Must-Do Off-Road Triathlons

Written by
Susan Grant Legacki
There's nothing like a little dirt on your face to let you know you've had a good race. Off-road triathlons offer the multidisciplinary focus of a triathlon along with the added challenge of technical terrain—a winning combination for racing fun. These U.S. races all have breathtaking scenery, fat-tire worthy trails and plenty of dirt to keep you happy from start to finish.
XTERRA Lory
June 15, 2019 in Bellvue, Colorado
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You don't get more legitimate off-road racing than in Colorado—and this challenging race proves everything is better at elevation. Set at Lory State Park this unique race is completely geared for fun. You'll swim in a man-made ski lake—or choose the stand-up paddle board option—ride over motocross tracks and run along wooden bridges.
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XTERRA Granite Man Off-Road Triathlon
June 22-23, 2019 in Applegate Lake, Oregon
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Set just north of the California-Oregon border, the Granite Man starts with a beautiful .75-mile swim in the shadow of Mt. Shasta in Applegate Lake located among the beautiful pines of Klamath National Forest. The 13-mile challenging ride and five-mile trail run circumvent Applegate Lake as you make your way to the finish line. This is an excellent race for camping out, as you can find several campgrounds just minutes from the starting line.
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Little "a" Triathlon
June 29, 2019 in Palmer, Alaska
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A little race with a big heart, this family-friendly event is equal parts race and fundraiser. Each year, the organizers select a family with a child receiving cancer treatment to be the race beneficiary. This year's race raises money for the family of Maddy Brandl, a 5th grader from Eagle River. The race starts with a swim in Matanuska Lake, followed by a ride and run over a mix of gentle single track, ski trails and dirt roads.
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June Lake Triathlons
July 13, 2019 in June Lake, California
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This series of sprint, Olympic and long-course triathlons isn't technically off-road--but anyone who has competed in this event will tell you that this course plays out much more like a mountain event than pretty much any other road triathlon that exists. The chilly, crystal-clear swim in June Lake will wake you up, and the massive climbing on the bike will keep you huffing and puffing all the way to T2.

But your day has really only just begun as you start the run--a trail run at times so steep that many participants opt to put on gaiters just to keep the rocks out of their shoes. Don't worry, the renowned post-race buffet makes it all worth it.
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XTERRA EX2 Off-Road Triathlon/Duathlon
July 14, 2019 in Flinstone, Maryland
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Set at Rocky Gap State Park, the XTERRA EX2 triathlon starts with a calm lake swim and continues on with a twisty lakeside single-track bike leg--complete with wide fire roads and smooth grassy sections. But get your granny gears ready for "Evitt's Revenge" at about the halfway point of the bike leg. If you love the idea of an off-road triathlon but can't get yourself to get in the water, then the duathlon option at this mountain race will suit you just fine.
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Rockport Rugged XTERRA Triathlon
August 17, 2019 in Alpena, Michigan
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Situated in a small mountain town on the shores of Lake Huron, this event highlights the rugged terrain of Rockpoint State Park. Featuring sprint, Olympic and relay options as well as a separate SUP/Kayak race, the undeveloped beauty of this Great Lake shoreline will keep you in awe. But don't take your eyes off the trail for too long, as you'll need to keep your focus on this unpredictable terrain. Also, keep an eye out for the wooden shipwreck located just beneath the surface near the swim start.
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XTERRA Laguna Beach
September 8, 2019 in Laguna Beach, California
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With both a long course (1,500m swim, 25km bike, 10km run) and short course option (500m swim, 16km bike, 5km run), this race has something for every level of off-road athlete. Start your day with a refreshing swim in Crystal Cove before heading up, up, up into the ridges and canyons of Crystal Cove State Park. Expect tons of hills and some serious sore legs no matter which race you choose. However, the short course distance is relatively beginner friendly for new mountain bikers.
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About the Author

More by Susan» Susan Grant Legacki Active.com Contributor
Susan Grant Legacki is the founding editor of LAVA Magazine, and currently serves as the magazine's features and online editor. Prior to joining LAVA, she worked as a Senior Editor at Inside Triathlon and Triathlete Magazine. She is an Ironman finisher, Boston-qualifying marathoner, certified Pilates instructor—and a fitness and nutrition enthusiast. You can read more about her on Susanegrant.com and follow her on Twitter at @susanglegacki.