How Long to Smoke Tri-Tip at 225°F
Plan roughly 45–60 minutes per pound, but thickness and pit conditions matter more than a single exact time.
| Weight | Planning range | Start checking |
|---|---|---|
| 2 lb | 1½–2 hours | About 75 minutes |
| 2.5 lb | 1¾–2½ hours | About 90 minutes |
| 4 lb | 3–4 hours | About 2½ hours |
Reverse-sear finish
Smoke until about 5–10°F below the desired finish, then sear 1–2 minutes per side over high heat and rest.
Times are estimates. Check several spots with a thermometer. Reviewed 2026-08-11.