Most of the activities are not available inside the parks but are available in the towns near the parks. The Rio Grande, or El Rio Bravo del Norte, borders Big Bend National Park for 118 miles. A 1978 Act created the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River and charged the National Park Service to care for an additional 127 miles downstream from the park. Canyonlands The Colorado and Green Rivers have played a large role in shaping the landscape of Canyonlands, and both offer a unique way to visit the park's backcountry. Some companies offer partial trips ending at, or starting from, Phantom Ranch, which is accessible only by trail from Grand Canyon Village or the North Rim.
Partial trips are also available from other points along the river.
Grand Teton Floating the Snake River offers a chance to experience an outstanding natural area. Flowing west from its source in the Teton Wilderness, the river enters Yellowstone National Park, then flows south through the John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway, and into Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park. Regaining its free-flowing character at the Jackson Lake Dam, the river winds through the park. A Guide to 75 Hikes from Camps on the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park.