The Squatchy Surprise
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The Squatchy Surprise : July 25, 2026
The Squatchy Surprise is a timed trail event held at South Mountain Reservation in West Orange, New Jersey, with a listed address of 62 Cherry Lane. The event runs as a trail party with an organizer partnership with Bigger Than The Trail, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports mental health and provides free therapy through fundraising. Finishers receive a handcrafted wood medal and a squatch-themed finishers item. Awards are given to the top three male, female and non-binary participants with the most miles.
Format, course and support
- 12 hours
- 6 hours
- 3 hours
The course uses four different colored trail loops. Before each loop, participants draw a colored golf ball from a bucket to determine which loop they must complete; a black ball allows the runner to choose a loop. Volunteers track completed loops on a chart and bibs must be visible. At an evening decision point participants may either continue drawing or wait for a half-mile mini loop to open; incomplete loops when the timer ends do not count. One "Charity-Mulligan" is available for a $20 cash donation to allow a re-draw; proceeds go to Bigger Than The Trail. The course is marked with ribbons matching loop colors. Aid stations will serve pre-packaged items and hot food options, and Skratch Labs hydration will be available. The event has a no-refund policy; deferrals are available under stated conditions and volunteer-hour requirements for full deferral are specified for different distances. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.