The Pithlachascotee River—usually called the Cotee River—is another incredibly beautiful place to paddle in the Tampa Bay area. It is only about 45 minutes from my home in Largo, making it a convenient escape into a surprisingly wild and peaceful part of New Port Richey.
Two Excellent Upper-River Launches
Most of the paddle I enjoy is within and around James E. Grey Preserve. The preserve has an excellent accessible kayak launch, picnic tables and a convenient area where a paddling group can gather before getting on the water. It is an easy launch for kayaks and canoes and a wonderful starting point for exploring the natural upper river.
One important thing to remember is that pets are not allowed in James E. Grey Preserve. Another very good option is Frances Avenue Park, a short distance away. Both launches provide access to the greener, less-developed portion of the river, where palms, oaks and other vegetation crowd the banks.
Following the River Toward Its Headwaters
The river is tidal and can rise and fall a couple of feet, even this far upstream. I especially enjoy visiting on one of the highest high tides and paddling upriver beneath the Rowan Road bridge, past the condominiums and as far into the headwaters as conditions allow.
The farther upstream I travel, the narrower and wilder the river becomes. Eventually a fallen tree, shallow water or another blockage usually stops me. That journey is much harder—or sometimes impossible—at lower tide, but at high water it is one of the highlights of paddling the Cotee.
This is not a river that reveals everything in a single trip. There are enough bends, canals, chutes and side channels to paddle for many hours, choose a different route each time and still leave places unexplored.
Future images can show the preserve launch, shaded upper river, side channels, tidal scenery and downtown reaches.
Chutes, Ponds, Islands and Old Florida Canals
Several narrow chutes branch north from the main river near the boardwalk and its covered fishing shelter. One route winds back toward a pond with two small islands. I have gotten out and explored both islands, and the whole area feels hidden away from the surrounding city.
Another side channel reaches the Harborside manufactured-home community. Years ago, while I was looking for a home, I nearly bought a place there for $60,000. Having tidal water in the backyard would have been wonderful, but later hurricanes flooded the community and left many homes damaged or uninhabitable. It was a reminder that living beside these beautiful waterways also carries a very real flood risk.
Other canals lead past houses that still have an old-Florida feeling—some almost resembling summer camps, although more of them are being restored or replaced by larger year-round homes. They are fascinating to see from the water, but repeated flooding is an unavoidable concern for anyone considering living there.
Downriver Toward Sims Park
Everything described so far is in the upper portion of the river. Paddlers can continue downstream as the river widens and development and powerboat traffic become more noticeable. Sims Park appears along the river in downtown New Port Richey, and public river access is also available in that area.
I have paddled well beyond Sims Park toward the broader lower river. Some people enjoy the more urban character of that section, but I strongly prefer the upper reaches, where the river feels quieter, greener and much farther removed from the city.
Birds, Turtles and the Possibility of Alligators
The upper river is an excellent place to slow down and watch wildlife. I regularly see fish, turtles and many wading birds. The sounds of birds and other wildlife are a major part of what makes this paddle special.
I have seen only one alligator here during my many trips, but that does not mean they are absent. The river is brackish, becoming fresher toward the headwaters and during the rainy season when tributaries are carrying more freshwater. Alligators can appear anywhere suitable habitat exists, so paddlers should remain observant and keep pets away from the water’s edge.
Let the River Provide the Soundtrack
This is a preserve and a place where walkers, birders and paddlers come to enjoy quiet time in nature. Loud music and shouting can travel a long distance across the water and through the woods, disturbing wildlife as well as other visitors.
Waterproof earbuds or headphones make it possible to enjoy personal music without imposing it on everyone else. Better yet, leave the music off for a while. The natural sounds along the Cotee River are one of the best reasons to be there.