Hannah Dugan Breaks Records as Youngest Person to Complete Solo Circumnavigation of Lake Erie
COLUMBUS, Ohio (May 19, 2025) — A 22-year-old adventurer has made history by becoming the youngest person to successfully complete a solo circumnavigation of Lake Erie. Hannah Dugan achieved the milestone on Monday, concluding her 10-day, 800-mile journey by kayak.
When did this occur? The expedition spanned from May 9 to May 19, 2025. What happened? Dugan departed from Cleveland, Ohio, and navigated the entire perimeter of Lake Erie, facing severe weather conditions including high winds and waves up to six feet. Where did it take place? The route covered U.S. waters from Ohio, Michigan, and New York, as well as Canadian shores in Ontario. Why is it significant? Dugan’s completion bests the previous record held by a 25-year-old, highlighting both her endurance and the growing interest in extreme solo water sports. How did she accomplish this? Using a custom 18-foot sea kayak equipped with satellite communication and a desalination device, Dugan paddled an average of 80 miles per day, with rest periods limited to four hours nightly. Authorities from the Lake Erie Water Sports Association have confirmed the achievement pending final GPS verification.
In a statement, Dugan expressed relief and gratitude, acknowledging the support of her family and local maritime rescue teams who monitored her progress. She plans to donate a portion of her sponsorship funds to water safety programs. This viral story has since garnered over two million views across social media platforms, with many praising Dugan’s determination and resilience against challenging conditions.