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This will be a leisurely float trip down a scenic (Class I) section of the Colorado River, at Columbus, TX. This section is occasionally called the Columbus Loop. The trip will cover approximately 6.1 miles of river and includes two islands, two sets of light rapids, and a creek that flows into the river halfway through the trip.
We will enter the river from the dock at Howell’s Canoe Livery and take out at Beason’s Park. Estimated float time is 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the water flow and the fishing. If the water is clear it will be a great time to try for bass on the fly rod. If the water is muddy go for the catfish. (Bring both rods and decide that morning.) Cummins Creek empties into the Colorado along the way. It offers great fishing and easy exploring.
Howell's is providing a meeting area in the morning and a ferry service back (bodies only no paddle craft) to the launch area in the afternoon. We'll use the meeting area before the launch to have a safety briefing on river conditions. Frank Howell will bring us back to our cars (safely parked in his fenced in area) after our paddle.
Some folks plan on adjourning to Schobels’, (a well known local dining establishment) before we start the trip home.
River Conditions: This portion of the Colorado River is considered as a light Class I river. It is mostly flat with two short sections of light rapids. However, a strong south wind can cause the river to become choppy and difficult to paddle. (What is a PACK trip without a little wind!) This is a consideration over two sections approximately a mile each.
If the river guage reading in Columbus exceeds 15.5 feet, we will call off the float trip for safety reasons. Do not start the trip if you are uncomfortable with the water conditions.
Wildlife Found Along the River: Bird life abounds along the river. The most visible are the kingfishers, herons, and egrets. There are also several pairs of American bald eagles that frequent the area. Though mainly nocturnal, there is a healthy population of beavers that inhabit this section of water. Other wildlife found along the river includes raccoons, opossums, skunks, squirrels, fox, nutria, snakes, turtles and deer.
A Little History:
The Colorado River is approximately 600 river miles long and is considered one of the great rivers of Texas. One of the first settlements along the river was Columbus, established in 1823. There is a rich history within this town and the river that surrounds it. As you travel along this section of the river, you will pass the old low water bridge and the remains of "The Wall". While doing so, try to visualize the many ferry crossings and the paddle wheelers that were once common place. In the mid-1800's there was a castle (Robson's Castle) built along the banks of the river, complete with a moat and running water. Allow yourself extra time to explore Cummins creek as you paddle under the trees in this peaceful body of water.
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