Aransas Pathways

Kayaks at Sunset
2025-06-21 18:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago)
Last day to register is June 16th, 2025!
Registration for this event has closed. Stay tuned for upcoming events!
Kayaks at Sunset 6-8:30 PM
Howard Murph Memorial Park – 4701 FM 1781 Rockport, TX 78382 (Loop 1781, behind Aransas County Airport)
*KAYAK PARTICIPANTS – Kayakers will meet at 5:45 at the Copano Boat Ramp (South end of the Causeway
on Hwy 35 N, Rockport) for event briefing and check in.
*Aransas Pathways does not provide kayaks for the event, if you do not have one for the event we do have local or nearby kayak rental companies that we can recommend that do deliver and pickup that you can contact. Here are a few that are aware of the event.
Rockport Birding and Kayak Adventures
877-892-4737
Coastal Bend Kayak
361-557-7003
Texas Coast Kayaking
361-724-1332
1. Kayakers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
2. All kayak participants must wear a USCG-Approved PFD or life jacket and carry a whistle.
3. The kayak portion of the event is for experienced kayakers.
Embark on a scenic 3.5-mile kayak adventure through Copano Bay, where you’ll discover diverse
birdlife and breathtaking coastal landscapes as you paddle along this pristine waterway.
Your journey concludes at Howard Murph Park, where the fun continues on land with:
Delicious food by Stevie Lew’s BBQ
Craft Sodas donated by Bay Area Brewing Co.
Live music by Melissa Ann and George Bennett
Kayak Safety presentation by TPWD
Want to learn how to safely kayak? Learn basic kayak instruction and safety at the event as well. You’ll be able
to take these lessons to your next kayaking adventure! Instruction provided by TPWD Staff or Volunteers.
Seining activity conducted by Texas Master Naturalists, Mid-Coast Chapter volunteers.
Observe Texas Master Naturalists demonstrate seining techniques to capture and identify native aquatic
species.
“The Story of Copano Bay: Insights with Speaker Pam Stranahan”
End your perfect evening with a spectacular Rockport-Fulton sunset.
What to bring:
Water
Sunscreen/Hat/Sunglasses
Bug Spray
Water shoes/boots
Clothes you do not mind getting wet
Seating is limited at Howard Murph but lawn chairs are welcome.

Pop Up Exhibit "Surviving the Surge: The Hurricanes that Shaped Aransas County"
2025-08-03 14:00 - 16:00 | The History Center for Aransas County, 801 E Cedar St, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
Unlock the history of the hurricanes that have shaped Rockport’s story. From the 1800s to Hurricane Harvey, this special pop-up exhibit within ‘Rockport Strong’ takes you
through the winds, waves, and resilience of our coastal community. Join us for the grand opening with a presentation by Joe Fox.

Healthy Hummers
2025-08-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Wings Rescue Center, 324 W 3rd St, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
HEALTHY HUMMERS
Protecting Our Hummingbirds: A Community Education Event
Registration required at wingsrescue.com
Date: August 23, 2025 10 AM
Location: Wings Rescue center – 324 W 3rd St Rockport, TX
Discover how to support the tiny jewels of our skies at this engaging presentation hosted by Aransas Pathways and Wings Rescue Center. Dr. Rebekah Rylander will share expert insights on creating safe environments for both resident and migrating hummingbird populations, offering practical tips to help these remarkable birds thrive in our community. Wings Rescue Center’s Kay Adams will introduce attendees to the organization’s mission and present their inspiring Ambassador birds, providing a firsthand look at wildlife rehabilitation and education efforts. This informative session combines scientific knowledge with hands-on conservation action, perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in making a positive impact on local wildlife.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
For more info call:
Aransas Pathways 361-556-5308
aransaspathways.com

