The Great River Challenge, Off-road Triathlon 2026

The race.

The Great River Challenge is a paddle, trail run, and mountain bike triathlon held October 3, 2026, at Northfield Mountain Recreation Center in Northfield, MA. The long course includes a 5.5-mile paddle on the Connecticut River, a 4-mile trail run, and a 7.5-mile mountain bike segment; the short course features a 4-mile paddle, 2.5-mile run, and 3.75-mile bike leg. All paddle segments begin with a mass start from the water-front pavilion and involve paddling to and around Captain Kidd's Island. Running and biking portions use single-track trails and packed gravel paths on the recreation center grounds. Timing chips track segment and transition times. Water stations and safety support are provided throughout the course.