Zedler Mill Paddling Trail is Now Open!! 

Texas Paddling Trails

The Zedler Mill Paddling Trail is the first inland paddling trail in a network of coastal and inland trails.  This trail was made possible through a partnership with the Zedler Mill Foundation, the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, the City of Luling and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.  

Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail

Located on the San Marcos River near the city of Luling, this six-mile river trail can be floated in two to four hours. Paddlers will enjoy a gentle family-friendly ride on this quiet river lined with beautiful trees and wildlife.

Getting There

Put-in:

State Highway 90 River Crossing

GPS coordinates 29° 40' 4.465" N, 97° 41' 59.679" W

Take-out:

Zedler Mill

GPS coordinates 29° 40' 1.509" N, 97° 39' 6.915 W

The put-in for this paddling trail is located just Southeast of where Highway 90 crosses the San Marcos River, approximately 5 miles west of Luling. The take-out is at the park off of Highway 80 (Magnolia Ave.) across the river from the historic Zedler Mill, which is located within the Luling City limits. There is a dam beyond the mill, so pay close attention so as not to pass this take-out. Parking is available at both locations and a shuttle vehicle can be left free of charge at either site.

Distance from nearest major cities:

•San Marcos - 24 miles

•New Braunfels - 35 miles

•Austin - 44 miles

•San Antonio - 60 miles

•Houston - 140 miles

•Dallas - 241 miles

Trail Description and Landmarks

Trail Length: 6.0 miles

Float Time: 2-4 hours (depending on water levels and flow rates)

This is a gentle river under normal conditions, with a variety of water types present, including small (typically Class I) rapids and an abundance of clear, quiet pools. Although there are no man-made obstructions on this segment of the river, snags and log-jams are numerous and special care should be taken in navigating these sections, especially when water levels are low. 

Fishing

This section of the river supports largemouth and smallmouth bass, gar, and a variety of sunfish and catfish. Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits and light line are recommended.

Wildlife and Ecology

The San Marcos River corridor supports a diversity of plants and animals. It is a premier birding destination with a variety of migratory species visiting the area. Sightings include osprey, egrets, herons, kingfishers, hawks, sandpipers, phoebes, and turkeys. You will see native cypress, oak, and pecan trees, as well as many non-native tree and plant species. Common wildlife encountered are deer, armadillos, racoons, and squirrels.

Private Property

Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. The San Marcos River is classified as navigable, which permits public use of the stream bed and, if necessary, the banks to portage any hazard. Any other use of private river banks without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal Code (§30.05), criminal trespassing occurs when one enters property that is fenced, posted by signs, marked with purple paint on posts or trees, or when one enters property after receiving verbal notice from the landowner.

Events & Attractions

Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail will also serve as a part of the river route for the longstanding Texas Water Safari race which usually takes place in June of each year.

Luling Zedler Mill was built in 1874 as a gristmill, cotton gin, and sawmill. The historic mill and surrounding nine acres are owned by the City of Luling. Restoration included a museum, ampitheatre, and pavilion. 

Partnership

This paddling trail was made possible by a cooperative partnership of the City of Luling, the Zedler Mill Steering Committee, the Luling Economic Development Board, Texas Parks & Wildlife, and the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.