Ponderosa Polar Challenge 2026

Ponderosa Polar Challenge: Choose Your Own Winter Adventure

This is a unique endurance event set against the stunning backdrop of the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort right outside of Zion National Park. Whether you’re looking for a fun walk/run or an ultra-marathon challenge you've found the right place. This race is about movement, adventure, and community—not just speed. With distances ranging from 5k to 150 miles, you decide how far you want to go within a 52-hour time limit. This race will feature three different loops (1-mile, 2-miles, and 3-miles) that can be run either direction until you reach the finish for your race distance. Note that the 2 and 3 mile loops can be combined for a longer loop option.

Run Your Own Adventure

• Choose Your Distance: Whether you’re chasing a new PR or simply soaking in the beauty of the trails.
• No Pressure: Mix up your activities with running, walking, or hiking.
• Family Friendly: Bring your family and friends to join in the weekend adventure with other activities available.
• Included Camping: For all participants, 3 nights of camping spots are included in your registration.

Meals and Nutrition

• Food for Ultra Runners: Those tackling 50K and longer distances will enjoy race weekend meals and aid station snacks.
• Energy Options: Fueling the adventure with available food like sandwiches, a taco bar, and breakfast items at the aid station.
• Breakfast for Shorter Distances: Runners in shorter distances (marathon or less) will have breakfast Saturday morning included.
• More Options: Shorter distance runners can opt in for additional meals, bring their own food, or use the on-site restaurant.

Support for Spectators

If you’re bringing a pacer, spectators, or other support they’ll either need to pay for a day pass, camping, or lodging at one of the many cabins on site through the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. Options to upgrade for meals for the weekend are also available during registration.

Honoring Adventurers & Supporting Good Causes

This race is held in honor of Lois Krotz and Tom McCabe, two adventurers who embodied the spirit of staying present, forging deep friendships, and embracing the outdoors. Their passion for exploration and human connection is at the heart of this event. A portion of race proceeds will be donated to Arctic Rescue in honor of Lois as she was very passionate about animals including her own Fei and Guan. In honor of Tom, a portion of proceeds will be donated to a trail maintenance volunteer group as his love for hiking and the outdoors were central to how he lived his life. Tom was also known to howl while out on adventures and we want to bring that type of energy to our races.

Why Ponderosa Polar Challenge?

• Choose Your Distance: Run anywhere from 1 mile to 150 miles at your own pace.
• 52-Hour Cutoff: Time is on your side—how far will you choose to go?
• Camping & Community: Everyone gets camping for the full weekend included.
• For a Good Cause: Support a local dog rescue and outdoor trail maintenance programs.

Join us for a winter running experience unlike any other. Sign up, choose your distance, and let the adventure begin!

For more information, visit the official race page: Ponderosa Polar Challenge.