Thunder Chicken Squatch
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Event overview
Thunder Chicken Squatch takes place on August 9, 2026, at Stokes State Forest in Branchville, NJ (1 Coursen Road). The trail event offers multiple distances:
- 5K
- 10K
- 10K Ruck
- 17 miles
Registration opens February 1, 2026. Organizers state there are discounts and special codes for youth, military, and household registrations. No refunds are offered; deferrals are available under specified conditions.
Course and logistics
The courses are technical with many rocks and roots. Recommended equipment includes sturdy trail shoes and trekking poles for some participants. Elevation gain is approximately 1,500 ft for the 17-mile loop, about 600 ft for the 10K loop (course is closer to 6.6 miles), and roughly 325 ft for the 5K. Aid stations on the 17-mile route include a full station and a water-only station; the 10K has a water-only aid station. The organizer uses blue blazes and directional arrows for the 17-mile and 10K routes and pink ribbons and arrows for the 5K.
Special divisions and policies
The 10K Ruck has two weight divisions: Lightweight (15 lbs) and Heavyweight (30 lbs). Weight must be carried in a pack or ruck (no weight vests); the required weight is the pack dry weight. All rucking participants receive a GoRuck patch. Athletes over 60 and athletes with disabilities may use a pacer or guide with prior registration. The event enforces a six-hour overall course cutoff. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
