Swim (olympic: 1.5km, sprint: 750m)
The swim is in the Willamette River, which courses through Portland from south to north. Swimmers will start from the docks at RiverPlace Marina and finish on the swimming beach just to the south of the Hawthorne Bridge. dragon boats, kayakers, and Coast Guard will provide support and directional guidance.

The average September 1 water temperature for the past five years has been 69.4°F, according to USGS. In 2007, water temperature was 71°F.

 
Bike (olympic: 40km, sprint: 26km)
The bike course has expanded from 2007 to comprise 8.2 miles on each loop. Olympic-distance athletes will complete 3 loops, and sprint athletes will complete 2 loops. The course will include downtown stretches, forested areas with views of the city, and a tunnel. Much of the course will be closed to traffic. Bike Gallery will provide a raceday panic mechanic for all athletes.
 
Run (olympic: 10km, sprint: 5km)
The run will follow much of the river's shoreline as it courses through downtown. Starting from the transition area at the west end of the Hawthorne Bridge, runners will cross the Hawthorne Bridge and follow the Eastbank Esplanade north. After crossing the Steel Bridge, runners will proceed south through Waterfront Park before finishing on the grassy expanse next to the river. Olympic-distance athletes will complete 2 loops, and sprint athletes will complete 1 loop.