Buffalo Bayou Paddling Trail

The Buffalo Bayou runs through central Houston. There is a 26-mile section that runs from below the Addicks Dam at Highway 6 to Allen’s Landing in the center of the city. Allen’s Landing is recognized as the birthplace of Houston and served as the city’s first wharf.

Texas Parks and Wildlife have tried to establish this paddling trail. The map shows ten viable launch points, but development has been hampered by flooding, especially Hurricane Harvey. At various times and locations, there have been canoe rentals and shuttling services. This adventure joined my list as soon as I heard about it. We had a two-seat kayak. It took being locked down during COVID that led to my first exploration. That first adventure and the subsequent ones are described below, and I look forward to returning to these peaceful waters!