Ponderosa Polar Challenge
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Ponderosa Polar Challenge
Ponderosa Polar Challenge is a small trail event held November 7–9, 2026 at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort near Zion National Park in Utah. The event offers looped courses that return to a central aid station where runners can find food, drinks, ice, basic first aid, and logistical support.
Distances offered include:
- 5K
- 10K
- Half marathon
- Marathon
- 50K
- 50 miles
- 100K
- 100 miles
- 150 miles
- 12-hour
- 24-hour
The course is built from three base loops of 1, 2, and 3 miles that can be combined for longer distances. The 1-mile loop uses mainly improved gravel paths with a short trail and road section. The 2-mile loop mixes trail with resort paths. The 3-mile loop is largely single-track and reaches toward the Checkerboard Mesa Overlook. Event staff track each participant's distance until they reach their goal.
Race registration includes three nights of camping and a Friday pasta dinner at check in. Additional participant provisions include breakfast at the start, traditional aid station food during the race, prepared meals for 50K and longer registrants or available as an upgrade, access to resort bathrooms and showers, and other resort amenities. Finishers receive handmade medals; marathon and longer finishers also receive mugs, and 100-mile and 150-mile finishers receive belt buckles.
Walkers and trekking poles are permitted. The 1-mile loop is the most stroller-friendly, though sections include gravel and dirt. Crews, pacers, and dogs are allowed subject to resort access, waiver, and rules; dogs must be leashed and may not be allowed inside cabins. The event includes timed 12-hour and 24-hour options with separate time limits. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
