Neches River Rally

Registration is now open for the ninth annual Neches River Rally, which will be held Saturday, Sept. 10, at 8 p.m. Cost is $20 for those 12 and under, and $40 for those 13 and up. With no payments being made the day of the event, patrons are asked to do so online at bigthicket.org.

This year’s route will take paddlers through the Big Thicket National Preserve via the 4-mile Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail, rain or shine. Each adult registered participant will receive a complimentary Big Thicket Association 2022-23 membership as well as free hamburgers, chips and drinks.

Paddlers will experience the open waters of the Neches River and the bald cypress/water tupelo swamp. Wading birds, songbirds and turtles are common wildlife observed in these backwaters.

Canoes and kayaks (no paddleboards) will launch and return to the LNVA Saltwater Barrier location in Beaumont. You can bring your personal boat or reserve one before Sept. 3 by calling (409) 786-1884.

The LNVA Salt Water Barrier is located at 6790 Bigner Rd. in Beaumont. For more information, view bigthicket.org.