High Stakes, Fast Paces and Fierce Determination at the Back Mountain Triathlon
The 3rd Annual Back Mountain Triathlon returns to Harveys Lake on Sunday, August 24, 2025, continuing a tradition of racing in one of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s most scenic communities. Sanctioned by USA Triathlon (USAT), the event honors the area’s strong multisport legacy, building on the history of the former Wilkes-Barre Triathlon while creating a new chapter of competition.
Each year, the triathlon draws athletes from across the region and beyond, raising support for local nonprofits and first responder organizations, including the Back Mountain Trail, North Branch Land Trust, Harveys Lake Fire and Ambulance, Harveys Lake Little League and Food Dignity.
Spectators are welcome to cheer on the racers and enjoy a festive atmosphere with food trucks, vendors and family-friendly activities around the lake.
The swim course is a rectangular, out and back course covering 1500 meters or .93 miles. The swim portion begins and ends at Sandy Beach adjacent to the PA Fish & Boat Commission Boat Launch.
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The 20+ mile bike course features two laps, starting on Lakeshore Drive and heading toward Noxen via Route 29 before looping back to the lake area up Buckwheat Hollow Road. Cyclists will finish the course at Lake-Noxen Elementary School.
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The 6.2-mile run course starts at Lake-Noxen Elementary, following Schoolhouse Road, Church Road, Tulip Road and Hallowich Road. At the 3.1-mile mark, runners will reverse course and finish back back at the school.
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Registration for the 2025 Back Mountain Triathlon, including the Youth Fun Run for ages 6–14, is underway. Participants can compete individually or as part of relay teams consisting of 2–3 athletes. The triathlon also offers an Aquabike option. The Back Mountain Triathlon will be officially timed by NEPA Racing, Inc. and is sanctioned by USA Triathlon. Athletes may also have the opportunity to qualify for USAT Nationals.
*Registration cutoff for swag bag and tee is Wednesday, August 13 at 11:59 p.m.
*Late Registration cutoff – no swag bag and tee – is Friday, August 22 at 11:59 p.m.
Learn more about the 2025 Back Mountain Triathlon, read athlete’s stories, check out last year’s results and more here. And, if you want to be a part of the race day action without all the running, swimming and biking, you can sign up to be a volunteer.
Volunteer on Race Day
Registation Fees
Before April 30:
Single Registration Individual Olympic $147.50
Single Registration Relay Olympic $172.50
Single Registration Individual Sprint $137.50
Single Registration Individual AquaBike $147.50
Kid’s Fun Runs
Starting at 1 p.m for ages 6-8, 9-11, 12-14 – $14
Packet Pickup
Lake-Noxen Elementary School
135 West Point Ave, Harveys Lake, PA 18618
Saturday, August 23 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Sunday, August 24 from 5 to 6:30 a.m.
Race Day
Sandy Beach at the Harvey’s Lake Beach Club
Pole 2248, Harvey’s Lake, PA 18618
Sunday, August 24 at 7 a.m.
Awards
Immediately following the race, scheduled to conclude around 11 a.m.
NEPA’s race calendar is packed with exciting events—from themed 5Ks to scenic half-marathons—offering something for every runner and walker. Explore upcoming races and walks in the region to find your next challenge.
All photos Courtesy of Back Mountain Triathlon.
Article updated from its original version published on 4/13/23.
