Journey to the Springs

Paddle through Austin’s Barton Creek, explore Zilker Park, and dip in Barton Springs’ sacred waters. Register now for an unforgettable 2.5-mile adventure.

Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Barton Springs Pool - This 3-mile round trip urban guided historical and eco tour is an ideal way to experience Austin from various angles. As we paddle eastward towards Downtown Austin, you’ll discover 400 years of history along this segment of the Colorado River. On our way back, we’ll delve into the pristine waters of Barton Creek, showcasing a rich variety of plants, wildlife, and fish inhabiting the fourth largest cluster of natural springs in Texas. If weather and time allow, you can opt for a refreshing dip in Barton Springs, known for its famous 68-degree water!
What's Included
  • Premium kayak
  • Life jacket
  • Splash bag rentals (water resistant)
  • Kayak paddles
  • Bottled water
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Snacks
  • Private transportation
Additional Information

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Austin’s iconic Barton Creek on this 2.5-mile round-trip paddle accompanied by one of our experienced Tour Guides.

With Downtown Austin as your backdrop, you’ll paddle alongside the ever-popular Zilker Park on your journey to engage with the nature, wildlife, and natural history of Barton Springs – famous for its year-round 68-degree (f) water.

Weather permitting, participants are encouraged to put themselves in the shoes of ancestors long before them who considered the waters of Barton Creek and Barton Springs of a sacred nature, by taking a quick dip in the shallow area at the headwaters of the creek. This public departure requires advanced registration and does not exceed 25 participants.

Location
2418 Stratford Dr
Stratford Drive
Check-in at the main hut on the dock so that we know you've arrived. Your guide will meet you in the covered picnic area on the west side of our parking lot.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(26 Ratings)
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936allisonj
Aug 6, 2024
So much fun with Morgan on the river! - We had an awesome time rowing with Morgan! She is so knowledgeable of the areas history and plants and wildlife. We also saw a ton of turtles and even got to try out a couple rope swings. Morgan got some great pictures of the group too. It was the perfect bachelorette activity!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Emmacc1467me
Aug 2, 2024
Great Bachelorette activity - Morgan is the best! We had so much fun paddling to Barton Springs and jumping in the water. Would definitely go back to Rowing Dock!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ginnad2023
Aug 2, 2024
Amazing Kayak Tour! - Morgan was amazing - thank you! We had such a fun time at Barton Sorings and she made sure we stayed cool and had a great time!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
F5774hxalyssak
Jul 26, 2024
Journey to the Springs - Morgan was great and shared a lot of fun facts! We did journey to the springs, and had a chance to swim a bit by Barton Springs. So fun learning about the history of the area. Would definitely recommend and do again!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Global65924735673
Jul 26, 2024
Morgan is a rockstar! - We loved Morgan. She was wonderful! Full of information. The tour was the perfect amount of time. Saw some wildlife and enjoyed the cool spring water.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Daytrip20043209052
Jul 1, 2024
Kayaking in Austin - We had a great time on our kayaking tour. Riley was a wonderful guide who ensured that we were comfortable and had everything we needed. He was very knowledgeable of the area and allowed us to take the time to swim and relax. Awesome time!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Georgiams4700nj
Jul 1, 2024
Kayak Tour - Riley our tour guide was amazing! It was a great tour up the river. We stopped at a few places and had swims! He showed us the turtles and the fish and he was very knowledgeable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Felicity_c
Oct 6, 2023
Memorable Outing - A Must Do activity in Austin - As a South African family, our Kayaking experience with Trystan was truly delightful. He made an extra effort to ensure our children felt at ease, showing genuine interest and engaging with them. The experience offered a unique view of Austin from the river, combining history, beauty, and a deep appreciation for nature amidst the city's hustle and bustle. We particularly enjoyed the refreshing swim in the spring water, while Trystan captured wonderful moments for us to cherish. A great outing for us all!
Review provided by Viator
42jeffreym
Aug 30, 2023
Great Adventure - We had a great kayak adventure, and our guides, Alex and Leo to an amazing job, sharing facts about the area and the bats as well.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sandra_b
Aug 29, 2023
Fun Kayaking in Austin - Cyrus gave us a memorable experience. He explained all about the area - water, trees, birds, animals, fish and answered all our questions. By the Barton Springs pool we got to go in the water, which was very cool and refreshing. It was a fun experience and Cyrus was an excellent guide!!! Thank you!!!
Review provided by Viator
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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