Ponderosa Polar Challenge
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Event Overview
The Ponderosa Polar Challenge is a multi-distance endurance event with a 52-hour time limit. It takes place near Zion National Park at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort in Orderville, Utah.
Course Details
The event uses a looped course system. Participants run on three different loops: a 1-mile loop, a 2-mile loop, and a 3-mile loop. Runners can choose their direction for each loop. The 2-mile and 3-mile loops can be combined to create a longer loop option.
Distances and Challenges
The event offers these distances and timed challenges:
- 5k
- 10k
- Half Marathon
- Marathon
- 50k
- 50 Miles
- 100k
- 100 Miles
- 150 Miles
- 12 Hour Challenge
- 24 Hour Challenge
Participants choose their own distance goal within the time limit.
Inclusions and Amenities
Registration for all participants includes three nights of camping spots at the event site. Runners tackling distances of 50k and longer receive race weekend meals and aid station snacks. Runners in the marathon and shorter distances have breakfast on Saturday morning included, with options to add more meals for a fee. The Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort offers additional on-site amenities such as a restaurant, pool, hot tub, tennis courts, volleyball, and pickleball. A discount code for upgraded lodging (glamping, cabins, vacation homes) is provided after registration.
Charity and Honorees
A portion of the race proceeds is donated to Arctic Rescue, an animal rescue organization, and to a trail maintenance volunteer group. The event is held in honor of adventurers Lois Krotz and Tom McCabe. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
