The Top Marathon Swims In The US!
Marathon swimming is a challenging sport that pushes athletes to their limits, both physically and mentally. The United States is home to many epic open water locations that offer marathon swimmers the opportunity to showcase their endurance and determination. In this post I will explore the top 10 marathon swims in the United States. These iconic swims not only test the swimmers' stamina but also take them through amazing landscapes and leave them with unforgettable memories. The swims are listed in no particular order as each offer unique challenges and experiences. Which ones have you done and which are on your bucket list?
20 Bridges
28.5 Mile Circumnavigation of Manhattan in New York
20 Bridges is an awesome swim that circumnavigates Manhattan Island, taking swimmers through the Hudson River, East River, and Harlem River. This current assisted swim is put on by New York Open Water Swimming. This swim offers a unique perspective of the New York City skyline, iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and The Vessel, and the thrill of navigating the challenging currents. You will swim under all 20 Bridges surrounding Manhattan in the process. Although the water ways might not be the cleanest, this is a once and a lifetime swim to add to your list!
Catalina Channel Swim
Distance: Approximately 20 miles Location: Los Angeles, California
The Catalina Channel Swim is a renowned swim that starts from Catalina Island and finishes on the Southern California mainland. Swimmers will encounter diverse marine life, including sharks, dolphins and seals, and have a chance to experience the stunning coastal scenery along the way. This swim poses some unique challenges especially because all swims start between 10pm and 11 pm. You will need to swim through the night in order to make it across. This was one of my favorite swims as it is jam packed full of excitement and natural beauty. At some point during the swim, most swimmers are escorted by pods of Dolphins which makes for some pretty cool memories and pictures! For more information on the Catalina Channel Swim check out the Catalina Channel Swimming Federation.
Boston Light Swim
Distance: Approximately 8 miles Location: Boston, Massachusetts
This is another one of my favorite swims because it is the oldest swim in the country starting in 1907 and it is right in my backyard. The Boston Light Swim is a challenging open water race that follows a course from the the historic Boston Light on Little Brewster Island to the L Street Bathhouse. With strong currents and changing tides, this swim demands a high level of skill and strategy from participants. The water can also be frigid, so you will want to make sure you are ready for the cold if you want to take on this challenge. For more information on The Boston Light Swim go check out MOWSA!
S.C.A.R (Saguaro, Canyon, Apache, and Roosevelt)
Distance: 40 Miles Total Location: Arizona
S.C.A.R is a series of four challenging marathon swims in Arizona, which includes swimming in Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, and Roosevelt Lake. Each swim offers unique scenery, including dramatic canyons and desert landscapes, providing swimmers with a memorable and demanding experience. This is an incredible adventure that brings together the marathon swim community. For more information on this swim go check out the official SCAR homepage!
Molokai Channel
Distance: Approximately 26 miles Location: Hawaii
The Molokai Channel Swim is a challenge that takes swimmers across the channel between Molokai and Oahu in Hawaii. With strong currents, unpredictable weather, and the possibility of encountering marine life, this swim will test a swimmer's endurance. This swim is incredibly challenging and is not for the faint of heart. The water may be warm but the marine life is dangerous and the water is angry. This is not a swim to miss if you are a die hard marathon swimmer. For more information on the Molokai Channel Swim head over to the Molokai Channel Swimmers Association.
Lake Tahoe Swims:
Distance: Varies Location: Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning alpine beauty, offers a variety of marathon swim options. Swimmers can choose from different distances, including the10.6 mile Vikingsholm, the 12 Mile True Width or the challenging 21.3-mile Length of Lake Tahoe swim. The major challenge for the Tahoe swims is that you will be doing these at altitude and in the dark! If you aren’t prepared it could be like swimming with a pillow over your face! These swims provide an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful settings in the United States. For more information on the Lake Tahoe Swims check out the Swim Tahoe homepage!
END-WET
Distance: Approximately 36 miles Location: North Dakota
The Extreme North Dakota Watersports Endurance Test also known as END-WET is an extreme marathon swim held in the rivers of North Dakota. This swim is truly the adventure of a lifetime. It is a current assisted swim that will have you tearing through some of North Dakota’s rivers. This swim takes participants through challenging currents and scenic landscapes, providing a one of a kind opportunity to explore the remote North Dakota's waterways. For more information on END-WET, check out their homepage!
Marathon swimming in the United States presents a large amount of opportunities for swimmers to test their limits and explore exciting open water locations. This list is certainly not a comprehensive one but it represents some of the most popular and well known marathon swims in the United States. Whether it's navigating the currents around Manhattan Island or swimming through the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, these marathon swims offer challenges, impressive views, and unforgettable experiences for all those brave enough to take on the distance. Hopefully you found this list inspiring and helpful in finding your next big marathon swim!