Introduction to Greens Bayou Paddling Trail
A 7.7 mile stretch of water on Greens Bayou in the heart of Houston has just been anointed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) as an official paddling trail. This exciting news comes just in time for a pleasant fall afternoon on the water. The TPWD nature tourism manager, Shelly Plante, expressed her thrill about adding the Greens Bayou trail to the Texas Paddling Trails Program, stating that it will help people connect to nature, especially since about a quarter of all Texans live within driving distance of this new trail.
About the Greens Bayou Trail
The Greens Bayou trail is a slow-moving and fairly easy trail that takes kayakers through the wilder parts of the urban environment. The waterway meanders from northwest Houston down toward the Houston Ship Channel, offering many coves and tributaries to explore. Kayakers can expect to see a variety of fish, birds, and reptiles that live on the water. Fishing is permitted with a license, but it’s essential to contact the Department of State Health Services for more information before eating fish caught on the bayou.
History and Development of the Trail
In 2018, improvements along the bayou were completed by the Houston Parks Board, making it easier to launch kayaks. The waterway was already a popular spot for avid paddlers, thanks to the Greens Bayou Regatta, which first took place in 2016. The completion of the trail was accomplished by a partnership between TPWD, Houston Parks Board, Greens Bayou Coalition, Houston Parks and Recreation Department, National Park Service, Bayou Preservation Association, North Belt Utility District, Parkway Utility District, and North Houston District.
Planning Your Visit
Official launching points can be found at Brock Adventure Park, Strickland Park, and Thomas Bell Foster Park. It’s essential to stick to these official launching points, as the bayou has steep banks and dense vegetation outside of these areas, making it hard to disembark. Boating equipment can be rented from Kayaking Texas and Pinky’s Kayak Rental. The TPWD says that individual parts of the trail can usually be navigated between 60-90 minutes.
Conclusion
The addition of the Greens Bayou trail to the Texas Paddling Trails Program is a significant milestone, making it the 90th paddling trail on the TPWD registry. With over 700 miles of navigable water now mapped, the program provides a handy guide for anyone wanting to make a day of boating. The Greens Bayou trail offers a unique opportunity for kayakers to explore the wilder parts of the urban environment, and its slow-moving and fairly easy trail makes it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced paddlers. So, grab your kayak and get ready to explore the Greens Bayou trail!
