The Battle of Chosin Reservoir, or “Changjin” as it’s called in Korea, was a two-week-long bloodbath pitting a single US Division, 30,000 US, Republic of Korea, and British troops against 3 Chinese Divisions numbering over 120,000 Chinese soldiers. United Nations troops (later nicknamed “The Chosin Few”) under the field command of Major General Oliver P. Smith were encircled and fought a brutal 17-day battle in temperatures as low as minus 35 degrees. This battle was fought between 27 November and 13 December and is known as The Battle of Chosin Reservoir and was a defining moment of the Korean War.
Frozen Chosin Challenge
The Frozen Chosin Challenge honors those U.S. Marines, Army, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard Service members who fought during the Korean War between 1950 and 1953. Fourteen nations committed service members to the United Nations Command including the Republic of Korea, whose troops fought to preserve their homeland. From the Pusan Perimeter, Inchon, and Seoul to Sudong-ni, Koto-ri and the mountain battlefields of the Chosin Reservoir; Hagaru-ri and Yudam-ni we remember the sacrifices of all those who answered the call to fight for South Korea’s freedom and democracy. Some gave all, all gave some. In their memory the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial is sponsoring this event, the Frozen Chosin Challenge which will continue bringing awareness to their sacrifices and honor.
This event will support awareness and education of the Korean War, specifically the Battle of Chosin Reservoir; along with direct funding for the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial ensuring this will never be the “forgotten war.”
Location: Johnson Shut-Ins State Park, Middle Brook, MO
Dates: December 6th – 8th, 2024
What’s the Challenge?
The “Challenge” is not between individuals or teams, but about teamwork. It’s about the “Challenging” teamwork that’s required to ensure that each member of your team will succeed while enduring the hardships and harsh environment of a winter along the Ozark Trail. It’s the “Challenge” of helping a buddy out when you’re just as tired, being the positive one or the joke teller, and being a leader while ensuring you finish with everyone your team started with. Along the way remember the coalition of Marines and soldiers who fought for 78 miles during the coldest winter in recorded history on the Korean Peninsula. Leave no one behind.
This first event will be the barometer for the events to follow for the Missouri Korean War Veterans Memorial. Follow-on events will be the entire 78 miles of the withdrawal conducted by the 1st Marine Division and X Corps forces from the Chosin Reservoir in December 1950.
The Frozen Chosin Challenge consists of three separate events. The Chosin Challenge, the Devil Dog Challenge and the Warrior Challenge. Each event has its own challenges and rigors, choose the one that’s right for you!
Chosin History
The Chosin Reservoir (Changjin Reservoir) is a man-made lake located in the northeast of the Korean peninsula.
From the end of November to mid-December 1950, it was the site of one of the most brutal battles between the UN and Chinese Communist Forces (CCF) during the Korean War.
On 26 November, the Eighth Army was in full retreat, and in danger of being cut off from the south and surrounded.
Frozen Chosin Challenge Courses
Chosin Challenge Course
The Chosin Challenge Course is a rigorous 3-day, 2-night, 40-mile winter trek that begins December 6th through the Goggin and Ozark Trail Sections of Johnson Shut-Ins and Taum Sauk Mountain within Missouri State Parks. The trailhead begins at the base of Goggin Mountain within the beautiful Johnson Shut-in State Park Campground. The trail will take you along a 28.5-mile journey outbound across Goggin Mountain and along the Ozark Trail and is considered one of the best trails in Missouri. The trail takes backpackers over ancient mountains with grand vistas, through glades, fording the Black River, past the state’s highest waterfall and highest point and then back 11.5 miles through the Devil’s Tollgate and another winter river crossing back to the Johnson Shut-Ins completing the course by 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8th. This course was picked to replicate the conditions our Marines and soldiers endured during their 16 Day, 78 mile fighting withdrawal in temperatures as low as -35 degrees.
Devil Dog Challenge Course
On Saturday December 7th, beginning at 7:00 a.m. the first participants will be crossing the starting line for the 2-day, 1-night, 17-mile Devil Dog Challenge Course. The trailhead begins at the base of Goggin Mountain within the beautiful Johnson Shut-in State Park Campground. The trail takes backpackers over ancient mountains with grand vistas, through glades, fording the Black River and along rugged winter mountain trails with steep inclines, a winter bivouac for 1 night and another river crossing before finishing at the JSI Finish Line located at the JSI State Park Day Use Area by 2:00 p.m., December 8th. This will also be a staggered start with participants crossing the starting line in 5-minute intervals.
Warrior Challenge Course – Accessible
On Sunday, December 8th, at 9:00 a.m. the first participants will cross the starting line for the 3.6-mile Warrior Challenge Course. Beginning in the campground near the Goggin Mountain Trailhead the trail traverses an open field before crossing under Highway N and over a bridge at Cope Hollow then along the Black River to the Shut-Ins and a wheelchair-accessible .3-mile boardwalk trail above the flowing waters of the shut-ins. The trail then returns you back to the Johnson Shut-Ins Day Use Area and the finish line. This course is wheelchair-accessible and open to all hikers; the trail offers benches along the way for convenient resting places.
