Columbia River Cross Channel Swim return on Sept. 2

CASCADE LOCKS — One of the country’s longest-tenured and most iconic open water swimming events ­— the Columbia River Cross Channel Swim — returns to mark its 80th year on Monday, Sept. 2, rekindling the Labor Day tradition along the banks of the Columbia River.

For eight decades, enthusiasts have congregated along the Columbia River’s shores, with recent years seeing the event hosted at the Sternwheeler paddleboat dock in Cascade Locks. Swimmers board the historic Columbia Gorge sternwheeler and are ferried across the channel before anchoring on Washington’s shores. Upon a signal, participants leap from the decks into the river waters, commencing a 1.1-mile open water swim toward the Columbia River’s south (Oregon) shore. A dedicated swim lane, flanked by volunteers on sailboats, kayaks, and paddleboards, ensures guidance, encouragement, and the safety of the swimmers.

This longstanding Columbia Gorge Labor Day tradition, dating back to the 1940s, faced a temporary setback in 2023, leaving the event’s future uncertain.

“The Roy Webster Cross-Channel Swim stands as a cherished annual tradition in the Columbia Gorge, reflecting almost 80 years of commitment by the Webster family and the broader community,” said Katie Kadlub, CEO of Visit Hood River. “With a reset and thoughtful consideration of the swim’s challenges, we are thrilled to extend an invitation to past swimmers and new participants for the event’s return this September at the Port of Cascade Locks. We encourage everyone to secure their accommodations early in anticipation of the Labor Day holiday.”

To register for the Columbia River Cross Channel Swim, visit www.columbiariverswim.com.