Swim the Bear 2026

Swim the Bear, part of Big Bear’s Paddlefest, offers an open water swim race. The course starts on the sand at Swim Beach, heads to the tip of Eagle Point, and returns to the grass at Ski Beach Park. The longer distance includes two laps. Cash prizes are awarded to Overall Male and Female winners, with age group awards for Junior, Open, and Masters categories. Wetsuits are permitted but make swimmers ineligible for awards.