Chosin Challenge Registration
The 40-mile trek is a mandatory 2-night bivouac. This will replicate what our Service members endured in the winter of 1950 during their 78 mile “attack in a different direction” from the Chosin Reservoir.
Minimum age to participate is 15 years old, provided the individual is registered and hiking with a parent/guardian or a member of the family 18 years or older. (Child MUST be with parent/ guardian at all times when on the route)
No wheelchairs, knee scooters, bicycles or strollers are allowed.
Capacity
150
Cost
$250 for a team of two. $100 each additional team member up to a maximum of 5.
Estimated Time of Completion
40-miles 3-days, 2-nights. Beginning at Goggin Trailhead between 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. on December 6th, completing prior to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8th (team start times are included within your packet).
Packet Pick-up
2-Day Packet Pick-up Dates:
• Thursday, December 5th, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Black River Center at JSI State Park)
• Friday, December 6th, 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. (Goggin Mtn. Trailhead Starting Line)
Note: Please ensure you pick up your packet prior to or on the morning of your event. Packet includes “Challenge Wristband” which must be worn while on trails.
Finish & Recognition
Commemoration and Challenge completion awards will be given to each participant who completed their respective event.
Completion Ceremony commences at 3:00 p.m., December 8th.
Teams
Teams will consist of a minimum of 2 members, maximum of 5.
Team leader will check out with Challenge staff at trailhead and check in/out along the route as required.
All teams are required to trek single file for the first two miles of the Challenge. This allows fellow backpackers room to pass.
All members must strive to cross the finish line within two minutes of each other. No team will abandon or leave behind a member. If a team member cannot continue, it is the team’s duty to ensure that they are cared for and to notify the Challenge Staff who will organize medical care and/or evacuation. Leaving a Team member behind is not in the spirit of the Frozen Chosin Challenge. Once a team member is left in the care of medical or rescue personnel, the remainder of the team may choose to complete the course.
Devil Dog Challenge Registration
This 17-mile backpacking/bivouacking event will traverse some of the same terrain as the Chosin Challenge Course with two river crossings and steep terrain along the way.
Minimum age to participate is 15 years old, provided the individual is registered and hiking with a parent/guardian or a member of the family 18 years or older. (Child MUST be with parent/ guardian at all times when on the route)
No wheelchairs, knee scooters, bicycles or strollers are allowed.
Capacity
200
Cost
$200 for a team of two. $80 for each additional team member up to a maximum of 5.
Estimated Time of Completion
This course begins at the Goggin Mountain Trailhead between 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. on December 7th and finishes at the Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park Day Use Area by 2:00 p.m., December 8th.
Packet Pick-up
3-Day Packet Pick-up Dates:
• Thursday, December 5th, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Black River Center at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park)
• Friday, December 6th, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Black River Center at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park)
• Saturday, December 7th, 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 a.m. (Goggin Mtn. Trailhead Starting Line)
Note: Please ensure you pick up your packet prior to or on the morning of your event. Packet includes “Challenge Wristband” which must be worn while on trails.
Finish & Recognition
Commemoration and Challenge completion awards will be given to each participant who completed their respective event.
Completion Ceremony commences at 3:00 p.m., December 8th.
Teams
Teams will consist of a minimum of 2 members, maximum of 5.
Team leader will check out with Challenge staff at trailhead and check in/out along the route as required.
All teams are required to trek single file for the first two miles of the Challenge. This allows fellow backpackers room to pass.
All members must strive to cross the finish line within two minutes of each other. No team will abandon or leave behind a member. If a team member cannot continue, it is the team’s duty to ensure that they are cared for, notify medical care and evacuation with Challenge Staff. Leaving a Team member behind is not in the spirit of the Frozen Chosin Challenge. Once a team member is left in the care of medical or rescue personnel, the remainder of the team may choose to complete the course.
Warrior Challenge Registration
Minimum age to participate is 15 years old, provided the individual is registered and hiking with a parent/guardian or a member of the family 18 years or older. (Child MUST be with parent/ guardian at all times when on the route)
Pets (In accordance with Missouri State Parks Regulations), wheelchairs, knee scooters, or bicycles are allowed on the 3.6-mile Warrior course.
Capacity
Unlimited
Cost
• Individual: $50, $80 Team of two, $40 for each additional member up to 4.
• Family: $130 Family of three, $30 each additional family member.
Estimated Time of Completion
3.6 mile “All Accessible:” 2 -3 hours to complete. Course is on December 8th beginning at 8:00 a.m. Course closes at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8th.
Packet Pick-up
4-Day Packet Pick-up Dates:
• Thursday, December 5th, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Black River Center at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park)
• Friday, December 6th, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Black River Center at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park)
• Saturday, December 7th, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Black River Center at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park)
• Sunday, December 8th, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. (Goggin Mtn. Trailhead Starting Line)
Note: Please ensure you pick up your packet prior to or on the morning of your event.
