XTERRA World Championship | October 8–11, 2026 | Ruidoso, NM
Fierce racing. Unforgettable setting. Pure Wild West.
Wild West XTERRA will bring the world’s best off-road triathletes to Ruidoso, New Mexico, for the XTERRA World Championship, October 8–11, 2026. With rugged trails, high-altitude terrain, and frontier history, Ruidoso is the perfect backdrop for XTERRA’s 30th anniversary and the long-awaited return of the championship to the United States.
More than a race, the event promises an immersive experience for athletes and visitors alike—combining the alpine beauty of Grindstone Lake, the vibrant energy of Wingfield Park, and the warm hospitality that defines Ruidoso.
The Event
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The 2026 XTERRA World Championship will mark a major milestone: the 30th anniversary of XTERRA and the first time the championship has returned to the U.S. in years. From October 8–11, Ruidoso will be at the center of this global celebration of endurance, grit, and community.
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Competitors will face the demands of high-altitude racing while enjoying the warm welcome of a town proud to host the world. The mix of rugged adventure and small-town spirit will make this World Championship unlike any other.
The race begins with a two-loop, 1.5K swim in Grindstone Lake at 7,000 feet elevation—likely wetsuit-legal and set against sweeping mountain views. From there, athletes transition to a 27K mountain bike course with nearly 2,950 feet of climbing, technical singletrack, and fast descents across Grindstone Mesa. The final 10K trail run winds through pine forests, where varied terrain and altitude test both endurance and resolve before the finish.
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October weather averages a crisp 63°F, with clear skies and low humidity, making it ideal for racing. Beyond the course, Ruidoso offers a vibrant mix of dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation. Known for its scenic beauty and welcoming spirit, the village ensures an unforgettable race week experience.
The Wild West
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The choice of Ruidoso for the 2026 XTERRA World Championship is no accident. The mountain town embodies the essence of the “Wild West” theme, offering competitors and spectators a direct connection to the frontier spirit.
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Visitors can explore Fort Stanton and Lincoln Historical Sites, Wingfield Heritage House Museum, and Smokey Bear Historical Park—landmarks that tell the stories of pioneers, legends, and local icons who helped shape the American West.
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Lincoln National Forest sets the stage with soaring pines, jagged peaks, and untamed trails. This natural landscape not only challenges athletes but also perfectly aligns with the Wild West identity of the event.
About XTERRA
XTERRA is the world’s leading off-road triathlon and trail run series, uniting a global community of athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Since 1996, XTERRA has championed adventure, discovery, and sustainability through epic races that combine swimming, mountain biking, and trail running in some of the planet’s most spectacular natural settings
Be part of the Wild West XTERRA—Ruidoso 2026
Relive the Action from 2025
Before the world arrives in Ruidoso for the XTERRA World Championship in 2026, take a look back at the excitement of last year’s XTERRA Ruidoso race weekend. From alpine swims to rugged trail runs, XTERRA Ruidoso 2025 delivered unforgettable moments and set the stage for what’s to come.