Thunder Chicken Squatch
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Thunder Chicken Squatch Trail Jamboree
The event takes place on August 9, 2026 at Stokes State Forest in Branchville, NJ, using 1 Coursen Road as the park address. Multiple distances are offered for runners and hikers of different interests.
- 5K
- 10K
- 10K Ruck (two weight divisions)
- 17 miler
The courses are technical with many rocks and roots. Estimated elevation gain is about 1,500 ft for the 17 mile loop, roughly 600 ft for the 10K loop (course distance closer to 6.6 miles), and about 325 ft for the 5K. Trekking poles may help and sturdy trail shoes with good grip are recommended. The 17 miler is not recommended for children under age 14.
A 10K Rucking Division includes two dry-weight divisions: 15 lb (light) and 30 lb (heavy). A pack or ruck is required; weight vests are not allowed. All rucking participants receive a GoRuck patch.
There is a six hour overall cut-off (about 21 min/mi pace for the 17 miler). The 17M course will have a full aid station plus a water-only station; the 10K has a water-only aid station. Course markings use blue blazes and directional arrows for the 17M and 10K, and pink ribbons and arrows for the 5K.
Discounts and youth options are available: youth under 19 have a 15% code and some free youth entries are offered. Families and community hardship options are described by the organizers. All runners and hikers receive a handcrafted wooden medal and a selectable swag item. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
