Runners and hikers are invited to participate in the Lancaster Group of the Sierra Club's 13th annual Polar Bear 5K Trail Run/Hike at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023, in Lancaster County Central Park, Rockford Road, Lancaster. Participants also may bring their leashed dogs to run or walk with them. This will be the first in-person Polar Bear 5K in two years.

The 5K features numerous unique prizes and colorful ribbons. Honored will be the overall top three male and female finishers; the first-, second-, and third-place winners in numerous categories; and the first three finishers who race with their dogs. Special door and dog prizes will also be presented.

The 5K (3.1-mile) route will be the same as it was for the last in-person race, winding through the park on well-maintained trails with some hills. Participants should bring their own water bottles, and there will be a bag check. Race-day registration and check-in will begin at 8:30 a.m. at the park's Pavilion 22 (Kiwanis Lodge). Participants should park at 826 Eshelman Mill Road, Lancaster; a shuttle will be provided.

The registration fee will be discounted through Thursday, Jan. 5, with those who register by that date guaranteed to receive a knit beanie. A smaller discount will be available for those who register from Friday, Jan. 6, through Friday, Jan. 13. Preregistration will close on Jan. 13, but walk-ins may register on the day of the event. People registering in advance can pick up their race packets the day before the race, Saturday, Jan. 14, from 9 a.m. to noon at Lancaster County Motors Subaru, 1705 Manheim Pike, Lancaster.

Cancellation will be for severe weather only; updates will be posted at http://www.facebook.com/sierraclublancaster.

For more information and registration forms, visit http://lancastersierraclub.org/home/polar-bear-5k-run-hike-or-walk-your-dog, email sierraclubevent@gmail.com, or "Like" the club's Facebook page.

The Polar Bear 5K is the Sierra Club - Lancaster Group's major fundraiser. All money raised by this event supports local efforts to ease climate change. Funds raised through the 2023 race will help finance the group's "green project" grant program, which has awarded grants of up to $500 to 71 Lancaster County organizations over the past seven years. The money also will help support the group's free-to-the-public outdoor activities and educational programs.