Ruidoso hosts the XTERRA World Championship, the pinnacle event of the global XTERRA off-road triathlon series, as elite athletes from around the world gather to compete in a landmark year celebrating XTERRA’s 30th anniversary and the championship’s return to the United States.

Set high in the Sierra Blanca mountains, race week unfolds across rugged, high-altitude terrain featuring alpine swims at Grindstone Lake, technical mountain bike trails, and demanding trail runs through surrounding forest landscapes. The compact mountain-town setting creates an energetic, spectator-friendly atmosphere throughout the weekend.

Beyond the competition, visitors can enjoy cool October weather, local dining and events, and the welcoming hospitality that defines Ruidoso—making the XTERRA World Championship a shared experience for athletes, spectators, and the community alike.

Learn more about the XTERRA World Championship in Ruidoso and plan your visit >>