We will meet at the Zedler Mill take-out no later than 9:30am to organize the trip and shuttles. Zedler Mill is at above the dam in the City of Luling at 1170 S Laurel Ave, Luling, TX 78648.
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.
Download PDF version of map of the Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail 
(PDF 38.9 KB) which includes trail description and safety information.
Trail Length: 6.0 miles
Float Time: 2-4 hours (depending on water levels and flow rates)
This is a very gentle river in 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.
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.
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, and squirrels.
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 streambed 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.
Zedler Mill
Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail will also serve as a part of the river route for the longstanding Texas Water Safari race which 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 plans include a restaurant, museum, amphitheater, and pavilion.
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, TPWD and the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority.
Hazards - A little current, slippery boat ramp, fire ants, snakes and whatever else makes the great outdoors a little bit wild. Weather yet to be determined.
COVID - 19 risk seems now to be low, so no precautions will be asked of group. Individuals may chose to exercise caution, and will be respected in this.
Float Plan Details:
Departure Point
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Meet at take-out to organize shuttle at Zedler Mill parking area at 1170 S Laurel Ave, Luling, TX 78648. Luling is just off Interstate 10.
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 |
Paddle Location
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Luling Zedler Mill Paddling Trail on the San Marcos River |
| Trip Leader |
Lynne Andrus |
| Trip Assistants |
Paula Scotney-Castle |
| Trip Rating* |
1 |
| Ready to Launch at |
9:30 at take-out and ready to run shuttles |
| Duration (hours |
~ 4 hours, including breaks |
| Paddling Miles |
6 downstream |
| Emergency Initiator w/ Float Plan |
Lynn Vance (512)750-1758 |
| Emergency Phone #s |
City of Luling Police (830) 875-5407
ED - Ascension Seton 130 Hays St Luling TX 78648 |
| Latest Expected Return |
3 pm |
| Auto Description/Lic # |
TBD |
| Distance from Houston |
140 miles from downtown Houston
|
This is an American Canoe Association (ACA) sanctioned event. All participants in ACA-insured activities must wear properly-fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets (Personal Flotation Devices, or PFDs) at all times during on-water activities. Non-HASK participants must sign a waiver. See all rules at the bottom of this page.
Waivers - Please complete our easy to use online waiver if you are a HASK member who has not signed a waiver within the last 12 months or a non- HASK participant. Read the waiver carefully. You give up substantial rights when you sign it.
- Add Smartwaiver with email address “noreply@smartwaiver.com” to your address book to ensure emails do not go to junk/spam.
- Select a link below to complete the online waiver.
ACA-HASK Adult Waiver ACA-HASK Minor Waiver
- Respond to the “Confirm your E-Signature” email from ACA / HASK to confirm your email address. Wavier is now complete and valid.
- You will receive a confirmation email. Please download and print a copy of the waiver and bring it to the trip put-in.