Eighth annual swim the snake cancelled for 2020

DAYTON–The eighth annual Swim the Snake sponsored by the Blue Mountain Resource Conservation and Development Council and Waitsburg’s Commercial Club, planned for August 8, has been canceled. The swim is just one of many community and recreational traditions which have fallen victim to the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown.

Event organizers, federal and state partners, the Port of Columbia and Lyons Ferry Marina staff recognize Washington’s Safe Start program for Coronavirus and its restrictions for gatherings, social distancing and Phasing for county openings and events.

In addition, due to increased COVID cases in the Franklin County area, Washington State Parks is unable to issue a special event permit for use of Lyons Ferry State Park. The park has traditionally been the end point of the paddling event and beginning of the open water swim. Participants cross Lake Bryan on the Snake River, a distance of approximately 0.7 mile.

We appreciate all the regional support for our unique event and look forward to offering this fun, family paddle and open water swim on August 14, 2021. In the meantime, please stay safe and healthy.