Pathways Poker Tour 2025
2025-09-20 10:00 - 13:30 | Aransas Pathways Center Pavilion, 2491 Highway 35 N, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
PATHWAYS POKER TOUR 2025
September 20, 2025
Pathways Center – Pavilion and Bridge (Tule W)
Check-in and Presentation 10:15-10:30
Tour 10:30-1:30
*Registration required by Sept. 15
Register here: https://aransaspathways.com/poker-tour-2025
Please print and sign waiver or you can fill one out at the event: https://aransaspathways.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WaiverReleasePathways-with-emergency-contact.pdf
Join some HummerBird Celebration fun! Enter the Pathways Poker Tour and take a self-guided tour to five of Aransas pathways sites and watch beautiful hummingbird displays while you collect playing cards. Build your best poker hand to compete for prizes. Kids can join in the fun too with their own special adventure! Our youth division inspires the next generation of birders by collecting educational bird cards packed with cool facts about amazing bird species. Young explorers get entered in drawings for prizes. Whether you’re young or young at heart, everyone has a chance to win the ultimate grand prize – a pair of binoculars perfect for your birding adventures!
Check-in starts at 10:15 at:
Pathways Center – Pavilion and Bridge (Tule West)
2491 Hwy 35 N, Rockport
The instructions and scorecard will be given at check-in, which is where you will receive the first playing card. Then you will be given the locations of other sites.
The last site will be the History Center for Aransas County for the prize ceremony.
Refreshments will be available.
For more information, call 361-556-5308

Up Close with Hummingbirds: Banding Demonstration
2025-09-27 08:00 - 10:00
Up Close with Hummingbirds:
Banding Demonstration

Sept. 27th 8-10 AM
Linda S. Castro Nature Sanctuary – 4041 Hwy 35 N, Rockport
Refreshments provided

Have you ever wanted to see one of the world’s smallest birds close up? Well now is your chance! Join Dr. Rebekah Rylander for a hummingbird banding demonstration where she will ethically catch, tag, and release hummingbirds for research and educational purposes. Information collected from hummingbird banding is important for understanding migration movements, hummingbird health, and conservation planning. Activities will be conducted under appropriate federal and state permits by trained professionals.

Rebekah Rylander grew up in central Texas and earned her bachelor’s degree at UT Austin. While attending the university, she took her first ornithology course which inspired her to assist in various bird-related field projects across the globe, including Australia, Ecuador, Hawaii, and Canada. Eventually, Rebekah settled into Texas State University where she earned her Master’s degree and PhD examining social behaviors and population dynamics of the Black-crested Titmouse in San Marcos, Texas. After receiving her doctorate, Rebekah was hired as the Science Coordinator for the Rio Grande Joint Venture, where she has been involved designing and implementing monitoring programs in south and west Texas, assisting with grassland-focused workshops in Mexico, and continuing to build collaborative relationships with other bird-habitat conservation partners within the RGJV geography. Rebekah has assisted and led Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (VENT) birding expeditions in southeast Arizona, established the Christmas Bird Count circle in San Marcos, and has given dozens of presentations on her research and other bird-related topics. Rebekah is also a master bander and holds educational bird banding demonstrations for naturalist groups and at school functions.

Click here to register for the event, registration will close when we reach 25 applicants.

Discover the Story Behind Every Band
2025-10-18 08:00 - 10:00 | Linda S Castro Sanctuary, 4041 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
Join Aransas Pathways for Chirp & Chat: Bands of Discovery, a free, family-friendly bird banding event in Rockport, Texas. This special morning blends science, nature, and community in an inspiring outdoor setting.
See Dr. Rebekah Rylander and Master Bird Bander Kelly Bryan in action as they show how bird banding helps track migration and protect bird species along the Texas Gulf Coast. You’ll learn how each small band supports research and helps conserve the birds we all enjoy.
Ask questions, meet other nature lovers, and discover how science and stewardship come together in our local environment.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a camera or binoculars, water, and a curious heart for discovery.
To learn more or register, visit www.aransaspathways.org.Be part of this meaningful community event—because every band tells a story, and yours begins here.

Pathways Pumpkin Paddle
2025-10-25 07:30 - 09:30
Pumpkin Paddle Event Update
Due to the forecast of showers and possible storms on Saturday morning, the Pumpkin Paddle has been cancelled for everyone’s safety.
We truly appreciate everyone who registered and volunteered — your enthusiasm keeps our community spirit afloat!
All participants will automatically receive updates for our next kayaking adventure, so stay tuned.
In the meantime, explore the many beautiful Aransas Pathways sites around our county and enjoy nature at its finest — rain or shine, there’s always a Pathway waiting for you.
Stay safe and dry, everyone, and we’ll see you soon for more outdoor adventures!

