Prouty Beach Newport Open Water Swimming

Prouty Beach in Newport serves as the venue for the Kingdom Swim, an acclaimed open water swimming event. Located on Lake Memphremagog, the beach provides access to an international lake that extends from Vermont into Quebec, Canada. The park features a large sandy beach with changing facilities, restrooms, picnic areas, and a seasonal concession stand. Lifeguards are on duty during peak summer hours. Access is via Prouty Beach Drive with ample parking available. The beach sits on a bay area of the lake, offering protection from wind and waves compared to more exposed sections of Memphremagog.

The annual Kingdom Swim offers race distances of 1 mile, 5K, 10K, 10 miles, and 25 kilometers (the Border Buster), attracting swimmers from over 20 U.S. states and Canadian provinces. The event has been recognized as one of the world’s top 100 open water swims and hosts USMS Open Water National Championships. Kingdom Games also organizes NEK Swim Week featuring eight lakes over nine days, totaling 46 to 60 miles across the Northeast Kingdom region. Additional events include Saturday Clubhous Swims (2, 3.5, 6.5, and 12-mile distances) and In Search of Memphre, a 25-mile international swim between Newport and Magog, Quebec. Kingdom Swim weekend features a Pet and Swimmers Costume Parade on Main Street and pasta dinner for participants.

Water quality in Lake Memphremagog is generally very good, with the Northeast Kingdom lakes known for exceptional clarity and cleanliness. Swimming is monitored during organized events, with safety boats and kayakers accompanying all participants. All Kingdom Games swimmers must be accompanied by an escort kayaker. The lake experiences minimal commercial boat traffic and limited recreational boat traffic. Water temperatures during July and August typically range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. The lake’s depth and spring-fed nature contribute to cooler water temperatures compared to shallower lakes. Check Kingdom Games website for current event schedules and registration information.