Ponderosa Polar Challenge

NOV

7-9

2026

Take on the Ponderosa Polar Challenge at Zion Ponderosa November 7 to 9, 2026 with looped 1, 2 and 3 mile laps and choices from 5k to 150 mile and timed challenges. Camp under the stars, savor hearty aid station fare, and support trail and animal rescue causes.

7-9 Nov 2026

Zion National Park, Utah

Website Registration

24 hour 150 miles 100 miles 12 hour 100 kilometers 50 miles 50 kilometers Marathon Half Marathon 10 kilometers 5 kilometers

Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.

Event overview

The Ponderosa Polar Challenge 2026 takes place November 7-9, 2026 at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort in Orderville, Utah. The event offers a range of race options from short distances up to ultra distances and timed challenges. Participants choose their distance and must complete it within a 52-hour cutoff.

Race format and services

The course uses three loop options - 1 mile, 2 miles, and 3 miles - which can be run in either direction. The 2- and 3-mile loops may be combined to form a longer loop. All participants receive three nights of camping as part of registration. Aid and food are located at a home base / aid station at the start/finish of each loop; examples of available items include sandwiches, a taco bar, hamburgers and hot dogs, and breakfast items. Runners entered in 50K and longer distances are provided race-weekend meals and aid station snacks. Runners in distances of a marathon or shorter have breakfast provided on Saturday and may opt in for additional meals for a fee. Pacers, spectators, and support persons need a day pass, camping, or on-site lodging through the resort.

A portion of event proceeds will be donated to an animal rescue organization and to a trail maintenance volunteer group in recognition of the event’s connection to outdoor recreation and stewardship.

Distances Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.