How to Kayak in Texas Rivers

Purchase gear. Rising Phoenix Adventures, Rockwall Water Sports and Rowing Dock all offer kayaking rentals and lessons.

Choose a river. As of November 2009, the Brazos, Comal, Lower Colorado, Frio, Guadalupe, Llano, Neches, San Marcos and Rio Grande are the best Texas rivers for kayaking, according to TexasOutside.com.

Participate in a Texas Paddling Trails program, which offers eight coastal kayaking trails and 10 inland kayaking trails. These trails provide well-mapped kayaking excursions for everyone from novice to expert kayakers.

Opt for the Columbus Paddling Trail, which takes place on the Lower Colorado River. The trail stretches 6.5 miles and can last from two to five hours. Ideal for novice kayakers, the trail does not have any hazardous areas or rapids. Other trails include the Goliad Paddling Trail, on the San Antonio River. This 6.6-mile river trail stretches near the town of Goliad and lasts about 2 1/2 to 4 hours. Known for its scenic beauty, the Goliad Paddling Trail is the first inland paddling trail to include a state park.

Obtain maps of Texas rivers to plan your kayaking experience. Visit the Southwest Paddler website for maps and river reports. River descriptions are also available including information on the Medina River, which is 29.6 miles. The Medina River allows canoe and kayak boats on its waters (see Reference 2).