The Squatchy Surprise

The Squatchy Surprise

The Squatchy Surprise is set for July 25, 2026 at South Mountain Reservation in West Orange, New Jersey, with the event address listed as 62 Cherry Lane. The Trail Party uses a randomized loop format: there are four distinct trail loops and colored golf balls in a bucket. Before each loop, participants draw a golf ball to determine which loop they will run or hike; a black ball allows the participant to choose any loop. Volunteers track completed loops on a public chart, so bibs must remain visible while on course.

Participants repeat the draw after every loop until a mid-event decision point when they must choose between continuing to draw golf balls or waiting for a short half mile loop that will open later. Any loop not completed before the event timer ends will not count toward final mileage. Each participant may purchase one Charity Mulligan for a cash fee to re-draw once; proceeds from these Mulligans are donated to Bigger Than The Trail, a nonprofit partner that funds free therapy.

Amenities include marked course ribbons, aid stations supplying pre-packaged items and Skratch hydration, handcrafted wooden finisher medals and finishers items, and awards for the top three male, female, and non-binary participants by miles. A Squatch Kids Club offers youth discounts, free youth entries in limited cases, wooden star medallions for young attendees and family games. A Hardship Entry option is available for scholarship consideration. Volunteers are recruited for check-in, aid stations, course sweeping and cleanup. The organizer does not offer refunds; deferral options exist under specified conditions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.