Millions of people
in the Houston metropolitan area cross over streams and bayous every
day never knowing what sort of recreational opportunities are right
in their own backyards. Although most of our natural drainage systems
have been altered, some drastically, it is possible to use many of these
waterways for canoeing.
Described below are public areas to put in and take out a canoe or kayak,
and several recommended trips. To make locating each route easier, Harris County Key Map pages are given,
as are the names of pertinent parks and roads. Surprising to most people
will be the references to rapids, rock outcrops, waterfalls, older growth
trees, wonderful wildlife and other "forgottens" in our area.
There are trips in every area, in every type of habitat, including channels
altered by man. Some places already have canoe launches in use, some
places are just used, and others should be used.
Safety First!
Proper canoeing
skills must be mastered before trying any of these trips. Expect muddy
banks and steep slopes. Always portage around log-jams or manmade dams.
Do not canoe in high, turbulent water and get out if heavy rain starts.
Watch for snakes and alligators, bring a first aid and snakebite kit,
and mosquito repellent. Respect private property and the owners' rights
along your trip.
Keep in mind that stream and bayou conditions change continuously. Banks and channels that were in good condition when these routes were surveyed by BPA's paddlers may very well
be more difficult to navigate now. BPA also has no control over local governments and private property owners, so
be certain that suggested parking places are still legal before you leave your car.
Some area waterways
are meeting safe swimming standards occasionally, but swimming isn't
safe yet primarily due to high fecal coliform counts (bacteria in the
water). Plastic, styrofoam glass, metals, etc. can be found along banks
and floating in the water just begging to be removed. (Luckily, it can
be light enough to not ruin your trip and if you remove some it just
gets better.)
Most trips require
shuttling--if you cannot do a full trip, paddle around one of the input
or take out areas.
