Tubing in Texas is an exciting way to explore the outdoors and have some fun. But before you hit the river, it's important to be aware of the safety considerations that come with tubing in Texas. From checking the depth of the water to avoiding vertical pins, here are some tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, make sure your skills and experience in the water are up to the river and the conditions.
It's always best to have at least one (preferably two) more people with you when tubing. This will help ensure that if something goes wrong, you have someone to help you out. When it comes to vertical pins, these occur when the arc sinks and gets stuck at the bottom after a sharp fall. This isn't usually a cause for concern until you're paddling falls of more than 3 or 4 feet. Advanced rowers can avoid them by first checking the depth of the water, leaning back and performing a “boot” movement to keep the bow raised.
Rowing boats with a bulky bow also reduce this risk substantially. If you're tubing in an area you don't know, be very careful near rapids. It's best to stick to proven routes and use service providers if possible. If not, make sure to ask questions and don't drink too much alcohol. People with medical conditions should consult their doctor before putting on tubes and undergoing prolonged exposure to the blazing Texas sun. Tubing is an outdoor activity that can be exhausting for certain people with medical conditions. At various times during the tubing season, several organizations volunteer to clean rivers for garbage, and the biggest cleanup initiative takes place at the end of the season, led by FFR (Friends For Rivers).Finally, here's a short video about Comal County's river regulations and safety tips that apply to Canyon Lake, Texas and Tube Haus. By following these safety tips, you can ensure that your tubing adventure in Texas is both fun and safe.
Be sure to check local regulations before heading out on your trip, and always wear a life jacket when tubing.