Lake Waramaug Polar Bear Run
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Event overview
The 41st Annual Lake Waramaug Polar Bear Run takes place on February 22, 2026, at Hopkins Vineyard in Warren, Connecticut (25 Hopkins Rd). The event is organized by Polar Bear Run, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization, and is supported by more than 75 volunteers. The race is limited to 700 participants.
Course and format
The event features a 7.8 mile loop around Lake Waramaug. The course runs counterclockwise along the lake shoreline and passes through the towns of Washington, Warren and Kent. The route is primarily flat with a few gentle rolling hills; the final 0.2 miles include an ascent up Hopkins Hill to the finish at Hopkins Vineyard. Parking and registration take place near Hopkins Vineyard, with parking available in several lots near the intersection of North Shore Road and Hopkins Road. Number pick-up is offered both the Friday before the race and on race day.
Awards, beneficiary and history
Prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers, with first overall receiving a $100 TrailHeads gift card and a bottle of wine from Hopkins Vineyard. Age group awards are presented for the top three in each category: 18 & under, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70 & over. The event has supported Guiding Eyes for the Blind since 2018 and has raised $45,089 for that beneficiary to date. The race was lengthened from 7.6 to 7.8 miles when the start/finish moved to Hopkins Vineyard in 2023. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
