Elm Fork Trinity, Five Lakes, McInnish Park
A popular launch site for the Elm Fork of the Trinity River is at McInnish Park in Carrollton. A google map of the area shows several small lakes nearby (Lost Lake, Hidden Lake), and if water levels are right it is possible to paddle through all of these using only a few short portages (shown as yellow lines on map above). These lakes can also be accessed by going up Denton Creek a few hundred yards or so and turning right into a small entry channel. The route shown in the map is arbitrary, just hitting everything one after another. It first goes up the Elm Fork into the small eastern lake near Pres. George Bush Turnpike (PGBT), then crosses back to do the four lakes on the other side. These lakes are a change of pace from the typical up to Hebron and back route. The scenery is pretty decent for being nested in an urban area, although there are a lot of big utility lines. There are a couple tunnels as well but whether you can go through depends on water levels. The western lake adjoins the Dallas Gun Club and, as they are closed Monday and Tuesday (as far as I know), those would be the best days to avoid getting shot.
Above: Goes under PGBT, I went through and back.
Above: One of the short portages.
Above: Water on the Elm Fork was pretty high this trip.
Above: Another tunnel.
www.SawdustRiver.com 