North Texas by Paddle
By Sydni Ellis
Hazy orange and pink light spreads like fire across the early morning sky as the sun slowly rises above the clouds. A late-summer sunrise is such a beautiful experience — especially since 6:30 a.m. is practically the only time you can comfortably be outside, thanks to the unbearable triple-digit temperatures that usually appear in the afternoons. What better place to admire this stunning view than from inside a kayak in the middle of a lake?
Paddling in a kayak or canoe offers a more intimate water experience than being in a boat. You feel closer to the water and to nature. They’re also more accessible, easier to transport from your truck to the lake, and cheaper to operate — no gas required — making them perfect for weekend adventures.
According to the Outdoor Foundation’s 2021 report, over 25 million Americans participated in paddling activities, such as kayaking and canoeing, on rivers, streams, lakes, and oceans. This number is likely to keep growing as more people seek outdoor activities close to home.
Think of paddling as a way to escape life’s daily stress and connect with nature — while also making for incredible Instagram photos! Check out a few local paddling trails to get started. (And find more details at Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Inland Paddling Trails webpage at [tpwd.texas.gov](https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/inland/).)
If you’ve lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for any length of time, you’ve probably seen the Trinity River. For most, it’s just something scenic to glance at while stuck in traffic on I-30. But thanks
to the work of the Trinity Coalition, it’s now home to the Trinity River Paddling Trail, which spans 130 river miles across nine cities, with access to three river tributaries.
Set out from one of 21 official launch sites, where you can paddle this ribbon of water through peaceful countryside or near the heart of the city. One option begins at Trammell Crow Park in Dallas, a 3.7-mile section of the trail with a mostly soft clay bottom. The launch site — also called the put-in — is a boat ramp connected to the parking lot. The exit point, or take-out, is a canoe launch at starboard (the right side of the canoe as you’re looking downstream) at Moore Park. Along the way, enjoy gorgeous views of downtown Dallas to your left.
Another great option is Trinity Park in Fort Worth. This 1.8-mile stretch of trail leads downstream to Panther Island, where the Clear and West Fork rivers meet. The put-in/take-out is a gently sloped sidewalk leading to a low-water dam. When you reach Panther Island, take a break: grab an ice cream cone, catch some live music, or join an outdoor yoga class before paddling back. Note that you’ll pass through two low-water dams, where you’ll either carry your kayak around (portage) or paddle through water chutes in the center.
Prefer wildlife spotting to city views? Head to the Beaver Pond Paddling Trail on Lake Lewisville. This easy, one-mile trail is great for beginners and early-morning paddlers alike. With some luck, you’ll spot herons, egrets, ducks, turtles, frogs, deer, fish, and blooming water lilies. While fishing isn’t permitted, you can stop at one of the 12 locations along the loop or simply float the morning away.
In Arlington, explore the 10.9-mile Lake Arlington Paddling Trail — the first flat-water paddling trail in Texas. Depending on your pace and water levels, this trail can take anywhere from three to six hours to complete. You can launch from three different parks: Richard Simpson Park, Eugene McCray Park, or Bowman Springs Park. Bring your gear if you enjoy fishing: white bass and catfish are especially active in summer.
If you’re up for a weekend getaway, visit the Grapevine Lake Paddling Trail. Paddle your way through three different routes ranging from 3.8 to 9.4 miles, launching from Meadowmere Park, Lakeview South, or Trawick Boat Ramp. In the evening, stay overnight at The Vineyards Campground and Cabins, which features fully furnished cabins and private lakefront beaches. Make a full weekend of it by shopping in Historic Downtown Grapevine or visiting Grapevine Botanical Gardens, Nash Farm, or the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.
Looking for something off the beaten path? Try the Chupacabra Point Paddling Trail in Runaway Bay. You’ll find three distinct 4-mile loops that each offer something different: Boons Creek, Coal Bed Creek, and Willow Creek. Even though they all begin at the same launch site at Blue Fathom/Chupacabra Point, the variety in plant life and bird species along each loop makes for a surprisingly unique experience.
Finally, Paddle Point Park Creek Trail in Rowlett is one of the area’s best-kept secrets — and I’m not just saying that because it’s near my hometown. This 6.4-mile trail on Lake Ray Hubbard is packed with stunning, photo-worthy spots. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and great blue herons. Two years ago, the trail was updated with a new boat ramp, dock, shaded picnic area, and additional trees. Insider tip: Paddle to the abandoned bridge in the middle of the lake, secure your kayak, and take a refreshing jump in the water!
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, an outdoor workout, or a weekend getaway, paddling offers a rewarding way to explore North Texas from a different perspective. Grab a kayak or canoe and set out for your next adventure — right in your own backyard.