A Long Swim

Swimming in the waters of Lake Michigan requires an awareness of the Great Lakes' dynamic nature. While temperatures in early August typically settle into a comfortable range, conditions can shift hourly due to wind patterns across the open expanse. Swimmers must anticipate potential surface chop, though the loop course format is specifically designed to keep participants within close proximity to safety boats and lifeguards at every turn. Wetsuits are welcomed, providing added buoyancy and warmth for those who prefer them, allowing each athlete to choose the gear that keeps them focused on their rhythm rather than the water's variability.

A landscape of history and heritage

As you navigate the loop, the shoreline offers a distinct perspective on the region's development. The village of Winnetka, a name derived from the Potawatomi phrase for 'beautiful place', sits proudly on the North Shore. Your sighting line will be framed by the historic architecture of the area, including the residence of the journalist Henry Demarest Lloyd, known as The Wayside, which stands as a reminder of the area's intellectual legacy. Further along the coast, the familiar profile of the house made famous by the Home Alone film series at 671 Lincoln Avenue serves as an unconventional navigational marker. The proximity to the water's edge also reveals the historic traces of the Skokie Marsh and the former route of the Chicago, North Shore and Milwaukee electric line, which is now mirrored by the modern Green Bay Trail.

Race logistics and community

This event serves as an official qualifier for the Chicago River Swim, with the 1.2, 2.4, and 5K distances providing the necessary certification for the 2027 edition. For those balancing their summer calendar, the Great Lake Plunge takes place just weeks prior, offering a chance to prepare in similar conditions. Organizing for race day involves a seamless shuttle service from the parking areas at Lloyd Park and the Metra Station to the beach, ensuring a smooth transition to the water. A Long Swim operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with every registration and fundraising incentive—from custom tumblers to folding chairs—directly supporting collaborative research into ALS. The day begins at 6:00 a.m. at Tower Road Beach, where participants receive their timing chips and final course briefings before entering the lake.