Banta Shut-in is a spot many of heard of but far fewer ever journey to. Several routes lead to its vicinity from all points of the compass, but each to some degree can be like threading the eye of a needle.

A topographical map and the ability to read it comes in real handy, because those elevation lines and how they are spaced are key to guiding your way through. Yet getting there is only about half the challenge, you have to know where and how to enter Tornillo Creek either from above or below.

Now I have approached this picturesque crevice from more than one direction and can tell you the same general rules apply here as traveling anywhere else in the lower Big Bend: The short way is the hard way and the easy way is usually the longest.

You can also stumble upon the occasional hard as well as long route, which is why you need to know something about this country and be able to read those maps. And remember this, do not go there when it is hot or a chance of rain is likely. Finally, don’t even think about trying to navigate the general vicinity at night.

In all cases, bad ju-ju awaits you.

On this trip we launched from the K-bar number two, angling for Estufa Spring and the old John Rice campsite. From there we would journey down to the shut in via Estufa Canyon. This is one of those longer routes but also easier, especially if you know some game trails to help shave off the distance.

Zig-zagging down creek beds in this country always brings a surprise or two, as well as multiple reminders of those who came before. Almost invariably you’ll be distracted, with a side trip or two to satisfy the curiosity. After all, you may never pass this way again.

We entered the cut from downstream after taking one of those game trail shortcuts. Again, doing so is part of the challenge as you are surrounded by tough, unforgiving ground. The elevation changes are not that significant but with plenty of ups and downs, loose rocks, washouts and go arounds. And yeah, some of those ups and downs are straight up and straight down.

Making your way through the chasm itself is an unforgettable experience. Slabs of rock teeter along the rims of the walls, and the floor provides mute testimony that they do fall down on occasion. In some spots the walls close in until the crevice is only a few yards across, and any sound made carries an echo.

Banta Shut-in is known as a reliable water source, so much so you there can be the need for a bit of wading. This was not one of those times, our weather has been somewhat dry this spring and the tinajas have been lacking.

What lies at the head of the crevice invariably calls for some photos, such as the one you see here. There is always water and often enough it flows a short distance before burrowing under the sand and gravel again.

We took our photographs and rested a bit, enjoying the sereneness and natural beauty before tackling the return trek. It was nine miles back the way we came in and it was already mid-afternoon.

But I just happen to know this shortcut…

God bless to all,

Ben

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