Thunder Chicken Squatch
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Event and location
Thunder Chicken Squatch is a trail running and hiking event on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Stokes State Forest in Branchville, NJ (1 Coursen Road). Registration opens February 1, 2026. The event partners with Bigger Than The Trail, a nonprofit that supports mental health and provides free therapy through fundraising.
Distances and course
Available distances:
- 5K
- 10K (also offered as a Ruck division)
- 17 miles
The course is technical with many rocks and roots. Elevation gain is about 1,500 ft on the 17-mile loop, about 600 ft on the 10K loop (the 10K course is closer to 6.6 miles), and roughly 325 ft on the 5K. The 17-mile course includes a full aid station and a water-only aid station; the 10K has a water-only aid station. The 17-mile event has a six-hour course cutoff; on-course sweepers will remove course markers after the last participants.
Entry options and rules
A Rucking Division is offered for the 10K with two dry-weight classes: 15 lbs (light) and 30 lbs (heavy). Ruck participants must use a pack or ruck (no weight vests). Military and veteran entrants are offered a military discount code for reduced entry. Additional discounts exist for youth, seniors, and certain community members. No dogs are allowed. The event does not offer refunds; deferral policies apply under specified conditions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
