Come and Take It Trail (Kayaking)

More experienced paddlers can enjoy a longer 11-mile paddle down the Guadalupe River near Gonzales on this scenic paddling trail. Along the way you’ll pass the confluence of the San Marcos River with the Guadalupe River.

Trail Description and Landmarks

Trail Length: ~11 miles

Float Times: ~4-6 hours per trail (depending on water level, flow rate, and wind speed)

The Guadalupe River along the Come and Take It Paddling Trail is dammed in Gonzales, creating a relatively constant river level with a slow moving current. An interesting feature paddlers will experience along this trail is the confluence of the mighty Guadalupe River with the equally beautiful San Marcos River.  Tall riparian trees line the banks, and while there are not sandbars to pull over onto, paddlers can rest in the shade of the overhanging trees.

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:This trail is a long paddle and may be difficult for families with small children or for inexperienced paddlers due to the length of time on the river and lack of sandbars to stop and rest along the way. Take-out is before the hydro-electric dam, so keep alert for “Caution” sign alerting paddlers to take-out left before the dam.

Partnership

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

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