The Riding Mountain Monster Triathlon is an invigorating challenge set within the embrace of Riding Mountain National Park, near Wasagaming, Manitoba. This triathlon isn’t just a race; it’s a direct conversation with a landscape that moves, pushes, and demands respect. Athletes face a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Clear Lake, a demanding bike ride weaving through forested elevations, and a hike where each step carefully negotiates the rugged trails draped in spruce and poplar.

Starting with a 1.5-kilometre swim, the lake waters dare you forward—cool and clear, but with currents that test your stamina. Transitioning to the bike, expect 40 kilometres of rolling hills and packed gravel roads that snake up and down the Riding Mountain plateau. The terrain can be gravelly and occasionally uneven, urging precision and focus every turn of the pedal. Finalizing the triathlon, the 10-kilometre run/hike moves through dense forests and open ridges, with an elevation gain close to 300 metres. The trails narrow and sharpen here, each step breaking through dirt paths with fallen leaves and occasional roots, asking for balance and resolve.

Preparation is key: sturdy trail running shoes or multi-sport footwear with solid grip will carry you through the varied surfaces. Hydration packs or water bottles accessible during each segment help you engage the course without hesitation. This event typically runs in late July when the weather holds steady, though summer storms can sneak in, so gear accordingly.

Wasagaming offers essential proximity for rest and refuel—local accommodations and eateries welcome athletes post-race with hearty, protein-rich options to replenish energy reserves. Timing your race to start in the early morning provides cooler temperatures and the chance to witness clear skies, with the forest’s whispers accompanying your pace.

The Riding Mountain Monster Triathlon balances the raw pulse of Clear Lake’s water, the steady grind of plateau cycling, and the intimate push of trail running. It’s an encounter with nature that demands focus, respects pace, and rewards resilience. Whether you’re warming up your first triathlon or stepping deeper into endurance sports, the Monster challenges you to engage with a landscape fiercely itself.