Wear old shoes in case the Terlingua Creek crossing is muddy. If the water here is deep and swift, do not cross. Once across the creek, the trail climbs a flight of concrete steps, then slopes gradually down to the river's edge inside the canyon. This is one of the narrowest places in the 7-mile long Santa Elena Canyon. Keep your distance from all wildlife encountered during your hike.
Any wildlife can be unpredictable.
Keep a distance of at least 100 yards. Each person is entitled to the same sense of discovery you experience when traveling the park trails. Panther Path Fifty-yard loop trail Easy walking. Self-guiding booklet available at the trailhead. This short trail winds through a desert garden in front of the visitor center at Panther Junction.