Sierra Club - Lancaster Group Polar Bear 5K Trail Run/Hike

Event overview

The Sierra Club - Lancaster Group Polar Bear is a trail run and hike held on January 10, 2026, at Lancaster County Central Park, Kiwanis Lodge (Pavilion 22), 826 Eshelman Mill Road, Lancaster, PA 17602. The course is a 5K (3.1 miles) that begins and ends at Kiwanis Lodge and follows maintained park trails with some hills. The event is chip timed (gun start) and provides instant results at the finish area. Funds raised support the Green Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to local environmentally focused organizations.

Logistics, registration and rules

Registration pricing: early bird registration through December 25 is $30; registrations after December 25, including race day, are $35. Online registration closes January 2 at noon; packet pick-up is available the day before the event. A shuttle runs from the parking lot to the starting line; participants are asked to allow time for shuttle service and bib pick-up. Short sleeve race shirts are available as an add-on for $25 if selected during registration; shirts are guaranteed only for registrations before December 5.

The course may include mud, snow, and ice in January; trekking poles and microspikes are allowed. Dogs are permitted on leash; owners must pick up and properly dispose of waste. Participants receive a drawstring bag as a finisher item. Awards include top three overall male and female, top three dogs with humans, and top three male and female in each age group (9 & under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+). The event is held rain or shine. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.