Paddle Through a Cypress Slough

Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail

This scenic loop takes paddlers on an adventure from the wide span of the Neches River to a narrow, shaded waterway beneath towering tupelos and cypresses. Explore quiet oxbow lakes along the bayou as you pass under cypress trees draped with Spanish moss.

Distance

4.8-mile loop

The paddling trail is a 4.8-mile loop with an out-and-back section at the beginning. Signs and arrows mark the route.

Getting Here

GPS Coordinates:
30.155200, -94.116000

The Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail begins at the LNVA Saltwater Barrier boat ramp in Beaumont. From US 69/96/287, head northeast on E Lucas Drive, then turn left (north) on Bigner Road. Follow Bigner Road until it ends at the boat ramp.

The Route

Start at the LNVA Saltwater Barrier boat ramp in Beaumont. Paddle north up the Neches River to its confluence with Pine Island Bayou. From there, go left and paddle up Pine Island Bayou until you reach Cooks Lake, on the right. Paddle toward the north end of Cooks Lake. After exploring the calm waters of Cooks Lake, follow the signs to the entrance of the cypress slough that leads east through a narrow, shaded waterway beneath cypress and tupelo trees. Exit the slough at Scatterman Lake and follow the south shore until you reach the Neches River. Head right and follow the Neches downriver, past the confluence and back to the boat ramp.

Before You Go

• Check the Water Level – The Neches River and Pine Island Bayou are generally calm waterways, though the Neches can be affected by tides and flood control from reservoirs upriver. Check the USGS website for the current gage height.
• Safety Gear – Make sure you have enough life jackets for everyone in your group, as well as drinking water, supplies, and a map.
• Boat Rentals – The preserve does not rent boats or provide shuttles. Check with local outfitters for these services.

More Information

Read more about paddling in the Big Thicket and the Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail.