Great Falls to Host Full IRONMAN Race in 2027

The first full-distance IRONMAN in Montana is scheduled for August 15, 2027, in Great Falls.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Running

Great Falls to Host Full IRONMAN Race in 2027

Live Poll

Will hosting a major international race bring significant economic benefits to the Great Falls community?

Great Falls is set to host its first full-distance IRONMAN competition on August 15, 2027. The city is one of 10 North American locations chosen for a race of this level.

Why it matters

Local tourism leaders anticipate the event will drive significant economic activity through visitor spending and overnight stays. Organizers selected the city for its landscape and community spirit.

The race spans a total distance of 140.6 miles, comprised of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. This event serves as an official qualifier for the 2027 IRONMAN World Championship.

The players

IRONMAN

IRONMAN is an international organization that manages and promotes long-distance triathlon events worldwide.

The details

Athletes will tackle a 2.4-mile swim in the Missouri River before completing the 112-mile bike course and a 26.2-mile run along the river. The race will conclude at a finish line located near Elks Riverside Park.

The first full-distance IRONMAN in Great Falls occurs on August 15, 2027.

Season Trajectory

Adding Great Falls to the circuit expands the footprint of high-level endurance sports in the Northwest region. This race alters the season landscape by providing a new competitive venue for athletes vying for professional and amateur rankings.

Local participants can use this event to qualify for the 2027 IRONMAN World Championship without traveling out of state. Residents should anticipate significant traffic adjustments and venue closures near the Missouri River and Elks Riverside Park during the race.

The takeaway

This event highlights the growing capacity of smaller cities to host major international endurance sports. Athletes should begin training for the specific challenges of the Missouri River swim and the surrounding terrain well in advance of the 2027 date.