Top 10 Triathlon Races in the Greater New York and New Jersey
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Time to read 3 min
A triathlon in New York or New Jersey offers an unbeatable mix of scenic courses, convenience, and race-day energy. Swim in the Hudson or Atlantic, bike through stunning landscapes, and run past iconic skylines. Unlike the West Coast, you’ll avoid long travel, time zone shifts, and Cali surfers. East Coast races provide seasonal variety, from warm summer swims to crisp fall challenges. Plus, the passionate crowds and strong triathlon community create an unforgettable atmosphere. With top-tier races of all distances, there’s no need to head west—your perfect race is right here.
Here are our 10 favorite triathlon races for you to add to your list, most of which are wetsuit legal, which is all the more reason to check out Xterra’s Vector Pro Fullsuit, one of the fastest most flexible wetsuits you’ll find for any race in New York or New Jersey.
May 21 st – Jersey Man Triathlon
https://www.raceforum.com/jerseyman
This is an early season race, with both a short course (Sprint) and long course held at Round Valley, in Lebanon, NJ, which is roughly half-way between NYC and Allentown. There’s a group of racers that keep coming year after year, and you will be welcomed to pop in and race.
June 7 th – Mighty Montauk
Montauk, New York is nicknamed “The Last Resort” referring to the fact that it’s at the easternmost tip of Long Island. It’s a beautiful beach resort trying to avoid the busy East Hampton vibe. It is known for its beaches, fishing, surfing, paddling and The Robert J. Aaron Memorial Mighty Montauk Triathlon, which is definitely the best you’ll find on Long Island. The race was founded by Robert back in 1982, and has become a buck-list race for many.
June 8 th – Escape the Cape
https://www.delmosports.com/events/escape-the-cape-new-jerseys-best-triathlon
This race starts with a 12 foot jump off the Cap May-Lewes Ferry. You’ll definitely want a great wetsuit as the water is sometimes chilly even in June. Voted by Triathlete Magazine as one of the best triathlons in the Northeast Region, you’re going to love this race.
June 28 th – Hudson Valley Triathlon
https://alpha.win/event/hudson-valley-ny/
Looking to experience the beauty of the Hudson Valley? There’s no better way to get a taste of the region than through a triathlon!
With a gorgeous swim through the pristine spring-fed Williams Lake, followed by a bike ride to the Ashokan Reservoir, and a run on the historic Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, you’ll get to see plenty of scenic treasures in the area.
July 13 th – Women’s Philadelphia Triathlon
https://www.delmosports.com/events/womens-philadelphia-triathlon
There are not a lot of women’s-only triathlons in NY and NJ, so we thought we’d send you a little south to Philadelphia, PA, for a race that takes over the City of Brotherly Love. The Triathlon Business International voted this the best first-timer event.
July 20 th – Ironman Lake Placid
https://www.ironman.com/races/im-lake-placid
Over 90 years ago, in 1932, the Olympic Winter Games were held at Lake Placid. Lake Placid is a village in the Adirondack Mountains, and in 2024 its population was under 3,000…. Except when Ironman comes into town at this iconic ironman race. The swim is in a lake, the bike is hilly, and the run is rolling.
August 9 th – Atlantic City Triathlon
https://www.delmosports.com/events/atlantic-city-triathlon-new-jerseys-best-triathlons
This is definitely a BIG CITY RACE down to The Shore. Atlantic City serves as an incredible venue for one of the best triathlons in New Jersey. The swim is a beautiful back bay swim, and the bike course is flat and fast.
August 30 th – Lake George Triathlon
https://alpha.win/event/lake-george-ny/
Located at the southeast base of the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, Lake George – nicknamed the ‘Queen of American Lakes’ is a unique yet majestic venue for a triathlon that will provide you with breathtaking views all throughout the course. The Lake George Triathlon festival is a fun and competitive weekend on the shores of Lake George, with a family friendly atmosphere. There’s no better place to swim than Lake George, recently voted the cleanest lake in America!
September 14 th – Saugerties Triathlon
https://alpha.win/event/saugerties-ny/
Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, Saugerties offers a welcome retreat from the busy atmosphere of the city and the towns surrounding it. Framed by the Catskill mountains, Saugerties is full of historic charm and has a welcoming, tight-knit community.
September 13 th and 14 th – Toughman Triathlon
Get ready for an unforgettable race weekend at the breathtaking Lake Welch in Stony Point, NY. This race offers scenic views and challenging terrain to test athletes at all level. Also that weekend is TOUGH Kids, a triathlon for kids ages 4 to 14 that promotes healthy exercise and good sportsmanship.