Neches River, NWR, Hwy 79 Launch, down
Kayak paddle trail route map on the Neches River, starting at the Highway 79 Launch near the Neches River NWR. Another trip started at this launch and went upstream first; this one goes downstream first for about an hour and a half with a two hour return. The Neches River nr Neches USGS gage read about 110 cfs. This stretch is nice as it borders the Neches River NWR. Lots of logs and brush to avoid but only two get-out-of-the-boat portages. There was an unexpected low water dam downstream (see map) and rather than portage and continue it was a convenient turnaround point. The spillway launch can be accessed off of Hwy 79 by taking roads 354 and 3542. This could be a launch or takeout point about halfway between Highway 79 and Highway 84. But the last hundred yards of road before the river is pretty rough and would require a suitable vehicle. The day of this paddle the Neches NWR was closed for a special permit/lottery/draw type hunt. And when I returned to the Highway 79 launch I was examined (and set free) by a NWR Ranger who was looking for folks who were on the refuge hunting without authorization.
31.8929,-95.43101
Launch Site Google Maps Link
Above, and many below: Fall scenery on the Neches River.
Above: Gotta have some of this.
Above: The unexpected spillway from a downstream vantage point. This was the turnaround.
Above: Squeezing through the brush.