With reasonably mild winters, parts of Texas can offer paddlers some amazing opportunities to get out on our rivers. Our views are second-to-none, the peacefulness can hardly be beaten, and the exhilaration (translation: exercise) ranks right up there as well. Here are three great year-round river adventures that will appeal to kayakers throughout Central Texas.
Lifestyle
3 Year-Round River Adventures for Kayaking in Central Texas
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1. Colorado River at Austin
Photo: Pixabay
Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin is part of the dammed-up Colorado River and allows for eight put-in spots at boat launches from Festival Beach through Red Bud Isle. The views of the city skyline are unparalleled, not to mention the experiences you’ll have with nature, including turtles, bats, and swans. The current is sparse, which allows for side-excursions on Barton Creek or even some fishing if weather and time permits.
2. San Marcos River
Photo: Holloman Air Force Base
With mild rapids, cool and clear waters, and scenery that’s second-to-none, the San Marcos River from Martindale to Staples will take kayakers through rustic, country settings. Opportunities for blue heron and turtle sightings abound as you glide along a smooth current through portions lined with cypress trees. It’s a Texas kayaking pamphlet come-to-life!
3. Guadalupe River
Photo: Maxpixel
The trees and cliffs that line the four-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River, from Nichol’s Landing County Park to the Guadalupe Canoe Livery (just before U.S. 281) are easily enjoyed on this novice-style paddle. Kayakers can put-in just an hour-and-a-half from Austin and enjoy the Texas Hill Country scenery without issue.
