Junction Up & Back

UP & Back will be held in August 2026!

Paddlers Wanted!

This event offers a unique paddling experience up the South Llano River then back down again. Inspired by kayaking enthusiasts and participants of Texas Water Safari boat racing events, the inaugural Up and Back Boat Race was held in 2017 and marked the first kayak/canoe open boat race hosted on the South Llano River.

Racers have 12 hours to finish the 35-ish mile course that both starts and ends at Lake Junction in the city's municipal park. Competitors boat up the South Llano River to the "First Crossing", turn around and boat back to the South Llano Bridge. Divisions include tandem, men's solo, women's solo, SUP and relay. Any man-powered craft is permitted. All racers who complete the race within the 12-hour time frame will be entered into the finisher's drawing for cash and other prizes.  for a total race route…