Ragnar Zion: Come for the Run, Stay for the Fun

Welcome back, Ragnar Zion! Zion Ponderosa is thrilled to host this epic relay over two days and one star-filled night, May 12-13, 2023. The site of stunning scenery and thrilling outdoor activities, Ragnar Zion 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience for thousands of participants. We say come for the run, stay for the fun!

The relay is, of course, the main attraction, covering 200 miles of picturesque terrain overlooking Utah’s Zion National Park. The race is divided into 36 legs, each ranging in length from 3 to 8 miles, divided between teams of six to 12 runners. Along the way, runners will be treated to some pretty amazing landscape and scenery.

But Ragnar Zion 2023 isn’t  just about the race. It’s also about the fun and camaraderie that come with it. Participants will have plenty of opportunities to bond with their teammates and other runners, both on and off the course. 

Here are some of the exciting activities you can expect during the race:

Camping: Ragnar Zion  takes place at Zion Ponderosa, a 4,000-acre resort on the eastern boundary of Zion National Park. Most participants opt to camp out under the stars in tent city, enjoying the crisp mountain air and starry nights. Others choose to stay in our RV campground, or select upgraded lodging such as glamping tents, Cowboy Cabins, Cabin Suites, Conestoga Wagons, or staying in a luxury vacation home with team members, friends and family. 

Swimming: Our swimming pool is open and perfect for cooling off after a long run. Relax poolside or take a dip in the pool or hot tub to soothe tired  muscles.

Vendors, food and live music:  There’s something for everyone to enjoy at Ragnar Village! 

And the fun doesn’t end there! We highly recommend hanging around for a few days after the relay race to enjoy some epic adventures. We have plenty of East Zion adventures that leave from our surrounding partners at Zion Mountain Ranch, Kanab, Thunderbird Resort, and Orderville.  

Here are some guided East Zion Adventures you won’t want to miss!

Coral Sands Canyon—This half-day Canyoneering adventure gives you the opportunity to explore stunning slot-canyons while also experiencing the unique activity of repelling. This experience has five total rappels, with the highest descent over 70 feet tall!

Powell’s Way—This full-day trip is our most complete adventure available. It includes a stunning off-road excursion into the heart of Zion National Park’s backcountry, followed by a beautiful canyoneering tour with six rappels. 

Zion Pines Guided UTV Tour—In this off-road experience, YOU get to drive! The tour consists of 30 minutes of preparation and instruction, 1 hour of driving, and 30 minutes for viewpoints and photos at various different stops.

Zion Mountain Jeep Tour—Ride along the rim of Zion National Park and explore the amazing view of East Zion!. This tour highlights views of Parunuweap Canyon in East Zion with towering mountains of sandstone and red rock.

White Sands Sunset Horseback Ride—Saddle up on the back of one of our majestic horses and experience the sunset while looking over some rolling hills with the town of Orderville in the distance. On this ride, you will be able to enjoy amazing red rock views as you ride along the base of Red Hollow and White Mountain. 

Abandoned Mine Hike—Bringing the family? This is a fun one, featuring a backcountry excursion to an abandoned mine. Fun, and different than the usual guided hikes!

Hiking Zion

Last but not least, Zion National Park and East Zion are  home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world, and participants will have the chance to explore them before and after the race. Whether it’s the iconic Angels Landing trail or the more secluded Observation Point trail, there’s something for everyone. Our Observation Point shuttle will be available the day before and the days after the race. 

Stay and play with Zion Ponderosa and East Zion Adventures.

With its combination of natural beauty, physical challenge, and camaraderie, Ragnar Zion 2023 is a favorite among runners and outdoor enthusiasts. So come for the run, stay for the fun, and make some memories that will last a lifetime!