Dessau Road Bridge

Dessau Road Bridge provides whitewater access to Walnut Creek in Austin, located in Travis County. Walnut Creek is a substantial stream classified as a large river system, flowing through the greater Austin area with a total length of 89 miles and draining a significant watershed of 27,730 square miles. The creek maintains an average flow of 116 cubic feet per second with a gradient of 4 feet per mile, creating moderate water movement suitable for paddling activities.

This access point sits at an elevation of approximately 551 meters, positioned within the lower-middle section of the creek system. The average water velocity of 1.84 feet per second and the stream's large river classification indicate relatively consistent flow conditions. Paddlers should be aware of the creek's 355-foot total elevation drop across its 89-mile length, which translates to fairly continuous gradient throughout the system.

Boaters using this access should monitor current conditions before launching, as flow rates can vary seasonally and after rainfall events. The location's proximity to Austin makes it a convenient put-in or take-out point for creek paddlers exploring this part of central Texas.