttes and peaks rising off the desert flats, which eventually give way to a succession of canyons - miles of sheer, subtly hued walls, at times thousands of feet high. Placid water and easy current alternate with short, technical rapids, virtually all which are runnable. In late March and early April it is springtime - cacti are flowering and the climate is perfect - hot and dry with tons of sunshine, no bugs and perfect swimming. Campsites reflect the diversity of the landscape ... and although tents are provided, many choose to simply sleep under the stars!