Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour In Austin
Austin, Texas is a city that is well-known for its many outdoor activities. One of the most popular activities is the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour. This tour gives you the opportunity to see the famous bat colony that calls the Congress Avenue Bridge home. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this kayaking experience.
What is the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour?
The Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour is a guided tour that takes you on a kayaking adventure under the Congress Avenue Bridge. The tour allows you to witness the largest urban bat colony in North America. During the summer months, roughly 1.5 million bats call this bridge home, and they put on quite a show each night as they emerge from the bridge to hunt for insects.
The guided tour is perfect for those who want to experience the bat colony up close and personal. The tour guides are local experts who share their knowledge of the colony and Austin's history. They lead you on a leisurely kayak ride on the Lady Bird Lake, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Austin skyline.
What to Expect on the Tour?
The Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour is approximately two hours long. It starts at dusk, and you will paddle to a designated spot to watch the bats emerge from the bridge. The tour is conducted in the evening, so it's important to bring a waterproof jacket or sweater, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.
You will be provided with all the necessary equipment for the tour, including a kayak, paddle, and life vest. The kayaks used on the tour are very stable and easy to use, making it a suitable activity for all skill levels.
The tour is led by experienced guides who will give you an introduction to the bats and the city of Austin. They will share interesting facts about the bats, their behavior and habitat. They'll also point out other Austin landmarks along the way.
How to Prepare for the Tour?
Before embarking on the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour, it's important to prepare for the adventure. Here are some tips to help you:
- Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing that is suitable for kayaking. It's also important to bring a waterproof jacket or sweater to keep you warm during the tour.
- Wear sunscreen: The tour is held in the evening, but it's still important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. You can apply sunscreen before the tour or bring it with you.
- Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water to keep you hydrated throughout the tour.
- Bring a camera: This tour offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos of the Austin skyline and the bats emerging from the bridge.
Conclusion
The Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour is an exciting outdoor activity that should be on everyone's bucket list. Witnessing the bats' nightly emergence from the bridge is an unforgettable experience, and the tour provides a unique perspective of the city of Austin. Plus, the tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making the experience all the more enjoyable.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour is an adventure that you won't want to miss!
