2025 USA Trifecta and Ultrafecta Weekend Recommendations
- Tom Shankapotomous
- Mar 27
- 15 min read
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Introduction
From Beowulf and Odysseus to Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and The Hunger Games, the hero's journey is fundamental to storytelling because it is all of our stories. It involves a hero embarking on both a physical and metaphysical quest that transforms them. The hero begins in a familiar setting, feeling uneasy and reluctant to leave. They are summoned to an adventure, initially resisting until they receive motivation from an unexpected source. As they enter the extraordinary world, the hero faces challenges, forms alliances and rivalries, and ultimately confronts their greatest fear, gaining a new perspective. Upon returning home, the hero integrates their newfound wisdom into their previous life. This journey represents themes of courage and resilience, illustrating timeless personal growth and self-discovery.
We all have the capacity to embark on such a quest but we have to take the first step.
What is a Trifecta or Ultrafecta Weekend
Endurance sports can be a part of this self-discovery; the Spartan Trifecta or Ultrafecta weekend can squeeze this journey into a weekend. This post suggests some of the best weekends on the schedule, and I hope to see you on the course. They come in four basic flavors:
Standard Tri Weekend - Beast, Super, and Sprint (most weekends offer the Sprint on Saturday and Sunday)
Ultrafecta Weekend - Ultra, Super, and Sprint
Tri/Trail/Ultra - Beast, Super, Sprint, and Trail Race.
Ultra/Beast/Super/Sprint - Combines an Ultra and Beast on Day one; challenging due to the start time of the Beast (typically 12:30), but it is feasible. Super. Sprint on day 2.
The Ultra consists of two loops of the Beast, along with an extra four-mile loop, which can sometimes be divided into two-mile segments or even four one-mile loops. Therefore, some simple calculations can help you determine altitude and elevation changes based on the Beast data that I ahve included below. Also here is link to all the Trifecta Weekends on this years Spartan Racer calender.
Analysis Parameters
This analysis does not take into account my personal fitness or success at each event; it centers on an objective review of all U.S. courses, venues, and related logistics. Obstacle placement is excluded unless noted, as it usually changes annually. While weather can vary each year, patterns are considered. Overall, this is a subjective analysis presented as objectively as possible. I welcome anyone with differing opinions to reach out, and I will happily make updates, particularly as we progress through the race season.
The analysis does not include the Teddy Bear Crawl, which is mainly a fun event and will be featured at 15 Tri Weekends in 2025. Finally, no race weekend made the list twice, though many could fall into the same category.
Most Challenging Trifecta Weekends
Big Bear Lake, May 17-18, 2025
Since Killington is not a trifecta weekend, Big Bear stands alone as the undisputed champion. This is a race for the big boys and girls and everything about it makes it the top of this list. Altitude, elevation changes, sunny skies and not a lot of tree cover..
For those unfamiliar with racing at high altitude, it offers a distinct experience that relies on your body's capacity to manage lower oxygen levels. I personally incorporate several high-altitude races into my annual schedule to gradually evaluate how my body adapts and recovers in these environments. I know some very fit people who find it challenging, while others with less fitness experience no problems. It's crucial to understand your own body's response. Moreover, be mindful of the sun at this race and other ski resort events. Without the protection of trees, the risk of sunburn increases, which can hinder your body's natural cooling process through sweating.
Key Take-Aways
The Beast has an elevation gain of 4,700 feet with a descent of 1,200 feet. The Sprint course alone includes a 1,732-foot elevation gain.
The Beast reaches a height of 8,200 feet above sea level, which is in the zone for altitude sickness if not managed.
Technical trails require careful attention to footing.
Cramping is a concern at this venue due to heat.
Athlete Goal
Finishing the Trifecta at this venue is an accomplishment and it's perfect for athletes who been competiitve in the competitive waves and those who have run clean races in the open wave.
This race also hosts a 10k Trail Race, and based on your fitness level, it is possible to fit it into the Sunday Trifecta schedule.
Logistics
There are numerous Airbnb options in the area as it is a resort.
Given the course's proximity to LA, travelers typically fly into LAX, which can present issues for some.
Utah , July 12-13, 2025
Utah is a close second to Big Bear. It shares many of Big Bear's features, but in July, this course can become extremely hot, with minimal tree cover for most of the Beast. Although the elevation isn't quite at Big Bear's level, the weather alone makes this a challenging course. Right from the start, you're sent up the mountain, and it can already be hot for the early morning waves. The second ascent for the Beast is longer and higher, and since it occurs later in the morning, it's even hotter. You see a lot of bucket hats at this venue to try to protect from the sun for this reason.
Key Take-Aways
Beast at 6,991 feet above sea level and and peaks at 8,192.
