2023 Race the River Competitive Paddling Series Concludes with Pro & Amateur Categories and Cash Prizes

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Paddler races through river during paddling race series.

Last Updated on January 4, 2024

(SAN ANTONIO, TX) — The San Antonio River Authority, in collaboration with the San Antonio River Foundation, is excited to announce the final 2023 Race the River paddling series event. Kayak and canoe paddlers of all levels are invited to participate in the final event of the season along the Mission Reach on Saturday, November 4 at 9 a.m. The event will be at 655 Lone Star Blvd, with river access located off of Roosevelt Park Drive.

Two levels of race classes are available for paddlers as follows:

● Pro Class: Seasoned paddlers with a taste for adventure races are invited to compete in a challenging 7-mile race.

● Amateur Class: Beginner and intermediate paddlers eager for a fun challenge can embark on a 5-mile course.

Both pro and amateur paddlers will enjoy a journey through the heart of Texas’ largest ecological restoration project and one of the most picturesque stretches of the San Antonio River.

“This event is an opportunity for paddling enthusiasts to come together, test their skills, and celebrate the beauty of the San Antonio River as a community,” said Kristen Hansen. “All proceeds from the event benefit the San Antonio River Foundation and their mission to preserve, enhance, and transform the San Antonio River Basin into a vibrant cultural, educational, ecological, and recreational experience.”

Following the race, an awards ceremony honoring the Racer of the Day and the top three finishers in each class will be held at Acequia Park, 8500 Mission Pkwy 78223. Podium finishers will receive a trophy and cash prizes ranging from $40-$120. Food trucks and vendors will be onsite post-race for participants and spectators to enjoy.

For registration and event details, please visit sariverauthority.org.

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Alerts

Espada Park

The restroom at Espada Park will be temporarily closed due to a water leak. Our team is working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. We appreciate your patience and understanding!

Mission Reach Area Maintenance

When: Beginning October 20, 2025 through Spring 2026
What: Crews will be performing stem-density removal and related vegetation maintenance along sections of the Mission Reach to help manage flood risk and protect surrounding infrastructure. Some trails or segments may be closed temporarily while work is underway.
Why: Removing excess stems that naturally establish along the river helps maintain stormwater conveyance, reduces flood risk, and protects public infrastructure while allowing grassland and native vegetation to recover and thrive.
What to expect:

  • Limited trail closures and intermittent work zones.
  • Crews and equipment working near the riverbanks during daytime hours.
  • Parking areas remain open, but visitors may see signage and temporary barriers.

Questions? Call the San Antonio River Authority at (210) 227-1373 or visit https://www.sariverauthority.org/services/river-health/ecosystems/.

Thank you for your patience while we keep the Mission Reach safe, clean, and enjoyable.

Stem Density Map

Trail Closure Alert – Calder Alley, San Pedro Creek

Maintenance work will be done in Calder Alley starting Wednesday, September 18, 2025.

  • Trails will remain open during this work.
  • One bench at a time will be temporarily barricaded while improvements are completed.
  • There may be occasional contractor pickups in the area.

We appreciate your patience as we continue to maintain and improve San Pedro Creek for all to enjoy!

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail

The SASPAMCO paddling trail is open from River Crossing Park to Helton Nature Park.
*Please Note: Paddling Trail from Helton Nature Park to HWY 97 is still closed due to blockages. 

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail Temporarily Closed

Staff have removed two large log jams just downstream of Helton Nature Park, keeping the southern portion of the SASPAMCO Paddling Trail temporarily closed. Staff are working to contact adjacent landowners to support a land-based removal solution.

Goliad Paddling Trail Alert

NOTICE: HWY 59 Landing Site Closed

Due to TxDOT construction on the HWY 59 Bridge, the HWY 59 landing site is closed until further notice. However, the Goliad Paddling Trail remains open, and paddlers can still access the river at the Riverdale, Ferry Street, and Goliad State Park landings.

Please plan accordingly and check back for updates.

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