Frozen Chosin Challenge
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Event Overview
The Frozen Chosin Challenge is a multi-day winter trekking event held in December at Johnson Shut-Ins State Park in Middle Brook, Missouri. It honors the service members of multiple nations who fought during the Korean War, particularly the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. The event aims to support awareness and education of the Korean War and direct funding for the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial.
The Challenge Format
The event emphasizes teamwork and mutual support over individual competition. The "challenge" is defined as helping teammates endure winter conditions on the Ozark Trail. The event consists of three distinct courses with different distances and durations.
- Chosin Challenge: A 40-mile winter trek over 3 days and 2 nights, requiring a bivouac. It traverses the Goggin and Ozark Trail sections, featuring river crossings, ascents, and descents.
- Devil Dog Challenge: A 17-mile winter trek over 2 days and 1 night, also requiring a bivouac. It covers similar terrain with river crossings.
- Warrior Course: A 4-mile hike that is wheelchair-accessible and follows a route along the Black River to the Johnson Shut-Ins boardwalk.
All courses start at the Goggin Mountain Trailhead within the state park campground. The longer challenges use staggered starts.
Participation Details
Participants for the Chosin and Devil Dog Challenges must register as teams. The minimum age is 15, and minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Wheelchairs, bicycles, and strollers are not permitted on these two courses. The Warrior Course is open to individuals or teams, allows pets (on-leash), and permits wheelchairs.
All participants receive a commemorative award upon completing their respective event. The event has rules regarding trail etiquette, trail closure times, and a no-refund policy, with exceptions for event cancellation or specific emergencies.
Location & Conditions
The event takes place at Johnson Shut-Ins State Park in the St. Francois Mountains. Early December weather typically involves cold temperatures, wind, and a chance of snow. Participants are advised to prepare for winter conditions. The park has regulations, including a ban on alcohol and restrictions on where pets are allowed. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.