Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail

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Located on the San Marcos River near the city of Luling, this six-mile river trail can be floated in two to four hours. Paddlers will enjoy a gentle family-friendly ride on this quiet river lined with beautiful trees and wildlife.

Trail Access

State Highway 90 River Crossing

Type:
Put In
GPS Coordinates:
29.6679, -97.6999

Located just Southeast of where Highway 90 crosses the San Marcos River, approximately 5 miles west of Luling.

Parking is available at both locations and a shuttle vehicle can be left free of charge at either site.

Zedler Mill Park

Type:
Take Out
GPS Coordinates:
29.6671, -97.6519

Off of Highway 80 (Magnolia Ave.) across the river from the historic Zedler Mill, which is located within the Luling City limits. There is a dam beyond the mill, so pay close attention so as not to pass this take-out.

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Trail Length: 6.0 miles

Float Time: 2-4 hours (depending on water levels and flow rates)

Trail Description

This is a very gentle river in normal conditions, with a variety of water types present, including small (typically Class I) rapids and an abundance of clear, quiet pools. Although there are no man-made obstructions on this segment of the river, snags and log-jams are numerous and special care should be taken in navigating these sections, especially when water levels are low.

Private Property

Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. The San Marcos River is classified as navigable, which permits public use of the streambed and, if necessary, the banks to portage any hazard. Any other use of private river banks without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal Code (§30.05), criminal trespassing occurs when one enters property that is fenced, posted by signs, marked with purple paint on posts or trees or when one enters property after receiving verbal notice from the landowner.

Trail Map

map_lulingzedlermill

Things to Do and See

Fishing

This section of the river supports largemouth and smallmouth bass, gar, and a variety of sunfish and catfish. Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits and light line are recommended.

Wildlife and Ecology

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The San Marcos River corridor supports a diversity of plants and animals. It is a premier birding destination with a variety of migratory species visiting the area. Sightings include osprey, egrets, herons, kingfishers, hawks, sandpipers, phoebes, and turkeys. You will see native cypress, oak, and pecan trees, as well as many non-native tree and plant species. Common wildlife encountered are deer, armadillos, and squirrels.

Rentals and Shuttles

Paddle With Style

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

Rising Phoenix Adventures

Kayak and Canoe Rentals
Shuttles and Guides
Phone: (512) 677-2305
Bastrop, Texas
www.risingphoenixadventures.com

Spencer Canoes

9515 FM 1978
Martindale, Texas 78655
Phone: (512) 357-6113

T.G. Canoe Livery

402 Pecan Park Drive
San Marcos, Texas 78666
Phone: (512) 353-3946
www.tgcanoe.com (shuttles for larger groups only; call for details)

Partnership

This paddling trail was made possible by a cooperative partnership of the City of Luling, the Zedler-Mill Steering Committee, the Luling Economic Development Board, TPWD and the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.