Frozen Chosin Challenge

Frozen Chosin Challenge : Overview

The Frozen Chosin Challenge is a weekend event at Johnson Shut-Ins State Park in Middle Brook, MO, held December 5–7, 2025. The Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial is sponsoring the event to honor service members who fought in the Korean War and to raise awareness and funding for the memorial. The event references the 78-mile withdrawal from the Chosin Reservoir and aims to replicate some of the winter conditions those service members endured.

The event uses trails in Johnson Shut-Ins and adjoining Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and includes river fords, steep ascents, rugged winter trail sections, and bivouac camping for the longer courses. Early December conditions are described as cold, windy, and dry with temperatures commonly in the 20s to mid 40s Fahrenheit and a chance of snow.

Courses and participation

• 40 miles - Chosin Challenge, 3-day, 2-night winter trek
• 17 miles - Devil Dog Challenge, 2-day, 1-night winter trek
• 4 miles - Warrior Course, accessible hike

The Chosin Challenge is a mandatory two-night bivouac course that follows Goggin and Ozark Trail sections and includes river crossings and high-elevation terrain. Capacity is 125. Pricing begins at $150 for a team of two; teams may include up to five members. Minimum age is 15 when accompanied by a parent/guardian or an adult family member.

The Devil Dog Challenge covers similar terrain over 17 miles. Capacity is 100 with pricing beginning at $100 for a team of two. The Warrior Course is a 4-mile accessible route with a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk section, benches, pet allowance, unlimited capacity, and separate family pricing. Teams and participant rules apply, including team size limits and requirements to assist teammates and notify staff if medical care is needed. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.