Victoria Paddling Trail
The Chisholm Trail, Riverside Park, Mission Espiritu Santo, and Fort Saint Louis Sections are the four trails that make up the 25-mile Victoria Paddling Trail. Meandering along the Guadalupe River in the Coastal Region this trail is slower moving and bordered by scenic soft banks rather than the limestone bluffs of the Hill Country. This quiet reach can be paddled in multiple sections varying in lengths and time on the water.
Trail Access
FM 447/Nursery
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 28.8970, -97.1390
Riverside Park Boat Ramp
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 28.8246, -97.0153
Riverside Park
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 28.8060, -97.0160
South Street Access
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 28.7900, -97.0110
SH 77 Bridge (Emergency Access)
- Type:
- Emergency Access Only
- GPS Coordinates:
- 28.8310, -97.0610
Navigating the Trail
Chisholm Trail Section (Nursery to Boat Ramp):
13.1 miles, 4-6 hours
Riverside Park Section (Boat Ramp to PumpHouse):
4.25 miles, 1-3 hours
Mission Espiritu Santo Section (PumpHouse to South St):
1.5 miles, 1/2-1 hour
Fort Saint Louis Section (South St. to HWY 59):
6.2 miles, 2-4 hours
Trail Description
Float times depend on water levels and flow rates.
The Guadalupe River in the Coastal Region is a slower moving river that is bordered by scenic soft banks rather than the limestone bluffs of the Hill Country. This trail is a quiet reach, with several small riffles (fast flowing, shallow water). The presence of occasional sandbars may provide resting or birdwatching sites.
Trail Map
Things to Do and See
Fishing
This section of the river supports numerous catfish, Guadalupe bass, and sunfish. Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits and light-line are recommended.
Wildlife and Ecology
The Guadalupe 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 bald eagles, 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
Flow Paddle Co.
Kayaks and shuttle service
(361) 935-2618
Partnership
This trail was made possible through a partnership between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, Coastal Bend Paddlers, and the City of Victoria.