Free Swimming Lesson at Ridgway State Park

Did you know that participating in swimming lessons can reduce a child’s risk of drowning by up to 88%?

Be Part of a Guinness Book of World Records Attempt

Thousands of children around the globe are participating in the 14th annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL) to help beat the single leading cause of unintended death of children ages 1-4. WLSL will take place over the course of 24 hours at hundreds of aquatic centers, swim schools and waterparks on six continents.

The Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership invites kids and families to participate in this global event at the Swim Beach at Dutch Charlie at Ridgway State Park. Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) is co-hosting and Montrose Recreation District is providing swimming instructors, with support from Ouray Hot Springs Pool as well.

Families should register their children at: https://www.uncompahgrewatershed.org/event/2023-worlds-largest-swimming-lesson. Children must be accompanied by adults and bring a beach towel to do part of the lesson on.

CPW will have their PFD trailer and games on site with chances to learn about swimming safety and win prizes including sunglasses, shirts, and more. UWP will have information about the watershed and ways to be a good steward of the Uncompahgre River and its environment.

When: Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 3 to 4 p.m.

Where: Ridgway State Park Dutch Charlie Entrance, 28555 Highway 550, Ridgway, CO, 81432. Park pass or daily entry fee required.