Stubblefield Lake and West Fork of San Jacinto River | Stream Geomorphology Field Trip

Overview

Lake Stubblefield is the northern part of Conroe Lake and represents the transition segment between West Fork of San Jacinto River and Lake of Conroe. This is an easy paddling ecotour and geomorphology field trip about 5-7 miles long to explore the calm waters of this quiet, green, and beautiful environment, part of the Sam Houston National Forest. 

As we paddle along, we will observe natural features specific to deltas. We will discuss about sedimentary processes associated with streams, lakes, floods, wetlands, and the anthropologic impact on this environment, while enjoying many kinds of flowers and wildlife, including birds such as egrets, herons, owls, hawks, and water lilies. 

In 1966, the upstream part of West Fork of San Jacinto River (WFSJR) was blocked by an earth dam to form Lake Conroe, as an alternate drinking water reserve for Metropolitan Houston. Conroe Dam is 2 miles long and has 5 gates of 40 ft. wide each. The dam was completed in 3 years and cost $84 million to build. WFSJR is the main water-sediment supply that feeds into Lake Conroe. Lake Conroe was filled with water in 10 months. Lake Conroe facts: 26 miles long; 6 miles wide at its widest point; 20 ft. average depth; 75 ft. deep in the river channel; 160 miles of shoreline, with normal pool at 201 ft. above main sea level. Lake Conroe water quality is good, water from dam flows across Montgomery County into Lake Houston. 

Despite being relatively close to a major metropolitan area, exploring WFSJR by kayak is a unique experience for most people: you will be amazed by its natural beauty and it's a cool learning experience! 

Duration: 4-5 hours. 
Paddling Time: 3-4 hours. 
Paddling Distance: 5-7 miles.
 
Inclusions
Accommodation - Luxury
Awesome destination. Safe adventure. High chance of witnessing wildlife. Small group size. Family and beginners friendly. Local expertise. Experienced trip leader. Friendly, professional instructor.
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PERSONALIZED ACA CERTIFIED INSTRUCTION PROVIDED.
LUXURY PADDLING EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:
Sit-In Touring Kayak (solo or tandem), Adjustable Lifejacket, Lightweight Paddle, Dry Bag (small size, for car keys, phone, wallet, etc.).
We will start with on-land instruction and safety briefing, adjust the gear to your stature, and be on the water soon thereafter.
This activity requires a moderate fitness level. Our sit-in touring kayaks come in sizes and can accommodate paddlers up to 250 lbs. and 42-inch hip/pants size. Please let us know your approximate height and weight for us to bring you the correct size kayak and life jacket.
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ACCESS TO GROUP EQUIPMENT INCLUDES:
VHF Marine Radio, Paddle Float, Bilge Pump, First Aid Kit, Tow Belt, Lights
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WHAT TO BRING AND HOW TO DRESS
Bring several 33 oz. / 1L water bottles and energy drinks to take with you in the kayak; a granola bar and a small thermos would be nice. Dehydration and heat stroke are of the biggest concerns being on the water this time of the year. Leave a cold-water bottle and a snack in the car for you to have ready at the end of the event when you will probably be hungry, hot, tired but happy!
Bring with you but leave in the car a full set of dry clothing into change at the end, should that be needed, and a large towel to cover your car seat for a comfortable ride home.
We will take meaningful precautions to avoid unintended capsizes, however, small crafts are unstable and water dripping off the paddle into your lap is possible. Dress for immersion by dressing with clothes made of synthetic materials that are comfortable and dry out quickly. Avoid any cotton clothing. Dress with a long sleeve shirt and long pants to avoid insects and sunburns. For exposed skin, bring sunscreen and plan to apply often. Your feet will get wet up to knee. Water shoes, closed toed sandals, or old sneakers are a great kayaking choice. Crocs, flip-flops, hiking boots and rain boots are not good options. Bring a large brim hat with under chin strap and sunglasses. Bring paddling gloves or cycling/workout gloves to prevent blisters and sunburn.
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Paddling is a wonderful, lifelong, low-impact, human-powered sport. It's a form of soul therapy, an awesome mode of transportation to remote destinations, and a stealthy way to intimately experience wildlife and nature. Hiring us, you will learn about equipment, proper strokes and correct paddling technique, basics of water safety, trip planning, and how to have an enjoyable time on the water. This is a great way to build a new skill set or improve upon what you already know about paddling. Thank you for signing up!
WE WANT YOU TO HAVE A FUN LEARNING EXPERIENCE WHILE BEING COMFORTABLE AND SAFE!
Location
Forest Service Road 216, Huntsville, Huntsville, Texas, 77340, United States

Additional information

Ticket availability

Tickets are on sale until 2 days before the experience starts, but may sell out sooner, so don't miss out!

Group discounts

Receive a 10% discount off tickets for a group of 6 or more.