Thunder Chicken Squatch Trail Jamboree

The Thunder Chicken Squatch Trail Jamboree returns to Branchville, New Jersey on Sunday, August 9, 2026, offering a variety of challenging courses for runners and hikers alike in the scenic Stokes State Forest.
Participants can expect an early start at 9am when temperatures will be cooler. The race begins near Coursen Road in the heart of Branchville’s natural beauty. As dawn breaks around 7:15am on that morning, the air temperature is expected to hover between 20 and 26 degrees Celsius, with a slight breeze coming from the east at about eight kilometers per hour. The humidity will be moderate, making for an environment where runners should stay hydrated but won’t feel overly damp or sticky.
Since its inception in recent years, this event has become more than just a run; it is now deeply rooted in community and tradition within Branchville’s military-connected families. Recognizing the sacrifices of those who serve our country, Thunder Chicken Squatch Trail Jamboree honors all active-duty military personnel, National Guard members, Reserves, and Veterans by offering them a 50% discount on registration fees using code THUNDERCHICKEN.
The trail courses wind through Stokes State Forest with varying terrain including hills, flat stretches, and rocky paths. The race features aid stations along the route where runners can refill water bottles or grab snacks from volunteers stationed at specific points throughout the course. Notably, for those participating in the Ruck division of either 15-pound or 30-pound rucksack classes, there are designated spots to drop off and pick up packs as required.
Weather on race day will likely feature an average temperature of around 21 degrees Celsius with a high possibility of sunshine during peak hours. While rain is not expected in significant amounts—projected rainfall measures at just over two millimeters—the trail conditions remain hard and dry, requiring participants to be prepared for the rigors of uneven terrain underfoot.
The Thunder Chicken Squatch Trail Jamboree offers runners several options: a 5K run through scenic trails near Coursen Road in Branchville; three variations on a 10K course including standard running distances as well as Ruck divisions with optional weights carried by participants for added challenge; and an endurance event, the 27.4-kilometer 17 Miler that tests both physical stamina and mental fortitude across varied landscapes within Stokes State Forest.

To register for one of these events, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132635 where you will find the full range of options available with registration fees starting at $35.00 USD for the 5K and increasing to $70.00 USD for the longest distance event. Early bird discounts apply until June 9, 2026.
Bib pickup is scheduled between August 8th from noon till 6pm and on race day morning starting at 8:15am sharp leading up to the start time of 9am. Please bring your confirmation email or receipt as proof of purchase when picking up your packet. Participants under 12 years old require parental consent forms signed by a guardian.
All events begin from Coursen Road in Branchville, New Jersey where clear signage will guide runners and hikers to the start line on race day morning at exactly nine o'clock sharp. Anyone with specific questions about age requirements or first-time participant instructions should review additional details provided online via event organizers’ website ahead of time.
The Thunder Chicken Squatch Trail Jamboree in Branchville, New Jersey offers a unique blend of community spirit and physical challenge for athletes looking to explore the trails near Coursen Road on August 9th. This race is particularly noteworthy for its support of military personnel through discounted entry fees while also raising awareness about mental health advocacy initiatives like Bigger Than The Trail program.