Texas Hill Country: The Guadalupe River and Gruene, TX - A Rad Traveler Review

Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country lies the charming town of Gruene, a hidden gem known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant music scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities. One of the region's greatest treasures is the Guadalupe River, meandering its way through the town and offering a plethora of water-based activities. Just a stone's throw away, Canyon Lake beckons with its sparkling waters and stunning vistas. Let's dive in to the little known beauty that is the Guadalupe River and Gruene, TX.

Where Is it?

Almost smack dab between San Antonio and Austin down I-35. New Braunfels is the largest city, but Gruene is where the magic starts. At the always wonderful Buc-ee's, head west on Hwy 306 and you'll be in Gruene in less than 5 minutes. The heart of the Guadalupe runs between there and Canyon Lake - about a 12 mile drive to get there through the beautiful Texas hills.

The Guadalupe River

The Guadalupe River, with its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Starting from the spring-fed headwaters, this scenic river winds its way from Canyon Lake through Gruene and beyond, offering a host of activities to suit every preference. From tubing and kayaking to paddleboarding and fishing, the Guadalupe River presents endless opportunities for aquatic adventures. Grab your gear, dip your toes in the refreshing waters, and let the river carry you on a memorable journey.

Tubing in Paradise

One of the most popular ways to experience the Guadalupe River is through tubing. Grab an inflatable tube, kick back, and relax as you float gently downstream, taking in the stunning sights along the way. The leisurely ride provides ample opportunities to soak up the Texas sun, swim in cool pools, and enjoy the company of friends and family. The Guadalupe River's gentle current and scenic beauty make tubing an absolute must-do when visiting the Gruene/Canyon Lake area.

We have been many times and our favorite spot to "put in" is where the Hwy 306 overpass meets Horseshoe Tubing Company. From here, it's about a 2 hour (give or take depending on water level) float around the horseshoe that ends at Whitewater Amphitheatre. There are plenty of spots to stop and relax, rope swings, swimming holes, etc.

Historic Gruene and Its Music Scene

After enjoying the Guadalupe River, take a stroll through historic Gruene, a charming district brimming with character and culture. The Gruene Historic District features beautifully preserved buildings that house eclectic shops, local boutiques, and delicious eateries. As you wander through the streets, be sure to catch a live music performance at Gruene Hall, Texas' oldest continually operating dance hall. With its rich history and lively ambiance, Gruene offers a unique blend of small-town charm and vibrant entertainment.

Our favorite spots to check out are Gruene Outfitters - just a local shop that calls you to the outdoors while you're in there. My wife loves The Pomegranate, a women's clothing boutique and Gruene Hat company is awesome - you'll leave with a hat you didn't know you needed.

Food, Drink and Entertainment

Gruene and the surrounding area offer a host of eateries, watering holes and fun activities outside of tubing the Guadalupe. One place you must visit is the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar. It's situated on an embankment that overlooks the Guadalupe and is an awesome open-air home cooking experience. A few other spots in Gruene is The Gruene Door, Gruene Coffee Haus and The Gruene Light.

There are lots of other activities outside of the tubing scene. There are some fantastic golf courses around Gruene and the Canyon Lake area. Our favorite spot to go is Land Park Golf Course a few minutes outside Gruene. The golf itself is good, but we go for the deer. On any given 18, you're likely to see no less than 100 deer grazing and relaxing on the course.

Whitewater Amphitheatre is not a main reason to go, but it's a pretty unique concert venue located right along the Guadalupe. They host some big names every now and again so when you go, be sure and check the lineup as you very likely could score some last minute tickets.

One other favorite for families is Schlitterbahn Waterpark - also just outside of Gruene in New Braunfels. It's an amazing waterpark that the whole family will love. Massive water slides, wave pools, splash pads for the little ones and a massive river that runs through the park that you can float. It has it all and is a really fun way to spend a hot summer day with the family.

Other Things Worth Mentioning

Located just a short drive from Gruene, Canyon Lake awaits with its tranquil waters and breathtaking vistas. This reservoir, surrounded by rolling hills and majestic oak trees, provides the perfect setting for outdoor activities and relaxation. Boating, jet skiing, and paddleboarding are popular pursuits on the lake, while the shoreline invites picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching. I mention it later in this posting but don't let that dissuade you if you're a lake person - Canyon Lake is incredible and a destination lake for many.

If hiking and the serene outdoors is your scene, there are ample opportunities. Gruene and its surroundings are blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, offering numerous trails and hikes for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the Guadalupe River State Park, where trails wind through wooded areas, offering glimpses of wildlife and scenic river views. For a more challenging adventure, embark on the Overlook Park Trail, leading to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Canyon Lake. Whether you're a leisurely stroller or an avid hiker, the trails around Gruene provide a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and soak in the serenity of Texas Hill Country.

Gruene, Texas is a destination that seamlessly blends natural wonders, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures. The Guadalupe River and Canyon Lake serve as the region's crown jewels, offering an array of activities for visitors to enjoy. If you and your family are looking for a getaway that will be different from the rest, Gruene and the Guadalupe are a must.

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