2024 triathlon training hotspots - where top athletes hone their skills in the US
Whether you're preparing for your next Ironman or aiming to make a mark in the World Triathlon Series, choosing the right training location can make all the difference.
These top-rated triathlon training destinations are more than just places to work out; they are environments where athletic excellence meets natural beauty and vibrant culture. Here, the perfect combination of terrain, climate, and facilities can take your performance to the next level!
This study highlights:
- Scottsdale, Arizona, emerged as the ultimate triathlon training destination, blending challenging desert terrain with top-tier facilities and a perfect year-round climate.
- Florida and California secured two spots each in the top 10 triathlon training hotspots, showcasing their diverse and ideal training environments.
- Colorado’s high-altitude locations, like Boulder, have proven to enhance endurance, making it a top choice for serious triathletes.
1. Scottsdale, Arizona
Running trails: 206 | Cycling routes: 447 | Swimming pools: 103 | Sport hotels: 173
Scottsdale isn’t just another sunny city—it’s a triathlete’s dream training ground. Beyond the 206 running trails that traverse the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale offers a unique training environment where the climate is a consistent ally, with over 330 days of sunshine annually. Athletes can immerse themselves in challenging runs through McDowell Sonoran Preserve or cycle the 447 meticulously maintained routes that vary from steep climbs to flat, fast roads, perfect for speed work. The city’s 103 swimming pools, including the renowned Cactus Aquatic and Fitness Center, provide ample opportunities for both endurance swims and technique refinement. Scottsdale’s combination of a mild desert climate, sophisticated sports infrastructure, and a population that fosters a tranquil training environment ensures that athletes can focus on reaching their peak performance without distraction.
2. Salt Lake City, Utah
Running trails: 248 | Cycling routes: 401 | Swimming pools: 74 | Sport hotels: 68
Salt Lake City is a haven for triathletes seeking the edge that comes with altitude training. At over 4,200 feet, the city naturally enhances endurance and oxygen efficiency, crucial for competitive racing. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail, part of the city’s 248 running trails, offers a challenging mix of elevation and scenery, with sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley and Great Salt Lake. Cyclists can tackle the city’s 401 cycling routes, ranging from the demanding Big Cottonwood Canyon to the scenic Emigration Canyon, making it a versatile training ground. The Steiner Aquatic Center, with its high-altitude pools, provides the ideal setting for intense swim sessions. Coupled with a supportive local sports community and proximity to outdoor adventures in every direction, Salt Lake City is a powerhouse for triathlon training.
3. Miami Beach, Florida
Running trails: 47 | Cycling routes: 559 | Swimming pools: 62 | Sport hotels: 295
Miami Beach offers a vibrant and warm training environment that’s as energetic as the city itself. Known for its sunny, tropical climate, this city is ideal for triathletes who thrive in heat. The 559 cycling routes take athletes through iconic Miami neighborhoods and along stunning beachfronts, offering a mix of urban and scenic training experiences. For swimming, the city’s 62 pools, many with ocean views, provide ideal conditions for open water training, with the Atlantic Ocean just steps away for a true open water experience. Miami Beach’s wellness infrastructure is unmatched, with 295 sport hotels offering everything from spa treatments to specialized nutrition plans, making it an ideal location for both training and recovery. With one of the smaller populations of this ranking, means athletes can enjoy the city’s vibrant culture without the congestion, making it a perfect blend of intense training and relaxation.
4. Boulder, Colorado
Running trails: 247 | Cycling routes: 1,103 | Swimming pools: 37 | Sport hotels: 43
Boulder is synonymous with endurance sports, and it’s easy to see why it’s a top choice for triathletes worldwide. Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder’s natural terrain offers a rigorous training environment that challenges even the most seasoned athletes. The city’s 247 running trails include iconic routes like the Mesa Trail and the Flatirons Vista, which test both stamina and mental toughness. Boulder’s cycling scene is legendary, with 1,103 routes that attract professionals for altitude training and technical riding. The quality of swimming facilities, such as the Boulder Reservoir, where many open water events are held, adds to the city’s appeal. Boulder’s small yet vibrant population of 105k fosters a strong, supportive community where athletes can connect and push each other to new heights. The city’s focus on health and outdoor activity makes it a holistic training environment for triathletes.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Running trails: 59 | Cycling routes: 420 | Swimming pools: 63 | Sport hotels: 61
Asheville might be best known for its eclectic arts scene, but it’s also a powerhouse for triathlon training. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers 59 running trails that range from steep mountain challenges to gentle riverfront paths, allowing athletes to tailor their runs to their training needs. The city’s 420 cycling routes wind through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the Southeast, providing both beauty and challenge. Asheville’s 63 swimming pools are well-equipped for rigorous training, with many located in health-focused resorts that cater to athletes. The small-town charm, combined with a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts, makes Asheville an ideal location for athletes who value peace and focus in their training environment. The city’s unique blend of culture, nature, and sport creates a truly enriching training experience.
Who rounds off the top 10?
6. Clearwater, Florida
Running trails: 58 | Cycling routes: 396 | Swimming pools: 97 | Sport hotels: 41
7. Round Rock, Texas
Running trails: 93 | Cycling routes: 160 | Swimming pools: 102 | Sport hotels: 30
8. Carlsbad, Californian
Running trails: 50 | Cycling routes: 474 | Swimming pools: 79 | Sport hotels: 26
9. Santa Barbara, California
Running trails: 110 | Cycling routes: 108 | Swimming pools: 69 | Sport hotels: 19
10. Madison, Wisconsin
Running trails: 44 | Cycling routes: 1,345 | Swimming pools: 52 | Sport hotels: 39
Each city offers its own unique blend of challenging terrain, world-class facilities, and inspiring surroundings, making them ideal settings for both physical and mental growth. Whether you're seeking altitude training, coastal serenity, or a community that lives and breathes endurance sports, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for your journey toward triathlon success.
Methodology
The study conducted by buycycle analyzed more than 100 US cities that are perfectly designed for triathlon training this year. Selection criteria included total number of running trails, cycling routes, swimming pools and population. A multi-criteria decision analysis approach was used to rank the trails, with each criterion weighted based on importance. The findings were validated through cross-checking data, site visits, and expert opinions, offering a reliable guide for cycling enthusiasts.