12 The Trinity By Water: Trinity Trails, Fort Worth TX

A few weeks ago, I was interested in finding a new outdoor activity to start off my Sunday morning. I have been doing a lot of walking, both around campus and on the Trinity Trails, but I was ready for something new to mix things up. While walking and running on the Trinity in the past, I had often seen people kayaking on the river below me. Back home in Massachusetts and on many of my family vacations, my parents, sister, and I have often rented kayaks as well. Therefore I figured, why not give it a try here in Texas too!

My first mission was finding a place to rent kayaks as well as the best location to drop them into the water. Being that I have a small car, I needed a place where I would't have to drive them anywhere. Eventually I came across a place called Backwoods Paddlesports at Panther Island. It was the perfect place and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to do a little kayaking.

We arrived at the rental location, checked in, signed a short waiver, grabbed some life jackets and paddles, and immediately hopped into our kayaks on the Trinity River.

One of the employees at the rental location warned us before heading out that it was a pretty windy day out on the river and directed us in the best direction to paddle. The day definitely started off a little windy and the water was slightly choppy. However, that didn't stop anyone from enjoying the beautiful morning! There were many other people in kayaks or even on stand-up paddle boards who we passed, everyone having a great time with friends and family out on the water. 

Although it was a little windy and I had never kayaked on a river before (I am more used to paddling in lakes) the experience was super laid-back and relaxed. We took our time and pretty much just coasted down the river, thoroughly enjoying our Sunday morning. It didn't take long before the wind died down and the river became smooth like glass. Below is one of my favorite photos I took while out on the water because it shows how calm the river became. I also love how simplistic and beautiful the view is, with nothing really in the frame besides the few trees.

As we continued our paddle, the scenery changed a bit as we passed under bridges, through areas with greater foliage, and towards the banks of the river. One moment that was really cool for me was being able to get so close to an egret who was sitting on the edge of the water, looking for fish. I have always seen these birds on the Trinity while walking or running on the trails, however it is impossible to get close to them or take a good photo. However, being in the water at eye-level with one gave me this awesome opportunity.

As we eventually turned around and began heading back towards our starting point, another view surprised me. Getting the close to the end of our paddle, I was surprised to see such a good view of downtown Fort Worth. The contrast of the river and greenery with the large buildings sitting in the background was a pretty awesome view in my opinion and I really enjoyed it. It reminded me that even in a city, you can always find ways to enjoy the nature around you.

Overall, our little kayaking trip was the perfect start to our Sunday. Getting up slightly early for this morning out on the water put me in a great mood for the rest of the day and I truly felt like I started the day off on the right foot. Additionally, it was really cool to get to experience the Trinity from a different perfective. For three years I have been walking and running the trails, looking down at the river below. By actually getting out on the water, I was able to appreciate a whole new part of the Trinity that I had never before. Kayaking was a great outdoor activity that everyone should definitely try, I know I will be getting out on the Trinity River again in the near future for sure!