Three Rivers Marathon Swim
Point State Park, United States • 29 Aug 2026
Event overview
The Three Rivers Marathon Swim is a 30K open water swimming event held in Pittsburgh, PA on August 29, 2026. The event is organized to benefit a fund that helps local families cover costs related to infant cardiothoracic surgery at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. The swim is the 14th annual edition and uses a water start at Point State Park Fountain. Distance: 30K (roughly 10K in each of the three rivers).
Course and support
The course covers out-and-back 5K segments in the Ohio, Monongahela and Allegheny Rivers, with turnarounds at Brunot Island, the Hot Metal Bridge area, and the 40th Street Bridge before returning to the Point for a buoy finish and exit via powered escort. Launch operations begin from the North Shore. Swimmers are supported by powered escort boats, two kayak volunteers per swimmer, and emergency support from Pittsburgh River Rescue, local police and the Coast Guard. Feeding is provided from a designated kayak, with additional supplies on a second kayak and backup supplies on escort boats. Water temperature averages around 72F but can vary. Water is usually calm for the first 10K; boat traffic and possible headwinds can affect conditions on the Monongahela and Allegheny. Organizers enforce a strict 12-hour overall cutoff and a 4-hour 10K pace for safety. Swimmers are expected to wear marathon swimming attire. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.