Finish & Recognition
Commemoration and Challenge completion awards will be given to each participant who completed their respective event.
Completion Ceremony commences at 1:00 p.m., December 8th.
Teams
For the 3.6-mile “Warrior Course” individual members will be allowed to participate. Teams will consist of a minimum of 2 members, maximum of 5.
Frozen Chosin Challenge Rules
CD players, music, etc. are allowed only if headphones are used.
Challenge route will close at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8th, 2024.
Removal of signs or other markers is strictly prohibited.
Refunds will NOT be given once registered. However, for event cancellation due to inclement weather a refund will be issued minus a small administrative fee. Specific situations such as military deployment or medical emergencies will be taken into consideration. However, the individual must contact us directly at [email protected] and provide appropriate documentation.
Good sportsmanship and trail etiquette is expected at all times.
Lost and Found bins will be placed near the start and finish lines. The Missouri Park Service, Challenge Staff, and Volunteers are NOT responsible for items discarded on the Challenge route or left in the lost and found bins. Items that are not claimed within 7 days of the end of the event will be donated to local area shelters. Items discarded on the Challenge route will be picked up, if noticed, by staff and volunteers and placed in the lost and found bins throughout the weekend. Please note that staff and volunteers will NOT be sent to search for any discarded items and participants will NOT be allowed back on the course to find lost items until the event is completed.
Location
Johnson Shut-Ins State Park is located in Middle Brook, MO less than 2 hours south of St Louis in South Eastern MO.
Nestled in the beautiful wilderness of Reynolds County Missouri, Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park offers a unique and exciting outdoor experience. With its intriguing geological features that span over 1.4 billion years, the park is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts. The state park is jointly administered with adjoining Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, and together the two parks cover more than 16,000 acres in the St. Francois Mountains region of the Missouri Ozarks.
At the heart of the park, you find the renowned Shut-Ins, where the East Fork of the Black River flows through ancient volcanic rock formations, creating natural water chutes and pools.
Weather
Early December in the Saint Francois Mountains is characterized by temperatures ranging from 5 to 45 degrees.
Participants can expect cold, windy, and dry conditions with a chance of snow already on the ground. The main weather hazard in December is the threat of driving snowstorms which can reduce visibility.
Over the period of record 2000-2023, the 24-hour average wind speed in early December is about 8 mph, with maximum gusts of near 16 mph. However, wind speeds along the north-facing slopes can be much higher.
Winds are typically at their calmest early in the morning, around sunrise, then gradually increase in intensity as the ground heats up through the morning. Peak winds are usually observed during the mid or late afternoon hours.
Morning low temperatures average in the low-mid 20s Fahrenheit, with cooler temperatures likely before sunrise.
Sunrise on December 6th, 2024 will be at 7:00 a.m. with sunset at 4:40 p.m.
Daylight is 9 hours and 40 minutes
Visitors should be aware of changing weather conditions and water levels, which may affect their stay at the park. Remember to check with the park office or online for maps, trail conditions, and any closures before heading out to explore the magnificent natural wonders of Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park and its neighboring attractions.
Park Safety & Regulations
Water Safety Tips
It’s highly recommended to wear water shoes while wading or crossing the Black River within the Shut-Ins due to the slippery rocks and uneven surfaces. Also, during periods of heavy rain, the water levels and currents can change rapidly.
Park Officials Rules Enforcement
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park follows strict rules and regulations to ensure the safety of its visitors and protect the park’s natural resources.
Observe posted speed limits and parking restrictions within the park area.
Permitted parking is limited to designated areas only.
No alcohol is allowed in the park.
Obey all posted signs and rules.
Pets are allowed in certain areas and must be on a leash at all times (in accordance with Missouri State Parks Regulations).
Camping is allowed only within designated campgrounds or backcountry areas.
In addition, the park is located near the town of Lesterville and other small communities. Visitors should respect local residents and follow any additional rules or regulations that may be posted within the area. By taking personal responsibility and following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.
Accommodations
Shepherd Mountain Inn
Located less than a 30-minute drive from Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.
1321 N Highway 21, Ironton, MO
(573) 546-7418
WEBSITE
Farmington, Missouri
Brand hotels like Hampton, Holiday Inn Express, Quality Inn, and Super 8. Closer hotels near Johnson Shut-Ins include a few Bed and Breakfasts or motels.
Camping
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park offers walk-in, basic, electric, sewer/electric/water equestrian electric/water campsites. The park also has a special-use camping area. Sites can be reserved by contacting Missouri State Parks.
Make a Campsite Reservation
877-ICampMO (877-422-6766)
WEBSITE
Frozen Chosin Challenge Questions
Volunteer or Sponsor
It is a privilege to support the hundreds of hikers and ruckers that come out in memory and pay tribute to our Korean War Veterans for the sacrifices they made throughout and for those who were engaged in the Chosin Reservoir Campaign during the winter of 1950. If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity that gives back in ways that you would never have imagined, this is the one for you.