Spring 2026

St. George Triathlon 2026

Ironman 70.3, Kokopelli Triathlon, sprint and Olympic distance races at Sand Hollow State Park in Southern Utah

Quick Facts

Season
Spring races (March-May)
Venue
Sand Hollow State Park
Distances
Sprint · Olympic · 70.3 Half
Early Start
Typical 6:30-7:30 AM gun time

St. George is one of the most celebrated triathlon destinations in the United States — famous for the brutally beautiful Ironman 70.3 St. George course that has hosted both the regional race and the Ironman 70.3 World Championship. Beyond Ironman, Southern Utah hosts the popular Kokopelli Triathlon series at Sand Hollow State Park, multiple sprint and Olympic distance races, and serves as a year-round training destination for triathletes across North America. The combination of consistent weather, world-class venues, and challenging terrain makes St. George Triathlon 2026 a major calendar event for athletes at every skill level.

2026 St. George Triathlon Schedule

The triathlon calendar in Southern Utah spans late winter through fall, with the most significant events concentrated in spring when weather conditions are ideal. Expected 2026 events include:

  • Ironman 70.3 St. George — Spring half-iron distance race with 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike (with significant climbing), and 13.1-mile run
  • Kokopelli Triathlon — Spring sprint and Olympic distance races at Sand Hollow, organized by BBSC Endurance Sports
  • Independent sprint races — Various smaller events throughout spring and fall organized by local triathlon clubs and promoters
  • Collegiate and age-group championships — When regionally hosted, these events use Sand Hollow's proven infrastructure

Specific 2026 dates are confirmed by race organizers (Ironman.com for Ironman events, bbscendurance.com for Kokopelli and related races). Check the SGWOM events calendar as dates become official.

The Ironman 70.3 St. George Course

The Ironman 70.3 St. George course is legendary for its difficulty. The 1.2-mile swim starts at Sand Hollow Reservoir with clear, manageable water conditions. The 56-mile bike leaves Sand Hollow and winds through Washington County's rolling desert terrain with 3,000-4,000 feet of elevation gain — including notable climbs up and through Snow Canyon State Park. Strong climbers and cyclists comfortable with sustained grades perform well here; athletes trained on flat courses can struggle. The 13.1-mile run takes athletes through the Red Cliffs area of central St. George with its own rolling terrain and exposure to midday sun. Expect Ironman 70.3 St. George finishing times 15-30 minutes slower than comparable athletes would record on flat courses.

Kokopelli Triathlon

The Kokopelli Triathlon is one of the intermountain west's most popular amateur triathlons, hosted by BBSC Endurance Sports each spring at Sand Hollow State Park. The event offers both sprint distance (750m swim, 20K bike, 5K run) and Olympic distance (1500m swim, 40K bike, 10K run) options. The beautiful venue, accessible course, and well-organized logistics make Kokopelli a popular choice for first-time triathletes and experienced amateurs alike. Registration opens 3-6 months before race day; early pricing starts around $85 for sprint and $235 for Olympic distance.

Why Sand Hollow is an Ideal Triathlon Venue

Sand Hollow State Park in Hurricane, Utah has become the default venue for most Southern Utah triathlons thanks to several compelling advantages:

  • Clear, warm water — Spring water temperatures of 55-72°F with excellent visibility and minimal current
  • Buoyed swim course infrastructure — Established swim course lines and timing infrastructure
  • Spacious transition areas — Paved parking and staging areas accommodate 2,000+ athlete transitions
  • Direct road access — Sand Hollow Road connects to SR-9 for bike and run course routing
  • Restroom and shower facilities — Park amenities support race-day logistics
  • Sand Hollow Resort lodging — Immediately adjacent lodging for athletes wanting minimal race-morning commute

Race-Day Weather and Conditions

Spring triathlon weather in St. George is typically ideal — race mornings see 55-65°F air temperatures climbing to 75-85°F by the run portion. Humidity is consistently low. Wind can be a factor: the Sand Hollow and Snow Canyon corridors occasionally see 15-25 mph winds that affect bike splits. Rain is uncommon but not impossible during April and May — check weather forecasts in the final 72 hours. Early morning starts (6-7 AM gun times) take advantage of the coolest temperatures and calmest winds.

Training in St. George Year-Round

Beyond race day, St. George is one of the country's premier triathlon training destinations. Open water swimming at Sand Hollow and Quail Creek is available May through October. Indoor pools at the St. George Recreation Center, Washington Community Center, and Sand Hollow Aquatic Center support year-round swim training. Road cycling on low-traffic roads through Snow Canyon, Gunlock, and Hurricane offers world-class training terrain. Running routes range from flat paved paths in central St. George to demanding red rock trails in the surrounding foothills. Several professional training camps and coaches operate in the area, especially during Ironman build-up seasons.

