Frozen Chosin Challenge
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Frozen Chosin Challenge
The Frozen Chosin Challenge is a team-based winter trekking event held December 4 to 6, 2026, at Johnson Shut-Ins State Park in Middle Brook, Missouri. The event honors Service members who fought in the Korean War and supports awareness, education, and funding for the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial.
Teams focus on mutual support and finishing together. The event format emphasizes teamwork and endurance in winter trail conditions, and references the Battle of Chosin Reservoir as the historical moment it commemorates.
The Challenge includes three separate courses:
- Chosin Challenge: rigorous 3-day, 2-night 40-mile winter trek.
- Devil Dog Challenge: difficult 2-day, 1-night 17-mile winter trek.
- Warrior Course: accessible 4-mile hike with a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk.
Course details include trail sections on Goggin Mountain, the Ozark Trail, Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, river fords, and varied terrain including glades, climbs, and vistas. The Chosin Challenge replicates elements of a long winter withdrawal experienced during the Korean War and requires two night bivouac.
Team rules and logistics: teams must have 2 to 5 members; minimum age 15 when accompanied by a parent or an 18 year old family member. Capacities and costs vary by course. The Warrior Course is open to individuals and families and allows pets, wheelchairs, knee scooters, and bicycles under park regulations.
All participants receive a 2026 Frozen Chosin Challenge coin, a challenge T shirt, and a completion certificate when they finish their event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
