Lake Waramaug Polar Bear Run
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About the race
The Lake Waramaug Polar Bear Run is the 42nd annual winter road race held on February 28, 2027. The event is a nonprofit effort organized and sponsored by TrailHeads, with more than 75 volunteers supporting race operations. The course is a 7.8 miles loop around a glacial lake, run counterclockwise and passing through the towns of Washington, Warren and Kent. The route is primarily flat with a few gentle rolling hills; the final 0.2 miles climb Hopkins Hill to the finish at Hopkins Vineyard. The start and finish were moved to Hopkins Vineyard in 2023, which lengthened the course from 7.6 to 7.8 miles. Entry is limited to 700 participants.
The Run benefits Guiding Eyes for the Blind and has raised over $57,000 for that organization since 2018. Polar Bear Run, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Race logistics include mile markers and course volunteers, parking in several lots near North Shore Road and Hopkins Road and near North Shore Road and Strawberry Ridge Road, and volunteers directing parking. Race number pickup is available at Hopkins Vineyard the Friday before the event from 3:00 to 7:00 PM and on race morning beginning at 9:30 AM. Walkers may register and are offered an early start. A post-race gathering called Post Polar Beer is held at Kent Falls Brewing Company, a short drive from the start and finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
