By DAVID STONE
The Belton Journal
Texas Parks & Wildlife has launched a new website that locates and provides in-depth information on the state’s 81 certified paddling trails, including a popular three-pronged trail at Lake Belton.
The Morgan’s Point Resort trail was designated by Texas Parks & Wildlife in 2013 and is steeped in history. In addition to kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing, it’s also known for fishing and bird watching.
The Morgan’s Point Resort Paddling Trail actually consists of three separate segments, and most paddlers complete each portion in one to three hours.
The Tanyard Springs Trail explores inlets around Morgan’s Point Marina. The trail essentially makes a loop with the marina serving as the starting and finishing points. Paddlers can also access this trail from Kleypas Park.
The Camp Kachina Trail follows the shoreline from Kleypas Park, around the Camp Kachina peninsula to Rogers Park. Paddlers are rewarded with stunning views of the lake and limestone bluffs.
The third trail — the Mother Neff Trail — begins and ends at Rogers park, crosses the lake and explores inlets and protective coves north of Morgan’s Point Resort. Despite its name, the trail does not go to Mother Neff State Park.
The rocky shoreline and tall bluffs create stunning backdrops when paddling along the Morgan’s Point Resort trails. Paddlers can choose to do any of these three trails, or portions of them for a shorter trip. The Tanyard Springs and Mother Neff trails offer quiet, secluded trips, while the Camp Kachina Trail offers expansive lake views.
Now for a little history: The Tanyard Springs Trail is named after the small community of Tanyard Springs, which rests below the waters of Lake Belton.
Before the Leon River was dammed in the 1950s — it was dedicated in 1954 — most of this stretch of the Leon was known as Tennessee Valley. It was originally occupied by settlers from Tennessee, and the natural beauty of the area apparently reminded them of home.
In the 1860s, ’70s and ’80s, the Chisholm Trail cut through the area, and there are still signs of that traffic today. Wagon tracks worn in limestone rock can be found on the shoreline near the Tanyard Springs trail.
Many paddlers on the Morgan’s Point trails take fishing breaks along their way. Largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, smallmouth bass, white bass, white crappie, and channel and blue catfish are common catches.
While paddling, fishing and enjoying lake views, be sure to keep an eye on shore for the abundant wildlife in the area. Herds of white-tailed deer, squirrels, gray and red fox, and armadillos are common sights — especially the deer.
If bird watching is your thing, you just might think you are in heaven. A variety of songbirds and waterfowl are common on the lake, and lucky paddlers may get a glimpse of wild turkeys, osprey and bald eagles.
The website — https://tpwd.texas.gov/boating/paddling-trails/ — is designed to give paddlers innovative tools to make the most of their adventures on the water.
“Whether you’re looking for a tranquil afternoon getaway or an exciting paddling challenge, this resource is your gateway to finding and enjoying the perfect paddling trail,” said Shelly Plante, TP&W nature tourism manager.
“We are excited about showcasing all the wonderful paddling experiences available throughout the state of Texas, and this newly designed website makes it simple for folks to find their perfect fit,” Plante said.
Information on the website includes trail length, estimated paddling time and what paddlers can expect along each route. The website also highlights local wildlife viewing and fishing opportunities for each trail and provides information on nearby canoe and kayak rental services to streamline the planning process.
The new, interactive “Texas Paddling Trail Finder” application enables paddlers to search for trails by water body or location. The mapping tool allows visitors to visualize their options and select the perfect paddling destination based on the area of the state or water body they want to explore.
Other helpful resources include a frequently asked questions section, flow gauges and conservation tips. Each trail on the website also features photos and detailed maps to aid in the navigation and planning process.
“With detailed trail information and an interactive map, planning your paddling trips is more straightforward than ever,” added Plante. “Knowing what to expect, including wildlife and fishing options, enriches the preparation process and the adventure.”
