The San Antonio River Walk - A Short Drive from Canyon Lake, Texas
Posted by Mary Sallman on Mon, Jan 09, 2012
The San Antonio River Walk - A Short Drive from Canyon Lake, Texas
From Hazard to Treasure
The history of the San Antonio River is a tumultuous one. Although the banks of the river have been home to various settlements since 1718, the violent flooding that occurred on a regular basis was a deterrent to any permanent major development. In September of 1921 a strong rainstorm caused the water to rise covering three-quarters of a square mile of downtown in 10-12 feet of water causing the deaths of about 50 people. It was this event that precipitated planning to control the flooding, eventually concluding with the construction of Olmos Dam in 1927 and a bypass channel with flood control in 1929.
Photo courtesy of Lewis F Fisher http://hugmantour.com/desktop/gallery.php.
Robert H. Hugman had originally presented a plan to develop the banks of the channel into an area he called “The shops of Romula and Aragon” but the depression and reluctance to trust the dam and channel discouraged further development along the banks. (San Antonio offers a self guided walking tour of some of Hugman’s contributions to the River Walk for those with smart phones – see “Learn some History” below).
It wasn’t until after 1939 when WPA funding became available and confidence in the flood control had grown, that development of 20 bridges and 17,000 feet of walkways lined with plantings began. In the decades that followed, hotels, shops, and restaurants were developed along the banks, and in 1968 the Paseo del Rio Association was formed to “promote, protect and preserve” the San Antonio River Walk.
The River Walk Today
Today the River Walk is a picturesque oasis that winds through the city under a canopy of bald cypress past lush tropical landscaping, waterfalls, wildlife and interesting architectural features, shops, hotels and a multitude of restaurants. Brightly colored barges make their way along the Paseo del Rio, offering locals and tourists alike, a different view of the city.
In 2009 the “Museum Reach”, a 1.5-mile extension of the River Walk, opened to the public. Meandering northward past the San Antonio Museum of Art, and historic Pearl Brewery, visitors are treated to beautiful water features, landscaped pocket parks, and unique public art installations.
Now partially completed, the “Mission Reach” will eventually extend the River Walk southward over 8 miles to Mission San Francisco de la Espada. This section will feature restored woodland and aquatic habitats providing over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, picnicking areas and pavilions and a river section closed to motorized vehicles so that it can be enjoyed by kayak or canoe.
Ways to Enjoy the River 
Whether you are a visitor or local, out to partake in one of the many river side festivals and parades, dining opportunities, recreation or just a calm evening stroll along the beautifully lit walkways lining the canal; the River Walk is a treasure that you are sure to enjoy.
The San Antonio River Walk is only 55 minutes from Canyon Lake; be sure to take advantage of this wonderful nearby amenity.
Like the thought of living in the Texas Hill Country, yet be close to great city attractions like the San Antonio River Walk---request our land kit. You will love Canyon Lake, Texas and the premier gated communities of Las Brisas and First Mountain.
What are some of your favorite things to do on the River Walk? Leave us a comment we’d like to hear!