Total elevation for all three races: .Sprint - 1225ft Super - 2552ft , Beast - 4684ft
Technical terrain typical of mountain races with loose rocks and unstable footing.
Snowbasin Ski Resort hosts the event and is a premier western ski destination.
Athlete Goal
Good choice for those athletes who want to wait till the summer for their peak race, making it more appealing as training blocks increase.
This race does not have an Ultra or Trail Race.
Logistics
Similar to Big Bear, this is a ski resort with plenty of lodging and food options.
The venue is just north of Salt Lake City, which for some may be an easier airport to utilize, along with less traffic once you land or try to get to your outgoing flight.
Parking can be an issue depending on what time you arrive at the event. This is a popular race due to the fact it is the only one in the region on a yearly basis. That brings hotels into play, but the fact that this is a ski resort somewhat offsets that.
Tri-State April 26-27
The race takes place at Mountain Creek Ski Resort in Vernon, New Jersey. It's the only Northeast race on this list, and the terrain differs from others due to the older Appalachian Mountain range. Experienced participants often say this course has become easier over the years, mainly because the final descent no longer goes through the boulder field near the main ski slope, which sometimes required a crab walk. Despite this, the course still features several challenging climbs up the exposed ski slopes. However, since it's April in the North, the heat is not as problematic as at Big Bear or Snowbasin.
However it always involves some bushwhacking through the woods with steeper ascents and some long, steep descents. Since 2019, they have placed the dunk wall at mile 6 before heading back up the mountain, increasing the risk of cramping for those unprepared. If you're considering Killington this year, New Jersey will give you immediate feedback on where you stand in your training so you can adjust for the September Killington race. This weekend includes an Ultra.
Take-Aways
Beast. has a total course elevation of 5,000 feet.
This area near the Appalachian Mountains has some rugged terrain, and this course finds plenty of it.
There is usually still snow on this course in one section, but the weather has been rainy, cold, hot, or sunny. I have given up figuring it out. Bring everything.
Be prepared for any weather.
Athlete Goal
Entry-level mountain series race that is a step up from flatter venues.
Early season can help inform in-season training. This race includes an Ultra but no Trail Race.
Logistics
One hour drive from Newark Airport, which is much easier since they opened a brand new terminal.
Hotel options in the immediate area are slim, but 45 minutes away in Goshen or Middletown are prevalent along with food options.
Be prepared to take a shuttle bus to general parking.
Most Scenic Trifecta Weekends
Hawaii August 16-17. 2025
This venue has changed in the last two years, moving from a bushwhacking course to a course filled with hills primarily on a ranch. The new venue Dillinger Ranch makes the race more scenic and enjoyable for those traveling a long way. Because it is on Oahu, you can stay in Honolulu and still be within 40 minutes of the race venue, making hotels less of an issue and combining it with a Hawaiian vacation. My number one travel advice is to visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial before the race; you will eliinate complaining to yourself during the race.
Key Take-Aways
venue is a working ranch that hosts weddings and other events. The starting line is an oasis before we head off into sometimes open meadows and sometimes rainforest ascents. The entire venue is stunning.
It can be hot and humid, so carrying water is a must along with hydration tabs. Do yourself a favor and start hydrating the Wednesday before your race; catching up in humid weather is a losing battle.
Besides Fiji, this is the only rainforest race on the calendar, and because it's Hawaii in August, airfares and hotels are more reasonable. Check out the airfares and hotels before you decide; you might be surprised.
Athlete Goal
Destination race with friends or family that can combine a trifecta weekend with a trip to Hawaii.
IIncredible course and area, if you have never been to Hawaii, this is a part of the island you would not normally visit.
Weather can be a stark difference from your home area even in August due to humidity and rainforest micro-climate.
Logistics
August is not peak travel season in Hawaii. Airfares and hotels are much more reasonable if you book early.
You will definitely need a car, so don't underestimate booking that first.
Montana, June 21-22, 2025
Over the past two years, the location of this race has changed. It used to be held at Flathead Lake, but the Bureau of Land Management acquired some of the land, making it impossible to accommodate the longer distances. The new location is just outside Bozeman, and the scenery remains breathtaking, perhaps even more so due to its proximity to Yellowstone. Altitude isn't a significant concern, but it can become sunny, so plan accordingly. With favorable weather, this course is manageable, but June in Montana can be unpredictable. A few years ago at Flathead Lake, the race encountered a significant weather pattern, resulting in a long day. Last year, mudslides cut off the course and Beast and Ultra runners had to do multiple laps of the Super Course. So prepare for anything.
Key Take-Aways
Beast has a total coiurse elevation of 4,000 feetr
Towering pine forests and open meadows.
The race feels remote and wild, with fresh mountain air and crisp temperatures.
A natural setting with a lot of variation on the course of the beast.
