Yes, we're actually swimming in the river! 

The 2025 Swim Course consists of an 800 meter (1/2 mile) long stretch along the river's beautiful main channel, situated between Wolf Point (to the west) and the State Street Bridge (to the east). The event will host two swim distances:

• 2-Mile:  Long course swimmers will complete two counterclockwise loops around the perimeter and finish at the River Theater under the Clark Street Bridge.
• 1-Mile:  Short course swimmers will complete one counterclockwise loop around the same perimeter.

The Swim Course will be well-marked with large, infatable, autonomous buoys positioned along the entire stretch of the course. Any potential swim hazards (inlets, docked vessels, etc.) will be marked and protected by spotter kayaks. Kayaks and SUPs will also line the perimeter of the course to ensure swimmers stay in their respective swim lane.

The swim will be fully supported by a variety of water and land-based rescue and medical personnel. Lifeguards will be stationed along the entire course, both on the water and on shore. Safety boats will create separation from the Swim Course and the emergency vessel corridor. Land-based spotters will be positioned at elevated posts to monitor both swimmer and support crew activity. This event will be set on a traffic-free waterway under authority of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Click the map above to view the full Swim Course and review the Entry Details and FAQs for event specifics.

Please understand that only authorized participants are allowed into this event, each of whom must comply with mandatory Athlete Briefings and safety instructions. Swimming in the Chicago River is prohibited at any other time of the year.