March 27, Big Bend National Park, Texas

At 7:30, the day started off clear & 17.5C then warmed up quickly. By the time we drove to the Hot Spring Ranger-led program at 10:00, it was already 28C.

After explaining some of the history of the area, which in the early 1900's was a "health resort" the Ranger led us to the "Hot Spring". This is what it usually looks like.




Hot spring water is considered old water, fossil water, ancient and irreplaceable. Heated by geothermal processes and emerging at 105° F., the water carries dissolved mineral salts reputed to have healing powers. The therapeutic value of heat has long been touted as a remedy of both body and soul. Be aware that some hot springs can burn you either with the scalding effects of heat or the caustic nature of the water chemistry.  J.O. Langford's impressive bathhouse is long gone; today the spring is contained by the foundation remains of the bathhouse, on the north bank of the Rio Grande. 

When the Rio Grande floods, muddy water flows over the spring, often submerging it. Once the flood has receded, the spring may be covered in rocks, mud or debris. This will require some digging to form a suitable space for bathing.

This is what it looked like when we visited, due to heavy rain last night somewhere upstream! The Rio Grande was 3 feet higher than it was yesterday. The remains of the wall separating the river from the Spring was flooded over.

Ken, Lynda & I decided to hike back to the campground on the Hot Springs trail, following the Rio Grande. Wonderful scenery as we scrambled over the rocky trail.

It was extremely hot & sunny - no shade on the trail - as we went up & over one rocky hill, down the other side, then up & down again and again. The 3 mile trail was all shale-type rock.

 

At times, it was difficult to find the trail, which was not too well marked.

As we approached the campground, very hot & thirsty, we were met by Marcel & a Ranger. We had been reported as missing! We were never so glad to see civilization after a challenging 1 3/4 hour hike!

After a long, cool shower, Marcel & I went on the 3/4 mile Nature Trail, which led to a wildlife viewing platform on a pond. 

At 6:30, Marcel got the BBQ out, then the wind picked up! Pollen was everywhere in thick clumps. Then it started to rain - thunder rumbled & lightening streaked across the sky. The temperature dropped from 28C to 18C in very short order. Heavy rain & hail fell for a bit, then just a light, steady rain continued into the night. It was the first rain we had seen since embarking on this adventure!