The Cumberland Chain O’ Lakes Triathlon takes place in Cumberland, Wisconsin, where water and forest converge into a dynamic playground for endurance athletes. This event combines a 0.9-mile open water swim across pristine lake waters, a 24-mile bike ride along rolling countryside, and a 6.2-mile trail run through forested paths demanding both stamina and steady footing. Each leg challenges you to engage directly with landscapes that are fiercely themselves—lakes that dare you to find your rhythm in their currents, hills that push back during the bike, and trails that wind under canopies of whispering pines.

Start your race energized and hydrated, as the swim tests calm and control against the gentle chop of the Big and Little Lakes chain. The bike course twists alongside the Wisconsin River and through stretches of farmland, where subtle climbs reward you with patches of prairie wildflowers and the occasional red-tailed hawk circling above. Adequate tire pressure and a well-fitted helmet are critical here; the route is paved but includes a few rough patches where focus pays dividends.

The run transitions you into more intimate terrain. The dirt and gravel trails trace shorelines and dip through mixed hardwood forests. Expect moderate elevation gain—not steep, but enough to sting your legs after hours of effort. Footwear with good traction and support helps keep you steady on uneven surfaces. Along the way, the cool scent of pine and the steady rustle of leaves keep your senses sharp as the forest seems to both encourage and challenge your progress.

Timing is key. Early summer past June offers warmer water temps, making the swim more inviting, while avoiding the potentially humid July and August days. Morning starts avoid the afternoon sun, which can turn the bike’s open stretches into a dry test of hydration and grit. Bring layered clothing for early race hours, as Wisconsin mornings can hold a crispness that quickly shifts as the sun climbs.

All levels can appreciate this triathlon’s accessibility—it’s tough but fair. For novices, receive the course map in advance and attend the pre-race briefing to familiarize yourself with transitions. For seasoned triathletes, the varied terrain refreshes with unique challenges that tighten pacing and promote nimble strategy. Your adversary here isn’t a finish line alone, but the elements acting as partners and opponents—water currents pulling, roads winding, woods waiting. Preparation marries ambition; stay practical, respect the course, and take pride in being part of a fiercely natural event.