Paddle Point Creek Paddling Trail
Enjoy this 6.4-mile trail's beautiful scenery on Lake Ray Hubbard including views of Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles and various other wildlife. The lake serves as a recreational destination, fishing spot and water supply for the surrounding cities.
- Getting There
- Trail Description
- Map
- Fishing
- Wildlife & Ecology
- Private Property
- Events & Attractions
- Partnership
- Rentals & Shuttles
Getting There
Access Points:
Paddle Point Park 32° 53' 32.16" N, 96° 32' 12.85" W
Emergency Take-out Only 32° 54' 60.21" N, 96° 32' 41.74" W
From Downtown Dallas, take I-30 east. Take exit 64 to merge onto Dalrock Rd. Take a left turn at Miller Road and a right at the park entrance before the bridge. From Lewisville, take the 190 George Bush Turnpike east to Highway 66. Take a left on Miller Road and first left after the bridge to the park entrance.
Distance from nearest major cities:
- Austin - 214 miles
- Dallas - 15 miles
- Fort Worth - 51 miles
- Houston - 254 miles
- San Antonio - 293 miles
- Waco - 113 miles
Map
Trail Description and Landmarks
Trail Length: ~6.4 miles
Float Time: ~2 - 8 hours (depending on route paddler takes)
Please note: Paddlers can choose to do part of this trail for a shorter trip. Please be advised that strong winds can be a factor when paddling on Lake Ray Hubbard, so check wind conditions before heading out, as strong winds make navigating a canoe or kayak difficult. Should wind conditions increase while on the paddling trail, there is an emergency take-out located on the west side of Lake Ray Hubbard near the Rowlett Community Centre (this is an unimproved emergency take-out only).
Enjoy the variety of water and scenery on beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard, just 15 minutes east of downtown Dallas. Lake Ray Hubbard was impounded in 1968. The lake serves as a recreational destination, fishing spot and water supply for the surrounding cities. Paddlers can enjoy the wide open water, or can leisurely paddle along the shoreline to enjoy the shade offered by the tree-lined banks. An old bridge in the middle of the lake offers a convenient spot to tie off your canoe or kayak and enjoy a refreshing swim.
Fishing
Fishing is great throughout Lake Ray Hubbard. The lake supports numerous species including bass, catfish, carp and perch. Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits and light-line are recommended. Anglers will have the most success by fishing near the riprap areas near the road and train crossings.
Wildlife and Ecology
Lake Ray Hubbard is home to a variety of birds, including Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons. During migration periods, the lake is host to a wide variety of waterfowl, and is dominated by water related birds. Some areas around this reservoir have a fairly high number of coyotes, raccoons, skunks, squirrels and other mammals may be seen. Due to the constant water source, plenty of shelter from the surrounding riparian areas, and close proximity to residential areas, many generalist species thrive in this location.
Private Property
Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. This river is classified as navigable, which permits public use of the streambed and, if necessary, the banks to portage any hazard. Any other use of private river banks without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal Code (§30.05), criminal trespass occurs when one enters property after receiving notice not to enter. Notice includes verbal notice, a fence, sign(s), purple paint on posts or trees, or the visible presence of crops grown for human consumption.
Events & Attractions
For more information please see the Paddling Events Calendar.
Downtown Rowlett
Voted on the best places to live in America by Money Magazine. Main Street has a host of business with local flavor for visitors to enjoy. Each year Rowlett hosts the Downtown Special Events Series to celebrate the many holidays in a home town way. Guest can attend any of the local festivals including the Memorial Day Touch-A-Truck Event or the July Fireworks on Main Celebration.
Pecan Grove Park
A 27 acre park filled with lush Pecan Trees near the banks of Lake Ray Hubbard, this park houses the Rowlett Community Centre and the Wetzone Waterpark. Your family will have a fantastic afternoon walking the trails, visiting the waterpark and seeing how life was lived as you pass by the Coyle House, a historic home-site saved in the development of the George Bush Turnpike.
Waterview Golf Course
With its more than 15 acres of lakes and 1500 trees this championship golf course offers a challenging level of play for beginners and pros. Waterview was voted one of the Top 10 courses in the Dallas area by Avid Golfer Magazine.
Partnership
This trail was made possible through a partnership between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the City of Rowlett Parks and Recreation Department.
Shuttles & Rentals
Kayak Instruction, Inc.
Dave Holl, 972-412-7691www.kayakinstruct.com/kayakrental.html
Services offered: kayak rentals, kayak pick up and delivery, kayak sales, instruction
KayakPower
214-669-1663www.kayakpower.com
Offers kayak and canoe rentals, also guided trips and paddling instruction.
Paddle Bound River Outfitters
Jimmy and Edie Gray, 817-282-3135Colleyville, TX 76034
www.paddlebound.com
Services offered: Canoe/Kayak Sales, Rentals (canoes/kayaks, trailers, life jackets, paddles), Guided Trips & Instruction
Cutter Aquatics
Phone 817-354-6853www.CutterAquatics.com
Provider of Quality Instruction in Kayaking and Canoeing
ACA & USCA Certified Instruction
American Red Cross Authorized Provider
Mountain Sports
2025 W. Pioneer PkwyArlington, TX 76013-6005
1-800-805-9139 or 817-461-4503
http://www.mountainsports.com
Services offered: canoe and kayak sales