Zip Thaw

Event Overview

The Zip Thaw is a spring canicross event taking place at Lake Geneva Ziplines and Adventures in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The event offers running options on over 12 miles of wooded, single-track trails shared with mountain bikers. Runners are instructed to yield to bikers and follow posted directional signs.

Course Details

Participants can choose from two distances:

• A 4 mile loop with 463 feet of elevation gain and 479 feet of loss.
• An 8 mile option, which consists of completing the 4-mile loop twice. Both events start at 9 a.m. The course begins on a gravel service road before entering the trails, which are marked with yellow utility ground flags. There are cut-off times of 10:30 a.m. for the 4-mile distance and 11:45 a.m. for the 8-mile distance.

Canicross Format

This is a dog-powered event. Participants must use a hands-free setup with a non-restrictive "Y" type harness for the dog, connected to the handler via a bungee line or handheld leash. Off-leash running, metal choke collars, and face harnesses are not permitted.

Amenities and Schedule

Check-in for athletes and gear inspection begins at 7:45 a.m. on race day. Bibs, race swag, and merchandise will be available. An indoor area in the main building is reserved for participants, with full restrooms available (dogs are not allowed inside). Water and an electrolyte drink are provided at the start/finish area. This is a cupless event, so participants must carry their own hydration vessel. Water bowls for dogs are available. No aid (drinks, food, or restrooms) is available on the course. After the run, warm food, drinks, and snacks will be provided indoors.

Awards and Other Options

Podium awards are given to the top three women's and men's teams for each distance. Every participant receives a finisher's token. A separate "Run-ation" option is available, which is an untimed, non-competitive fun run where the registration fee is a donation to general rescue funds. This option is available for both in-person and virtual participation. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.