September 5, 2026

Registration opens 1/15/26

For 81 years, swimmers have boarded the famous Sternwheeler paddleboat on the south shore of the Columbia River, at the dock in Cascade Locks, and are ferried to the Washington side of the river. When signaled, swimmers jump off the Sternwheeler into the Columbia and swim an approximately 1.1-mile stretch across to Cascade Locks. To help them find their way, a special swim lane lined with volunteers in sailboats, kayaks, and paddle boards are there to guide, encourage, and protect swimmers as they cross the channel.

Join us on the banks of the Columbia River this Labor Day weekend for an exhilarating open-water swim.

Ages 10 & up may participate
Ages 10-14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Check in: 6:00-7:15am | Boat begins loading at 7:15am.
8am start time.

Group of swimmers wearing red swimming caps and goggles, preparing for an open water swim in a river with mountainous landscape in the background, labeled 'Columbia River Cross Channel Swim' on caps.
A smiling athlete in a yellow wetsuit emerges from a lake, greeted by people on the shore. Several canoes are visible in the water in the background. The scene appears to be part of a sporting event or competition.
Open water swim race with male swimmer in red cap and goggles, tattoos visible, others swimming in the background.