XTERRA World Championship | October 8–11, 2026 | Ruidoso, NM
Fierce racing. Unforgettable setting. Pure Wild West.
Wild West XTERRA brings the world’s top off-road triathletes to Ruidoso, as the town hosts the XTERRA World Championship, the pinnacle event of the global XTERRA series, October 8–11, 2026.
Set high in the Sierra Blanca mountains of southern New Mexico, Ruidoso offers cool October temperatures, dense forest trails, and a compact mountain-town setting where athletes and spectators move through the same streets, cafés, and trailheads throughout race week.
With rugged terrain, high-altitude challenge, and a deep-rooted frontier spirit, Ruidoso provides a fitting stage for XTERRA’s 30th anniversary—and the championship’s long-anticipated return to the United States.
More than a race, the week unfolds as a shared experience, blending the alpine beauty of Grindstone Lake, the lively gathering spaces of town, and the genuine hospitality that defines Ruidoso.
Official race details and athlete registration >>
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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For Athletes: High-altitude terrain, technical courses, championship atmosphere
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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For Visitors & Spectators: Viewing areas, town energy, dining, fall weather
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.
XTERRA World Championship | Quick Facts
Location: Grindstone Lake & Lincoln National Forest, Ruidoso, NM
Dates: October 8–11, 2026
Full Distance: 1.5 km swim · 27 km MTB · 10 km trail run
Elevation: ~6,900 ft (2,100 m)
What to Expect During XTERRA World Championship Week
Athletes arriving mid-week for check-in and training
Championship races held across multiple days
A lively town atmosphere with international visitors
Peak lodging demand and busy dining periods
Plan Your XTERRA World Championship Visit
Race week in Ruidoso is as much about the place as the competition. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and explore everything the area has to offer during the XTERRA World Championship.
• Find your stay: Explore hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals in the Ruidoso Lodging Directory
• Dine like a local: Discover restaurants, cafés, and breweries across town on our Dining pages
• Get outside: Extend your stay with hiking, biking, and scenic exploration on nearby Trails and Outdoor Recreation
• See what’s happening: Browse the Events Calendar for live music, festivals, and community happenings during race week
Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or making a long weekend of it, Ruidoso offers a welcoming basecamp for race week and the chance to experience the mountains, culture, and community that define the town year-round.
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.
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