SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (July 6, 2026) — The Salt Lake Criterium returns to downtown Salt Lake City’s Granary District on August 15–16, 2026, bringing professional and amateur racing, endurance rides, running events, family activities, and spectators together for one of Utah’s premier cycling weekends.
Now in its seventh edition, the Salt Lake Criterium continues to grow as more than a race weekend. The nonprofit event promotes competitive cycling, creates opportunities for rider development, and gives the community a front-row seat to high-speed racing in the heart of the city.
This year’s event also brings back a Utah cycling favorite: The Ultimate Challenge. The gran fondo-style endurance ride became a longtime staple during the Tour of Utah era, when riders tested themselves on iconic Utah roads while sharing in the atmosphere of a professional race weekend. Its return under the Salt Lake Criterium banner reconnects longtime participants with a beloved tradition and introduces the ride to a new generation of cyclists.
The Phoenix Project will serve as presenting sponsor of The Ultimate Challenge. Through its peer-funding program, participants can raise money to support a sober active community. Riders who raise $500 or more will have the opportunity to ride alongside celebrity guests including Andrew Talansky and Christian Vande Velde, attend a VIP dinner the night before the ride, and join a community built around connection, recovery, and the open road.
The weekend will also feature elite and amateur criterium racing on courses in the Granary District. The professional races will serve as stop No. 5 on the American Criterium Cup series, bringing top domestic talent to Salt Lake City to race in front of thousands of spectators.
Organizers have also expanded the weekend beyond bike racing. A kids’ race, 5K run, one-mile run, and additional family activities will help make the event accessible to athletes, families, and community members who want to take part in the festival atmosphere.
Sponsors, volunteers, local businesses, and community partners continue to drive the event’s growth. Organizers see the Salt Lake Criterium not only as a showcase for high-level racing, but also as a way to strengthen Utah’s reputation as a destination for cycling, outdoor recreation, and active living.
More information and registration details are available at saltlakecriterium.com.