The weather can be unpredictable even over the course of the weekend, so bring gear for all possibilities.
Athlete Goal
Destination race to one of the most beautiful parts of the country at a venue that may not have ever been on a bucket list otherwise.
Logistics
The good news is Bozeman is the north entrance to Yellowstone, making a trip through the park practical during your visit.
However, Bozeman also has heavy tourism, so booking hotels and flights needs to be done in advance to save money.
Be prepared for non-race traffic in the area and difficulty in finding food if restaurants are your thing.
West Virginia, September 2-3, 2025
This year's Trifecta Championship takes place in a location known for its challenging conditions, so get ready for a tough course; it's truly stunning. The race is hosted at the Bechtel Reserve, which is used for wilderness training, including the annual Boy Scout jamboree. This venue has been on the race calendar for a decade and offers a spectacular route through the New River Gorge. This region of West Virginia features some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes on the East Coast, providing a genuine nature experience. Previous races have encountered hornets and yellow jackets, so it's wise to bring an epi-pen. Fortunately, this year's race is set for September, promising less humidity than in past years, and the autumn foliage might enhance the experience. With the Trifecta Championship at this location in 2025, it's an event not to be missed.
Key Take-Aways
Total elevation gain of 3,500 feet
Beautiful course that covers the New River Gorge and winds through deep woods with prevalent wildlife.
There is always a lake swim at mile 6 of the Beast, followed by a sandbag. Be aware of cramping and plan accordingly.
Mile 6 typically runs over the gorge on a suspension bridge that is a highlight for the race season, a great opportunity to cure any fear of heights.
Athlete Goal
The Trifecta Championship this year will challenge every participant, and the atmosphere is unparalleled.
If you think Greece is too far to go for the championiship this is a great opportunity to attnd closer to home.
No Ultra evcent but there is a trail race
Logistics
You might be too late to find accommodations near the race site. Options are available north in Oak Hill and south near Beckley, but anything within a 45-minute drive is possible.
This area is not a major tourist destination, so hotel and food options are limited. West Virginia is attempting to reposition itself as an outdoor destination and they are making progress, so be aware that you may need some planning.
Be prepared to walk from your car, as this could be the largest parking lot on the race calendar.
Entry Level Trifecta Venues
Whether you do the standard Trifecta weekend or the Ultra-Fecta, there is no way around it; it's a lot of miles, so I would hesitate to use the word "easy." But if you are considering taking on the three-race challenge or the Ultrafecta Challenge, these venues are the places to start.
Fayetteville, May 3-4, 2025
Fayetteville changed venues about 6 years ago and has now found a home on McCormick Farms about 15 minutes from Fayetteville in Spring Lake. There is a lot of open field running, some nice patches in the woods with heavy tree cover, and no real elevation gain. The Ultra here is a favorite among first-timers because there is a lot of variety in the terrain, and the trees can provide some cover if you are out there a while.There is a section beneath the road with large rocks designed for runoff, which can be difficult and potentially hazardous if you're not cautious. No one enjoys falling face-first onto a rock. The major issue is humidity. North Carolina, even early in the season, is notorious for humidity, even with weather in the high 60s. So, hydrate early in the week and make sure to carry extra water and hydration tabs.
Key Take-Aways
Hills with a mix of sandy and hard-packed trails with 1,000 feet of elevation gain for the Beast.
Mud, water crossings, and soft sand can drain energy, but elevation is manageable.
Humidity and thunderstorms are an issue. You need to be fully hydrated coming into this race, especially if you have not been exposed to Carolina humidity.
Athlete Goal
If you have never done a Trifecta weekend, this is a great place to start. Easy parking, mostly flat course that has easy access to reasonably priced hotels and food options.
Logistics
Plenty of hotels in Fayetteville since it is a military town; wide range of options to choose from.
Fayetteville is not far from I-95 and the closest major airport is Charlotte, about 2 hours away.
Seattle Spartan Trifecta Weekend
For the last few years, this venue has settled into the Meadow Wood Equestrian Center, Snohomish, WA, and the course is generally flat with a sandy section down by the river for the Beast. Though weather can be unpredictable (Seattle rain), it's not hot this time of year. I would advise renting an SUV if you can; the open field in front of the venue can get super muddy. What makes this a great entry-level race is that the weather is cool in the fall, a little rain is always helpful on a long course, and the course is relatively flat. There are sections where we run around a series of farm fields, making it an interesting Beast course that will test you but leave your legs fresh for the Sunday races.
Take-Aways
1,800 feet of elevation gain for the Beast. Lush forested trails with plenty of mud and technical terrain, but nothing too imposing.
You are running through the Pacific Northwest pine forest, with incredible tree coverage.
Terrain is the different from almost every other venue on the race calender making it unique.
Athlete Goal
If you have never visited the Pacific Northwest, this venue offers an incredible experience.
