Cross & Gravel Series

The USA Triathlon Cross & Gravel Series spans the multisport season and features events across the U.S. Qualification is not required to participate in the USA Triathlon Cross & Gravel Series or the USA Triathlon Cross or Gravel National Championships.

Gravel riding is an increasingly popular form of cycling that combines elements of road- and mountain-biking, and consisting mostly of riding over unpaved, non-technical roads. Unlike traditional triathlons where participants race their bikes on paved roads or highways, and unlike off-road triathlons where racers ride mountain bikes on technical, single-track mountain bike trails, gravel triathlons take place on unpaved, dirt roads such as Forest Service roads or canal paths that are non-technical. With fewer vehicles on these dirt and rural roads, gravel riding can offer a safer alternative to road cycling. Because of the varied terrain, riders can use a bike designed specifically for gravel riding, but mountain bikes and road bikes are often used for gravel riding too.

Cross (formerly Off-Road) events offer a great way to get into multisports for mountain bikers, trail runners, or for those with an adventurous side who don’t mind getting a little dirty.

Most cross events in the U.S. are triathlons but cross duathlons have started to take off in several areas of the country. Although cross events sound like something that would take place in mountain towns, a new crop of urban cross events, on trails that many would not know existed, are quickly gaining popularity.

The Cross & Gravel Series features a variety of different race distances and formats. These include Sprint & Olympic distance triathlons, aquabikes, duathlons, paddle tri's, relay categories and more!

As gravel triathlon and gravel duathlon (run-bike-run) are new disciplines under the multisport umbrella, USA Triathlon has created a new set of rules specifically for gravel events. These rules and recommendations were established through a working group of race directors and other community stakeholders and was led by the USA Triathlon Commissioner of Officials.

For the complete set of USA Triathlon 2025 Multisport Competition Rules, click here.