AUSTIN SIGHTSEEING TOUR FIELD GUIDE
On the Water to Congress Bridge: Kayaking Among Over 1.5 Million Urban Bats
A verified 2-hour guided kayak outing from a launch at 7 East Ave that brings paddlers to Austin’s Congress Bridge to observe the largest urban bat colony in the United States.
On the Water to Congress Bridge: Kayaking Among Over 1.5 Million Urban Bats.
This is a compact, two-hour kayaking adventure that follows the river to Austin’s historic Congress Bridge, where the city hosts the largest urban bat colony in the country—more than 1.5 million bats—delivered with on-water interpretation from an experienced guide.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
America’s largest urban bat colony
The centerpiece of the trip is the opportunity to observe Congress Bridge’s enormous urban bat population—over 1.5 million animals—while learning about their natural history from your guide.
Expert-guided kayaking to the bridge
The outing is a guided kayaking experience that brings participants downriver to the bridge, combining paddling with interpretation from a knowledgeable local guide.
River passage and close-up views of the bridge
The trip follows the river toward Congress Bridge, offering scenic river views along the way while you prepare to observe the bat colony in its urban habitat.
What the day feels like
What it feels like
Over approximately two hours you launch from the river slip, paddle with an experienced guide, and approach Austin’s Congress Bridge to observe its enormous urban bat colony—an accessible, interpretive outing that combines outdoor activity with wildlife viewing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing is approximately 2 hours long.
Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing—shorts or a swimsuit, light layers—and water shoes or footwear you don’t mind getting wet. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and a small towel. Bring water or purchase bottled water on-site.
The tour includes a knowledgeable guide plus kayak, safety equipment and paddles.
The trip launches from the river slip at 7 East Ave in Austin; additional logistical details are provided in your confirmation email.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
Where do we meet and launch?
The group launches from the river slip located at 7 East Ave in Austin; more specific meeting details arrive in your confirmation email.
What is included in the tour price?
Included are a knowledgeable guide, a kayak, safety equipment and paddles.
What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothing such as shorts or a swimsuit, light layers, and water-friendly shoes. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a small towel; you may bring water or purchase bottled water.
Will I get wet?
Paddling can result in getting wet at times; bringing water-friendly footwear and a towel is recommended.
How many bats will I see?
The Congress Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in the U.S., with over 1.5 million bats present in the colony.