We are a collection of swimmers dedicated to swimming outdoors in Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and the Sea to Sky. Whether you’re a casual dipper, an open-water newbie, a seasoned channel swimmer, or a cold water lover, this group is all about bringing people together to enjoy swimming wild.
In winter (mid-September to mid-May) we swim/dip once a week. Generally, we swim on Saturdays at Sp'akw'us Feather Park and the first Sunday of each month at Porteau Cove. Both locations start at 10am.
In summer (mid-May to mid-September), we swim twice a week. Generally, we swim Tuesday evenings at 6:30pm at Alice Lake, the first Sunday of each month at 8am at Porteau Cove, and all other weekend Saturdays at 8am at Brohm Lake.
For the most up to date info on our times and locations, join our WhatsApp Group!
Swim Format
In winter you can expect a dip or a short swim. It'll be cold, but that why we love it! You can stay in as long as you like, but keep yourself safe by getting out before you get too cold.
Safety
There are no lifeguards where we swim. Swimming wild is an amazing experience, but it's not without risk. This is how we manage it:
We swim within our own abilities, and need to be honest with ourselves about our abilities if we decide to venture out of our depth. We want to be out of the water long before we get too cold or exhausted
We swim with a buddy, and check in regularly to see how each other is doing
We check in with each other, and ensure that no one gets left behind
Swim Gear
Each swimmer is responsible for their own choice of gear, but here are some suggestions:
A swimsuit or swim apparel of choice (no judgement)
A wetsuit (optional for longer swims, but not recommended for colder swims - you'll get too cold trying to wrestle it on and off!)
A brightly-coloured swim cap or toque (recommended)
A loud whistle (optional)
Goggles and ear plugs (recommended if you're putting your head in)
A brightly-coloured tow-float (optional)
Once you get out of the water, you might want:
A large towel or two
A mat or extra towel for standing on while getting changed
A dry-robe, towel robe, or just a big towel for getting changed under
Loose clothing that's easy to pull on when you're slightly damp. Buttons, zippers, or other fussy things that are difficult to use with numb fingers are not recommended
Water shoes, crocs, or flip flops
A warm drink and/or a snack
Swim Format
In summer, we usually stay in a little longer. You can dip, paddle around, or go for a longer (500-2000m+) swim! Chat with the other participants and pick a partner or group to swim with.
Safety
There are no lifeguards where we swim. Depending on the location, we may encounter motorized boat traffic, paddlers, floaty toys, or even sea lions. Swimming wild is an amazing experience, but it's not without risk. This is how we manage it:
We swim within our own abilities, and need to be honest with ourselves about our abilities if we decide to venture out of our depth. We want to be out of the water long before we get too cold or exhausted
We swim with a buddy, and check in regularly to see how each other is doing
Ultimately, YOU are responsible for you own safety. But we'll definitely look out for each other ;-)
Swim Gear
Each swimmer is responsible for their own choice of gear, but here are some suggestions:
A swimsuit or swim apparel of choice (no judgement)
A wetsuit (optional)
A brightly-coloured swim cap or hat (highly recommended - makes us easy to spot, especially for motorized traffic)
A brightly-coloured tow-float (highly recommended - makes us easy to spot and can be great to hold on to when having a break out in the deep water)
A loud whistle (highly recommended)
Goggles and ear plugs (optional)
Once you get out of the water, you might want:
A large towel or two
A mat or extra towel for standing on while getting changed
A dry-robe, towel robe, or just a big towel for getting changed under
Loose clothing that's easy to pull on when you're slightly damp. Buttons, dippers, or other fussy things that are difficult to use with numb fingers are not recommended
Water shoes, crocs, or flip flops
A warm drink and/or a snack
We swim safely
Wild swimming can be incredibly enjoyable, but it’s not without risk. We know that we are each responsible for assessing the level of danger, seriousness, or commitment, and we will swim within our own abilities. We are better together, and always look out for each other so that everyone returns to the shoreline safely.
Stewardship is our responsibility
We recognize that we swim within the unceded and occupied traditional territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). We believe that we have the responsibility to protect these lands and waters for future generations to enjoy the same way we do.
All swimmers are welcome
We believe all swimmers are worthy. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender, sexuality, religion, age, race or colour, ability or disability, physical or mental health status, financial status, appearance, or body type or composition.
We love to swim
We are here because we love to swim. If you are aiming for a certain distance, time, event, or competition, we are excited for you. We are also excited for you if you enjoyed your quick dip on the way home from work. Neither is better than the other, and both are swimming wild.
Strava
