Canoeing
By Kayla Meyertons
Read our feature on the Texas Water Safari in this issue and you might think that canoeing is grueling and exhausting. In reality, canoeing can be the gentlest of river or lake recreations — it all depends on the water. While small children (in life jackets!) can enjoy a serene ride down a calm stream, enthusiasts may instead seek to paddle their way through the wildest rapids.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has partnered with communities to offer inland and coastal paddling trails. Be sure to check approximate float times and respective local weather conditions when planning a trip. On inland trails, check out the flow rate; it can vary from day to day. You don’t want to get caught unaware by rising, swift water, especially if you’re a novice.
Stay on the river and respect landowners by not trespassing on private property.
Canoe rentals, also called liveries, are often available at popular canoeing destinations. Children under 13 must wear life jackets when their boats are not beached, tied-up or anchored.
Need some instruction to get started? The Texas Outdoor Family program offers great weekend camping opportunities at parks around the state, and many include paddling. June workshops are already full, so sign up in advance at tpwd.texas.gov/calendar/paddling.
Check tpwd.texas.gov/paddlingtrails for maps, river guides, events and more information about Texas paddling trails.
Paddling Trails
What to Bring
• Life jacket
• Water shoes
• Sun protection
• Food & water
• Waterproof bag
• Trash bag
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