2026 Pond Fest Winter Trail Runs And Snowshoe Race

The 2026 Pond Fest Winter Trail Runs And Snowshoe Race is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Chenango Valley State Park in Chenango Forks, New York. Participants will navigate a 10K loop course on natural-surface trails through the park, which may be covered in snow, ice, or mud depending on winter conditions. The event functions as a self-supported challenge where runners complete multiple laps to achieve their selected distance, situated within the lively atmosphere of the concurrent Binghamton Pond Festival.

Event Format

What is the event format and terrain?

• →This is a true winter trail race on natural-surface trails through Chenango Valley State Park.
• →The course consists of a 10K loop through wooded areas, around ponds and hills.
• →Participants complete multiple laps of the 10K loop to reach their chosen distance (10K, 20K, 50K).
• →The terrain includes variable winter conditions such as snow, ice, roots, and mud.

Distances

What distances are available for this event?

• →50K (5 loops) starting at 7:00 AM EST
• →20K (2 loops) starting at 9:00 AM EST
• →10K (1 loop) starting at 1:00 PM EST
• →Kids Run (Fun Dash) starting at 12:30 PM EST

Registration Fees

How much does registration cost?

• →50K: $160 (includes fees)
• →20K: $75.20
• →10K: $48.70
• →Kids Run: Free

Registration Deadlines

When does registration close for each race?

• →50K: January 16, 2026, at 11:59 AM EST
• →20K: January 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST
• →10K: January 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM EST
• →Kids Run: January 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST

Equipment and Gear

What equipment is required for the race?

• →Trail shoes with traction are essential.
• →Snowshoes are allowed and may be required depending on snow depth.
• →Participants must carry their own water, nutrition, and emergency gear between loops.
• →Hydration vests or handheld bottles are recommended.

Aid and Support

Is the race supported with aid stations?

• →The event is self-supported; runners must carry supplies between loops.
• →An aid station is available at the Start/Finish area only.
• →The aid station provides water, electrolyte drink, and typical ultra fare (chips, fruit, gels, warm broth—menu TBA).
• →Refueling is available between loops at the Start/Finish.

Weather and Conditions

What are the expected weather conditions?

• →The event takes place in January in upstate New York.
• →Participants should expect variable winter conditions including snow, ice, mud, or packed ground.
• →Runners must be prepared for cold temperatures and potentially hazardous footing.

Festival Atmosphere

What is the festival atmosphere like?

• →The race is part of the Binghamton Pond Festival.
• →The festival features outdoor refrigerated hockey on a large rink (220’ x 110’).
• →Food trucks, live music, and spectators are present in the Start/Finish area.
• →Leashed dogs are welcome in park areas.

Charity

What charities benefit from the event?

• →Proceeds support local nonprofits focused on youth sports, education, and community development.

Snowshoe Policy

Is snowshoeing allowed or required?

• →Snowshoeing is allowed for all participants.
• →Snowshoes may be required if snow depth dictates; check pre-race updates for confirmation.