Swim & Paddle the South River 2026

Swim & Paddle the South River is an 8 km (approximately 5 miles) water event on the South River in Riva, Maryland, beginning at 100 Orchard Road. Held in the fall, it operates as a swimmer-and-paddler format, not a standard point-to-point swim. The participants include novice and experienced swimmers and paddlers, with family-friendly involvement focused on outdoor recreation on local waterways. Each entrant also fundraises for the Arundel Rivers Federation, with a required minimum donation alongside registration. Swimmers proceed in pods of 2 to 4 people grouped by similar speed, and each pod remains together for the entire course, accompanied by a support boat. Participants may opt for a solo swim pod, where swimmers complete all 5 miles with a dedicated paddler, or a relay pod, where swimmers take turns on a paddle board assisting the group. Organizers can assign individuals to appropriate pods if they do not register with their own group, and vessels are supplied for participants unable to bring one. The event links the race directly to South River conservation, inclusive water access, and sustainable rivers.