Weather Cancellation Notice

🎄 Christmas on the Beach & Volunteer Thank You Day
2025-12-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Rockport Beach, 810 Seabreeze Dr, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
📅 December 27, 2025 (Saturday)⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM📍 Rockport Beach, Texas
Join us for a magical evening at Rockport Beach as Aransas Pathways celebrates the heart of our mission — our volunteers, partners, and community stewards who keep the spirit of Birding, History, Kayaking, and Trails alive all year long.
This festive gathering is our way of saying thank you for helping Aransas County shine as a premier ecotourism and heritage destination in the Coastal Bend.

What to Expect
✨ Cozy beachfront Christmas atmosphere✨ AP volunteer recognition moments✨ Meet the Aransas Pathways team & site stewards✨ Sign-up opportunities for 2026 volunteer programs✨ Light snacks & good community vibes✨ Perfect sunset photo moments along the shore

Why This Event Matters
Aransas Pathways is built on people — volunteers, partners, and local champions who share their time and heart to sustain our trails, birding sites, kayak launches, and history spaces.
This special evening honors YOU — the hands, hearts, and stories behind our shared success.
Volunteer Sign-Up & 2026 Opportunities
Looking to get involved next year?Stop by our Volunteer Table to explore upcoming opportunities in:

Events & outreach

Birding programs & citizen science

Trail stewardship

Kayaking activities

Historical and cultural programming

👉 Sign up here:www.AransasPathways.com/volunteer/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=events&utm_campaign=COTB2025

Join a Global Birding Moment — Right from Aransas County
2026-02-13 - 2026-02-16 | Aransas County, United States
From backyards and neighborhood parks to trails, docks, and waterways, Aransas County is proud to take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC)—a worldwide community science event that invites people of all ages and experience levels to observe and share the birds they see.
Participation is simple and flexible. Individuals are encouraged to spend at least 15 minutes observing birds on one or more days during the event period. Observations may be identified and recorded using beginner-friendly tools such as Merlin Bird ID or eBird, contributing valuable data to a global effort that supports bird research and conservation.
Coordinated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in collaboration with national and international partners, the Great Backyard Bird Count connects local observations to global science, demonstrating how everyday experiences in nature help expand understanding of bird populations and habitats worldwide.
Event Dates: February 13–16, 2026Location: Anywhere birds are found within Aransas County
How to Participate

Choose a birding location (backyard, park, trail, dock, or waterway).

Observe birds for at least 15 minutes on one or more event days.

Identify and share sightings using eBird or Merlin Bird ID.

Pathways & Goose Island State Park Aransas Bird Days 2026
2026-04-18 - 2026-04-19 | Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary, 1401 S Church St, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
Theme: “Wings of Spring”
A New Annual Birding Tradition Begins in Aransas County!
The Inaugural Aransas Bird Days of Spring marks a milestone for Aransas County. It reflects a shared commitment to conservation, community connection, and celebrating the ecological richness of the Texas Gulf Coast.

Why Aransas County Is a Premier Spring Migration Destination
Located along the Central Flyway, Aransas County offers some of the most important coastal stopover habitats in Texas. During April, migratory songbirds, shorebirds, raptors, and wading birds move through the region, creating exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Aransas Bird Days of Spring highlights:

Coastal birding hotspots
Migration science and conservation
Local ecotourism experiences
Community-based stewardship

This event supports conservation awareness, educational outreach, and sustainable tourism across the Coastal Bend.

Event Overview
Dates: April 18–19, 2026Location: Multiple Aransas County sites, including Goose Island State ParkHost: Aransas PathwaysPartner: Goose Island State Park

What to Expect at Aransas Bird Days of Spring
Participants of all ages and experience levels are welcome.
Event Schedule and Registration
Browse the events below to plan your visit. Some activities are free and open to the public, while select guided tours and sessions require advance registration. Please review each listing for details.
Whether you are a seasoned birder or discovering migration for the first time, this weekend offers accessible, meaningful experiences in nature.

