Paddle SMTX

After having to cancel twice, we finally got to do this. The customer service was amazing rescheduling our trips. We parked, got in a circle to hear some instructions, put our gear on and walked down to the boats. Our guide was on a paddle board with a flashlight pointing out critters and fish, while leading the way. It was a pretty mellow experience. The most challenging part was not bumping into our neighboring boats. The trip back is a bit more difficult (not much) as you row against the current. It was peaceful and fun to be out in the dark with the lights on in each boat. Go up front for a dark adventure or stay near the back of the group to see all the cool lights all along the way. I did both and preferred the back to the front. 👍🏼

Our teenagers enjoyed the experience, but thought it would be more “thrilling”. White water kayaking it is not. 🤣 A fun experience to do as beginners and with your family/friends.

It was my adult son and myself. I can’t really rate the guide. We could only hear him at the beginning. Ourselves and two other kayaks stayed in the back, otherwise you had a two kayaks bump into to you and tell you no cutting in front. These kayaks were women having a great time and flirting with the guide. The guide was very personable and charismatic. Despite that we enjoyed our trip. It was nice to be out on the San Marcos when it was quiet and serene. The going under the low bridge was neat. The paddling is easy (except for limited visibility in the dark) as there is no real current. I recommend you bring a head lamp with a red light and white light m. I wish we remembered ours. I would do it again but try to get in a smaller group. The single file puts you at a disadvantage being the back if the pack. All those working for Paddle SMX were very pleasant and helpful. 5 stars ️ to the staff. I took star off overall because not realizing not being about to hear guide.

By far one the best experience you can have at night. Our guide Cade was phenomenal he took his time to explain the history about the river and where to find bats and any wildlife we saw on the way. Cade was always there if you needed assistance and made himself available for any questions. You can tell all the guides love being on the river. They all have fun make the entire experience cool. To be on the river at night was also great. The water was super clear and you could see the fish and rice grass. I can highly recommend this place when you're looking for night time adventure and ask for Cade B. he is the best. What are you waiting on go kayaking as soon as you can don't wait 😉.

Note:
Wear swim trunks or be prepared to have a change of clothes. Your butt will get wet.
Park and meet at the blue van to check in and sign waiver if needed. At the van you will grab vest and paddle and wait for further instructions.
You will be given plenty of opportunities to take breaks and look around and take photos etc.

Did I mention ask for Cade he is the man.

This was an amazing experience, our tour guide was Avery and she is a historian from texas tech and she definitely knows her stuff! It was awesome getting to learn about the river while being able to experience the wildlife at night!!

Paddle SMTX was such a fun time! The glow kayaks were so unique and we had a great time. We saw lots of turtles, ducks and a beaver! It was so relaxing and the perfect length/time. Our guide Cade was fantastic. His history knowledge was well placed to give us little breaks from paddling, and he was a great help for those who were new to kayaking! A fun experience for a group of friends or family or both!