Race Weekend Lodging

Race weekend hotel inventory fills fast. Recommended options by proximity to Sand Hollow:

  • Hurricane (closest to start) — Holiday Inn Express, Best Western Abbey Inn, Sand Hollow Resort cottages (5-15 min to transition)
  • Washington — Comfort Suites, Hampton Inn, multiple mid-range hotels (15-20 min)
  • St. George (more amenities) — Courtyard, Hyatt Place, Holiday Inn, Best Western Coral Hills (20-30 min)
  • Vacation rentals — Airbnb and VRBO at Sand Hollow Resort, Coral Canyon, and Entrada work well for families and training groups

Book 3-6 months in advance for major event weekends. Ironman race weekends in particular see hotel inventory sell out early at reasonable prices.

What Else to Do in St. George on Race Weekend

Many athletes extend triathlon trips to enjoy Southern Utah recreation. Post-race recovery activities include easy hiking in Snow Canyon State Park, visits to Zion National Park (45 minutes east), dining in downtown St. George, and pool time at race hotels. For athletes staying extra days, Sand Hollow offers boating, SUP, and beach time, while the surrounding desert provides world-class mountain biking and hiking.

St. George Triathlon 2026 FAQ

What triathlons are held in St. George 2026?
St. George hosts several major triathlons in 2026 including the Ironman 70.3 St. George (spring), the Kokopelli Triathlon (sprint and Olympic distances, typically spring), and multiple smaller sprint and Olympic distance races throughout the year. The Ironman 70.3 World Championship has rotated to St. George historically and may return in future years. Check the SGWOM events calendar and BBSC Endurance Sports schedules for 2026 confirmed dates.
When is the Kokopelli Triathlon 2026?
The Kokopelli Triathlon is traditionally held in spring at Sand Hollow State Park with sprint and Olympic distance options. The 2026 Kokopelli dates are confirmed by BBSC Endurance Sports in the months leading up to the event. Registration typically opens 3-6 months before race day. Check bbscendurance.com for 2026 specifics.
Where do St. George triathlons take place?
Most St. George-area triathlons use Sand Hollow State Park (swim and transition) with bike and run courses routed through the surrounding desert. Sand Hollow offers warm, clear water (swim), excellent transition space, and road access for the bike/run course. Some events start at Quail Creek State Park. Race day logistics include shuttle service, transition area setup, and aid stations throughout the course.
How hard is the St. George Ironman 70.3 bike course?
The Ironman 70.3 St. George bike course is widely considered one of the most challenging half-iron courses in the world. The 56-mile bike features 3,000-4,000 feet of elevation gain through Southern Utah's rolling desert terrain, including significant climbs up Snow Canyon State Park. Strong bikers and climbers perform well here; flat-course athletes can struggle with the sustained elevation.
What is the St. George triathlon weather like?
Spring triathlons in St. George (March-May) typically see race-day temperatures of 55-85°F with low humidity and abundant sunshine. Wind can be a factor — Sand Hollow and Snow Canyon corridors occasionally see 15-25 mph winds. Early morning starts (6-7 AM) take advantage of the coolest temperatures. Summer races (rare at the sprint level) can see 95-110°F heat making them dangerous for endurance events.
Where should I stay for St. George triathlon weekend?
Hotels near Sand Hollow (Hurricane area) are most convenient for race morning logistics including Holiday Inn Express Hurricane, Best Western Abbey Inn, Sand Hollow Resort cottages, and Airbnb/VRBO rentals at Coral Canyon and Sand Hollow Resort. St. George proper offers more hotel inventory and restaurants but adds 15-25 minutes to race morning commute. Book 3-6 months in advance for major event weekends.
How do I register for a St. George triathlon?
Registration varies by race: Ironman races register through Ironman.com with prices ranging $395-$765 depending on timing (early registration saves substantially). Kokopelli and other BBSC Endurance events register through bbscendurance.com with prices from $85 (sprint) to $235 (Olympic). Some smaller sprint events use RunSignup, Active.com, or independent registration portals. Register early — major events sell out months before race day.
What is the water temperature at Sand Hollow for triathlons?
Sand Hollow water temperatures vary seasonally. Early spring races (March) see water at 55-62°F, requiring full wetsuits and often neoprene booties and gloves. Late spring (April-May) warms to 62-72°F with full wetsuits still recommended. Summer water temperatures rise above 75°F making wetsuits illegal per USAT rules. Always check official race communications for wetsuit status in the days before your event.
Is Sand Hollow good for open water swim training?
Yes. Sand Hollow State Park is widely considered one of the best open water training venues in the intermountain west. The lake features clear water, minimal current, buoyed swim courses, and excellent visibility. Seasonal open water swim sessions are organized by local tri clubs. Park entrance fees apply ($15 day pass, $75 annual Utah State Parks pass).
What triathlon training is available in St. George year-round?
St. George is one of the country's best triathlon training destinations. Open water swimming at Sand Hollow and Quail Creek (May-October), indoor pools (St. George Recreation Center, Washington Community Center, Sand Hollow Aquatic Center), world-class road cycling on low-traffic roads through Snow Canyon and Gunlock, and running routes on red rock trails and road courses — all supported by consistent sunshine and mild winter temperatures. Several training camps and coaches operate in the area.

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