Goose Island State Park Programming
For additional Goose Island State Park programming updates, visit:Aransas Bird Days – Wings of Spring — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department

Pathways Events & Registration
April 18, 2026
8:00 AM-11:00 AM-Live Bird Banding Experience: Science in Action
No pre-registration required.
Where: Linda S. Castro Nature Sanctuary, 4041 Hwy 35 N Bypass, Rockport, TX 78382
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aar9sa58FBQrR8JZ8
What: Get an up-close look at the fascinating world of bird science during a live bird banding demonstration led by three experienced researchers working along the Texas Gulf Coast: Rebekah Rylander, Kelly Bryan, and guest bird bander Rebecca Bracken of the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory. Learn why and how this research is used.
Bring: a chair, hydration, bug spray, and sun protection
Accessibility: This program is located on a flat surface with accessible parking on-site.
8:30 AM-11:30 AM-Pathways Guided Nature & Historical Tour of Aransas County
Registration Required – limited seating available
Eventsbrite Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984933762316
Departure location: Aransas County Courthouse Parking Area 301 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX 78382. The van departs promptly at 8:30am.
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Axi3ewktj7JVvXe16
What: A guided nature and history van tour of Aransas County. Discover the beauty, wildlife, and rich coastal heritage of Aransas County on this guided Nature & Historical Tour. Lunch is not provided.
Bring: snacks and your sense of adventure!

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM-Pathways Family Birding Event & Craft Time
Where: Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary 1429 S Church St, Rockport, TX
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Axi3ewktj7JVvXe16
What: Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun and educational day celebrating birds and nature at the beautiful Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary. This family-friendly event features a mini bird walk, an introduction to birding for all ages, hands-on nature crafts for youth, and opportunities to learn more about local birds and their habitats.
Bring: sun protection, bug spray, hydration
Accessibility: This event takes place on an uneven surface. Accessible parking nearby.

5:00 PM-8:00 PM-Birding Talk with Dr. Carter Crouch (International Crane Foundation) & Reception
No pre-registration required.
Location: Aransas County Community Center, 302 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX
Google Map Link:
Join us for an evening of birding, conservation, and community connection as part of Aransas Bird Days of Spring 2026.
Enjoy:
Vendor and exhibitor booths
Networking with community and visiting guests
A featured birding discovery session with expert speakers
Also, we invite you to be part of Aransas Bird Days of Spring 2026 as a vendor or exhibitor.
To apply, please register using the link below:
Aransas Bird Days Vendor Registration: https://AransasBIrdDays2026_Vendor_Registration.eventbrite.com
For complete event details, including schedule and locations, please visit:
Aransas Bird Days of Spring 2026: https://aransaspathways.com/event/aransas-bird-days-of-spring-2026/
We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you.
Mark your calendar.
Invite a friend.
Experience spring migration in one of Texas’ most vibrant coastal birding corridors.

One County, Countless Adventures.Birding. History. Kayaking. Trails.

Aransas Bird Days 2026: Pathways Bird banding at Linda Castro Nature Sanctuary
2026-04-18 08:00 - 11:00 | Linda S Castro Sanctuary, 4041 Hwy 35 N, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
Live Bird Banding Experience: Science in Action
Where: Linda S. Castro Nature Sanctuary, 4041 Hwy 35 N Bypass, Rockport, TX 78382
Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/aar9sa58FBQrR8JZ8
What: Get an up-close look at the fascinating world of bird science during a live bird banding demonstration led by three experienced researchers working along the Texas Gulf Coast: Rebekah Rylander, Kelly Bryan, and guest bird bander Rebecca Bracken of the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory. Learn why and how this research is used. No registration required.
Bring: a chair , hydration, bug spray, and sun protection
Accessibility: This program is located on a flat surface with accessible parking on-site.

