Cruising the Arroyo

HARLINGEN - When recent storms filled the Arroyo Colorado with a galloping torrent, it created an ideal opportunity for a group of kayakers from Harlingen and Rio Hondo to get a unique view of the swollen stream.

"We waited for months for the rain to do this," said Mike Maley of Harlingen.

On Thursday evening, Maley and four friends launched into the Arroyo Colorado from McKelvey Park in Harlingen and then kayaked to the Rio Hondo Boat Ramp, Maley said.

The trip took the group about two and a half hours, he said.

"It was a lot longer than we thought because we didn't really sprint," Maley said. "We cruised and enjoyed the sightseeing."

Along with intricately landscaped residential backyards and a new view of the Treasure Hills Golf Course, Maley said he was shocked with how much trash was floating in the arroyo.

"There were too many Stripes cups," Maley said. "The trash was awful. I've never seen so much trash - that was probably the worst thing."

Other than that, Maley said winding down the stream with thick brush along the banks was relaxing and peaceful.

"It was great - we didn't really have to paddle a lot through there," Maley said.

With the stronger-than-usual current pushing them along, Maley said the men were able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the ride.

About two months ago, the group decided to take a trip when the conditions were just right, Maley said - and Thursday was that day.

"We figured, ‘Hey, let's have some fun,' " Maley said.

The higher water levels cause wildlife along the river to seek higher ground, so Maley said they hoped to see plenty of critters during the trip.

"We saw some pretty good-sized alligator gar," Maley said. "A few of them were jumping out here and there."

The heavy rain also allowed for easier access to the arroyo, Maley said.

"When the river is at normal levels, you have to go down about three feet to get in the water," Maley said. "Now it's like a beach - we just walk right in."

Water in the swollen arroyo is much higher than its usual level, covering the jogging trails and much of the brush along its banks in Harlingen.

As the adventurers walked with their kayaks down a hike-and-bike path into the water at McKelvey Park, their families waved goodbye from dry land.

Maley said he's a beginner kayaker, and went along on the trip because his friends are experienced.

A few of the beginners fell from their surf ski-style boats a few times, but got back on and kept on going, Maley said.

"That's why we came with these guys," Maley said before departing from McKelvey Park. "They're going to watch after us."

"These pros are kind of giving us lessons," he added.
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