Independence Paddling Trail

family

Visit Gonzales and enjoy this scenic 2.6-mile loop paddling trail on the Guadalupe River. This trail is perfect for beginners since no shuttle is needed.

Trail Access

US Highway 183 Bridge

Type:
Access Point
GPS Coordinates:
29.4841, -97.4482

In Gonzales, travel south on US Highway 183 to the bridge that crosses the Guadalupe River.  At the south end of the bridge turn right and continue to turn right until you see the river.  The access point is located next to the bridge.

dam

Trail Length: ~2.6 mile loop

Float Times: ~1-2 hours per trail (depending on water level, flow rate, and wind speed)

Trail Description

This two and a half mile Guadalupe River loop trail offers a pleasant paddling experience. Paddlers can put in at the 183 bridge and paddle upstream to below the dam (look for the turnaround sign on the righthand bank as you approach the hydro-electric dam and don’t paddle too close – you don’t want to get caught in the dam’s current!) and then float back to the bridge for a shorter, family-friendly paddle.  The tall riparian trees that line the banks along the way provide for pleasant shade, and there are great fishing opportunities.

Heavy rains upstream or in the vicinity can create dangerous flooding, and paddlers are advised to not use the trail during these times, as well as to stay away from the dam. Streamflow Data information is available to paddlers on the web.

Note: Use caution and stay back from the hydro-electric dam so as not to get caught in its current.

Private Property

Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. Use of this lake is open to the public and, if necessary, the banks/shoreline may be utilized to portage any hazard. Any other use of private banks without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal Code (§30.05), criminal trespass occurs when one enters property after receiving notice not to enter. Notice includes verbal notice, a fence, sign(s), purple paint on posts or trees, or the visible presence of crops grown for human consumption.

Trail Map

map

Things to Do and See

Fishing

RedtailedHawk

There are excellent fishing opportunities along this section of the Guadalupe River, which supports several species of catfish, sunfish, and largemouth and Guadalupe bass.  Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, and light line are recommended.

Wildlife and Ecology

The Guadalupe River is a slow moving river with scenic vegetation and great birdwatching and angling opportunities.  Paddlers can enjoy the shade of cypress, pecans, green ash, sycamores, and other large riparian trees that support a variety of songbirds, hawks, squirrels, raccoons, and other wildlife.

Rentals and Shuttles

Paddle With Style

standing

Martindale, Texas
Phone: (512)749-2350; Operate by reservation only. Able to accommodate large groups.
www.paddlewithstyle.com

Partnership

This trail was made possible through a partnership between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, City of Gonzales and Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.