Aransas Bird Days 2026: Pathways promotes Goose Island Van Tour
2026-04-18 08:00 - 11:00 | Aransas County Courthouse Parking Area, 302 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
As part of Aransas Bird Days – Wings of Spring, Aransas Pathways is proud to highlight this special partner-led experience at Goose Island State Park, in collaboration with Texas Parks and Wildlife.
Join TPWD staff and local birding expert Ben Horstmann for a guided van tour through some of the park’s most celebrated birding hotspots. This curated experience offers a closer look at iconic locations such as the Big Tree Natural Area, scenic bayfront habitats, and active bird feeding stations—each stop designed to immerse participants in the rich coastal ecosystem.
Guests can expect approximately 30 minutes at each location, allowing time for observation, photography, and learning in a relaxed, small-group setting.
Book your tour here: Aransas Bird Days – Goose Island Van Tour
Waiver required for participation.Please complete before arrival: Van Tour Waiver
Event DetailsSaturday, April 188:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Meeting LocationAransas County Courthouse Parking Lot308 N Live Oak St., Rockport, TX 78382
This experience is designed to be accessible to most participants. For specific accessibility questions, guests are encouraged to contact Ranger Sara directly.
What to BringWater, weather-appropriate clothing, and binoculars (a limited number will be available for loan)
Additional Information• Capacity is limited to 14 participants• Park entrance fees will be waived• No meals or snacks will be provided• Pets are not permitted in the van• Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian• Program may be subject to cancellation due to weather or low attendance

This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Goose Island through the lens of local expertise—connecting visitors to the landscapes, wildlife, and stories that define the Texas coast.
Join us for Aransas Bird Days 2026 and explore:Birding. History. Kayaking. Trails.

Aransas Pathways Guided Nature & Historical Tour of Aransas County
2026-04-18 08:30 - 11:30 | Aransas County Courthouse Parking Area, 302 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
Registration Required – limited seating available
Eventsbrite Tour Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984933762316
Departure location: Aransas County Courthouse Parking Area 301 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX 78382. The van departs promptly at 8:30am.
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KDJUjWkcaAcvehX78
What : A guided nature and history van tour of Aransas County. Discover the beauty, wildlife, and rich coastal heritage of Aransas County on this guided Nature & Historical Tour. Lunch is not provided.
Bring : snacks and your sense of adventure!

Pathways Family Birding Event & Craft Time
2026-04-18 10:00 - 14:00 | Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary, 1401 S Church St, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
Where: Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary 1429 S Church St, Rockport, TX
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NMHh4NTvG6qXqLk8
What: Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun and educational day celebrating birds and nature at the beautiful Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary. This family-friendly event features a mini bird walk, an introduction to birding for all ages, hands-on nature crafts for youth, and opportunities to learn more about local birds and their habitats.
Bring: sun protection, bug spray, hydration
Accessibility: This event takes place on an uneven surface. Accessible parking nearby.

Aransas Pathways Bird Talk with Dr. Carter Crouch (International Crane Foundation)
2026-04-18 18:00 - 19:00 | Community Center for Aransas County, 302 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX, 78382, United States
Aransas Pathways invites the community to an evening presentation with Dr. Carter Crouch of the International Crane Foundation. This program will explore the broader themes of bird life and migration, offering insights into the seasonal movements of birds, their ecological significance, and the importance of conservation efforts across regions.
Set within the Texas Coastal Bend, this event highlights Aransas County’s role as a vital stopover and habitat for migratory bird species. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation of how local landscapes connect to global migration patterns and conservation initiatives.
Event DetailsDate: April 18, 2026Location: Community Center for Aransas County
Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7xrYKQMX49Vg52im6
Doors Open: 5:00 PM Program Start: 6:00 PM
This presentation is open to the public and is part of the Aransas Bird Days of Spring celebration, welcoming birders, nature enthusiasts, and community members of all backgrounds.

Early Bird U-Drive Tour – Aransas Bird Days 2026
2026-04-19 08:00 - 10:00 | Cove Harbor Bird Sanctuary and Wetland, 2531 Hwy 35 S,, Rockport, 78382, United States
In partnership with Aransas First Land Trust
Start your morning with the birds.
Join us for a self-guided birding experience at Cove Harbor, hosted in partnership with Aransas First Land Trust and Ms. Debbie Griffith.
Drive at your own pace and explore coastal birding hotspots while enjoying the quiet beauty of the Texas coast.
Date: April 19, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: 2590 HWY 35 S, Rockport, TX 78382
First 30 guests to check in will receive a giveaway from Aransas Pathways and partners.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aransas-bird-days-2026-early-bird-u-drive-tour-tickets-1985941731178
Waiver required (must be completed before arrival): https://aransaspathways.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WaiverReleasePathways-with-emergency-contact.pdf
All participants must complete the waiver prior to joining the tour.
Birding. History. Kayaking. Trails.
