The day after the snow in our area, Dec. 5, 2009, we made this paddle and the participants were impressed with the restaurant food, the ease of put-in and take-out, and the relaxed nature of the event. This is an easy, pleasant paddle down the wast fork of the San Jacinto river from River Grove Park to Lake Houston where we will paddle between islands and view waterfowl, deer and other wildlife. This paddle is well protected from wind and will be a very casual paddle. It is an out and back trip, so no shuttle is needed. After touring some of the lake islands and viewing the wildlife, we will paddle to a beach take-out beside Zammitti's Restaurant where we will dine on the outside deck overlooking the water. There are facilities available at the restaurant and it is a very casual place, with excellent food and lunch specials. This trip is great for recreational kayakers and photographers (birders), although keep in mind the trip length of about 8 miles.
After lunch we will return to the put-in at River Grove Park, a distance of only about 2.5 miles.
We should be back to the put-in before 2:30 PM.
Let's meet at 9 to launch at 9:30
Driving directions: Take US 59 north to Kingwood Drive (about 25 miles from downtown Houston). Exit at 59 to Kingwood Drive, turn right and travel about 2.2 miles to Woodland Hills Drive and turn right; River Grove Park is 1.6 mIles at the end of Woodland Hills Drive. (Deer Ridge Park will be on the right before reaching the end of Woodland Hills, which ends at River Grove Park). Allow about 40 minutes driving time from downtown Houston.
Hazards..........................: Possibly a little wind and boat traffic. Slippery launch sites.
Trip Leader……………......: John Grisaffi
HASK Trip Rating*………..: 1 (read-easy). If it's windy, the distance might make it a Level 2.
Ready to Launch at..........: River Grove Park, Kingwood by 9:30am
Duration…………………....: 5 hours
Paddling Miles……………..: 8 miles, maximum
Maximum participants…....: 16
Emergency #s, Leader #. ..: 281-714-7171, John Grisaffi -cell
Distance from Houston…. .: 30 miles
Fees (excluding ACA)…....: $0.00
* Trip ratings are only a guide. Actual conditions will vary with wind and other weather.
This event is conducted in partnership with the American Canoe Association. All participants must sign an ACA waiver of liability. Select Trip Rating on this website for trip ratings, gear requirements, and participant guidelines. All participants must wear a PFD and be able to perform a wet-exit. There is a $5 fee for participants who are not an ACA member