The weather makes this venue a solid choice for an entry level Trifecta Weekend.
Running alongside the Snohomish River is truly unforgettable.
Logistics
Seattle-Tacoma Airport can be challenging due to heavy traffic. Traveling during off-peak hours and accounting for driving time can make the journey easier. The airport is located south of the city, requiring you to drive through Seattle to reach the venue northward, so try to avoid rush hour.
There are plenty of hotels within 30 minutes of the venue, and if you turn it into a vacation, you can enjoy some stunning views of Puget Sound.
Dallas Spartan Trifecta Weekend October 18-19, 2025
This race moved to a new venue, Twin Canyons Ranch, and it seems to have found a permanent home and a favorite among first-time ultra runners. This is a dry, dusty course with some extremely technical running sections due to large rocks strewn in dried-out riverbeds. Overall, it is flat, but the back section has a hill that always hosts a sandbag carry that will grab your attention. The terrain is surprisingly varied: sometimes desert, sometimes wooded sections, sometimes hilly, and some open running. Get ready to watch your feet for most of the race; there are more rocks on this course than just about any other one on the calendar. But overall, it is a doable Trifecta weekend with an Ultra that is compatible with an Ultrafecta.
Take-Aways
1,500 feet of elevation gain for the beast with hot, dry conditions and hard-packed trails.
Some rolling hills but not a high-elevation race.
Open terrain means wind and sun exposure all day but a mix of fast, runnable sections.
This is a moderate degree of difficulty that can be complicated if the weather doesn't cooperate, but the last few years the weather has been consistently in the 60s with cloudy skies.
Athlete Goal
Running in Texas is unique. It's not like running in the desert, so temperatures are not extreme. If you have not run here before it's worth the travel.
But it has similar terrain with small shrubs and some tree cover that make you feel like you are in a John Ford movie. Not to be missed.
Logistics
Flying into Dallas-Fort Worth is the only option. Since it's an American Airlines hub, there are a lot of flights.
The venue is about 90 minutes from the airport, and traffic can be reduced by avoiding rush hour.
There are some hotels in the area, but book early; Granbury is the best option, but Glen Rose and surrounding towns are within 45 minutes.
Gathering Intel
Perhaps this isn't the year for your Trifecta Weekend, or you might be considering taking on the Ultra next year. If so, use this season as a stepping stone to achieve next year's goal. Maybe participate in the Sunday races to get a feel for doubling up on races. Alternatively, joining the classic Trifecta Weekend (excluding the Ultra) will provide valuable insights on travel, preparation, and building mental strength to achieve your Ultra objectives next year. In any case, use this year's training to reach your eventual goals.
This includes training and recovery. Since everyone is unique, finding the plan that works for you is essential. We all respond to training methods differently and recover at different rates. This post is just information; using the information to become your own coach is crucial. If you can do that with information you gather yourself, in the field you will become the best coach you ever had.
Recovery Recommendations
Let's be honest, a Trifecta Weekend, regardless of its type, relies heavily on recovery. Here are some suggestions:
For five dollars, you can visit any supermarket and purchase Epsom salts. Add them to a bathtub and soak right after finishing your first race.
No bathtub in the hotel? If there's a pool, standing in it can help reduce inflammation.
No pool available? Local YMCAs or gyms often offer daily rates and can serve as a substitute. This is actually my preferred method. I like to visit a local gym after the race to roll out my lower body and do some mobility exercises, which helps break up the fascia and prepares it for recovery.
Consider investing in a portable massage gun; it's useful both before and after the race to relieve muscle knots. I use an affordable model that fits in my carry-on bag and take it in my day bag on race day.
However, the best thing you can do for your body after the first race is to consume protein.
If you are doing a standard Trifecta Weekend, the Teddy Bear Crawl on Sunday at 7 am is a great way to stretch things out and talk to other racers prior to your first start time on Sunday. It's also a time where you can begin hydrating for the two races on Sunday before just jumping into the starting corral. With most Supers on Sunday starting at 8 am for open waves and the Sprint starting at 12 noon, you have plenty of time between races on Sunday to stretch out, fuel, and hydrate before the last race of the weekend.
Conclusion
The Hero's Journey requires you to step out of your familiar surroundings. It may seem intimidating, but it's worth it. Trifecta weekends offer a cost-effective option for Trifecta
chasers during the season, as you can participate in three races with one travel plan. Additionally, Spartan provides Trifecta discounts for Trifectas and annual passes, adding more value. I did not list every weekend on the schedule, which can be found here. This season's schedule includes new locations in Idaho and the Midwest, broadening the series' reach and presenting new challenges. Trifecta weekends also offer the chance to explore local culture, making them a complete travel experience beyond racing.
Remember, if someone else can do it, you can do it too.
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