The Tiroler Zugspitz Arena becomes the destination of the first official gravel triathlon in the DACH region

Premiere on 29 August 2026 in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena: Innovative event format combines nature, endurance and gravel sports at the highest level

The Tiroler Zugspitz Arena is making sporting history: on 29 August 2026, the unique region will host the first official gravel triathlon in the DACH region.
In the midst of one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Alps, the new event format combines sporting innovation with an Alpine backdrop and once again positions the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena as a pioneering outdoor destination.

© WAPICS Andreas Willdoner

The competition is organised by ALOHA SPORT, one of the most innovative triathlon organisers in the Alpine region. With the Gravel Triathlon, ALOHA SPORT is picking up on an international trend and translating it into a high-quality, professionally organised competition format - for the first time officially in the German-speaking region.

Swimming at 994 metres above sea level

The starting shot is fired at Heiterwanger See, one of the clearest alpine lakes in Tyrol. At 994 metres above sea level, the swim is the highest triathlon swimming competition in Austria. At the end of August - at the time of the event - the lake usually has pleasant water temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius and therefore offers ideal conditions for a fair and safe competition.

Perfect conditions for gravel bikes

As part of gravel.tirol, probably the largest gravel region in Tyrol, the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena offers ideal conditions for gravel sports: varied gravel paths, spectacular views and an extensive, natural network of trails. The cycle route is specially designed for gravel bikes, mountain bikes are also permitted, and challenges athletes with challenging metres in altitude without losing the flow.

© Tiroler Zugspitz Arena

Running in a unique natural setting

The running course is a predominantly flat gravel and forest route around Heiterwanger See. Embedded in an impressive mountain landscape, participants experience pure enjoyment of nature - fast, rhythmic and unrivalled scenery.

Distances and outlook

A sprint triathlon and a short distance are on offer, appealing to both ambitious beginners and experienced athletes.
The event is already looking to the future: the introduction of a middle distance is planned for 2027, which should establish the gravel triathlon in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena in the international racing calendar in the long term.
With this new event, the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena and ALOHA SPORT are emphasising their role as pioneers of innovative endurance sports formats. The Gravel Triathlon combines a sporting challenge, sustainable use of existing trails and an intense experience of nature - setting new standards in the sport of triathlon.

New paths for the Austrian Triathlon Federation

With the gravel triathlon in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena, the Austrian Triathlon Federation (ÖTRV) is also breaking new ground. As the first official gravel triathlon in the DACH region, this innovative format requires a further development of the existing triathlon rules. The ÖTRV Technical Commission is therefore working on specific adaptations to meet the specific requirements of the gravel sport - particularly in terms of equipment, course layout and safety. The ÖTRV is thus taking on a clear pioneering role and creating the basis for integrating gravel triathlons into the national and international competition calendar in a fair, safe and compliant manner in the future.

Registration is now possible via the website www.zugspitz-triathlon.at

Björn Scherer, Managing Director of the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena Tourism Association:

The first official gravel triathlon in the DACH region is a strong signal for the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena. It shows how our alpine landscape, existing infrastructure and new endurance sports trends can be combined in a meaningful way. Together with ALOHA SPORT, we are creating an innovative event that combines sporting quality and an intense experience of nature, attracts new guests and positions the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena in the international endurance sports scene in the long term and sustainably.

Stefan Leitner, Managing Director ALOHA PROJECT:

We are delighted to be organising the first official gravel triathlon in the DACH region in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena. This event combines everything that inspires us about the sport of triathlon: sporting challenge, nature experience and innovation. Together with the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena, we are creating a platform that attracts athletes from the entire region and beyond and establishes the region as a top destination for endurance sports. Our goal is to set new long-term standards for gravel triathlons in the Alps with this unique format.

Julius Skamen, President of the Tyrolean Triathlon Association:

The Triathlon Association Tyrol is and always has been a permanent fixture - also on the international triathlon stage - when it comes to top events. Now the first official gravel triathlon is another milestone and an absolute novelty in the triathlon scene. As President, together with my Executive Committee, we are looking forward to this event format, which is certainly future-orientated!