Polar Plunge
Lookout Mountain, United States • 17 Jan 2026
Event overview
The Polar Plunge and Fun Run takes place on January 17, 2026 at Lula Lake Preserve, 5000 Lula Lake Road, Lookout Mountain, GA. It is a fundraiser for conservation; ticket proceeds support stewardship and maintenance of more than 4,000 acres and protection of the Rock Creek watershed. Current conservation efforts include safeguarding over 12,000 Hemlock trees using predator beetles, building two miles of new trails, and replacing bridges on the Moonshine Trails.
Format and logistics
The event includes a 2–3 mile fun run that leads to the launch point at Lula Lake, followed by a group plunge into the lake. The plunge is the one day each year that the public may swim in Lula Lake. The fun run is not a timed race and there are no winners. Attendees can choose to run, plunge only, or both.
Participants are responsible for bringing warm dry clothing, towels, blankets, and other items needed after getting wet. Bags should be packed into backpacks or bags for transport to the plunge site by event staff. Lula Lake will not provide lifejackets; children under 13 are required to wear a lifejacket. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian present. Spectators may attend with a ticket buyer and will walk about 0.75 mile one way to the lake. Safety kayakers will be on the water during the plunge. Commemorative shirts for 2026 are available online only. Registration closes January 14, 2026. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.