Thunder Chicken Squatch
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Thunder Chicken Squatch Jamboree
The Thunder Chicken Squatch is a trail running event held at Stokes State Forest in Branchville, NJ. The event takes place in the Jersey Highlands and features technical singletrack trails characterized by numerous rocks and roots. The course is located at the Kittle Picnic Area, which serves as the start and finish point and offers a covered pavilion, restrooms, and picnic tables.
Participants can choose from several distance options:
- 17 miles (Approximately 1,500 ft elevation gain)
- 10 km (Approximately 600 ft elevation gain, actual distance is roughly 6.6 miles)
- 10 km Ruck
- 5 km (Approximately 325 ft elevation gain)
The event is open to runners and hikers of all ages and paces. A total cutoff time of 6 hours is in place for all distances. The 17-mile course includes a specific on-course cutoff at the 7.65-mile mark. Due to the technical nature of the terrain, trekking poles and sturdy trail shoes with good grip are recommended.
Required gear for all participants includes a charged cell phone, a water bottle or hydration pack, at least 200 extra calories, a whistle, and a GPX map of the course on a mobile device. Prepared aid stations provide water and snacks such as bananas and granola bars, though the 5 km distance does not have on-course stations. There is a required park entrance fee for all vehicles entering the state forest. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
