Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at The Squatchy Surprise, a distinctive timed endurance challenge hosted by Sassquad Trail Running on July 25, 2026, in Millburn, NJ. Offering 3-hour, 6-hour, and 12-hour formats, this event promises to test your endurance, strategy, and mental fortitude with its unique "luck of the draw" course. Typical race day conditions in late July see highs around 88°F and lows around 67°F, with an 18% chance of precipitation.

What makes The Squatchy Surprise truly one-of-a-kind is its dynamic course format. Runners will navigate the scenic South Mountain Reservation, which features four distinct trail loops ranging from 1 to 4.75 miles. Before embarking on each loop, participants draw a colored golf ball to determine their next route; pull a black golf ball, and you get "runner's choice". At 6 PM, runners face a strategic decision: continue drawing from the golf ball bucket or opt for a half-mile "mini-loop" for the final stretch. Need a re-do on your draw? A "Charity Mulligan" is available for a $20 donation, with all proceeds supporting Bigger Than The Trail, a non-profit providing free mental health therapy. The start and finish, known as "Squatch HQ" at the Locust Grove Picnic Area, serves as the central aid station, offering pre-packaged snacks, hot food items, and Skratch hydration, with gluten-free and vegan options upon request. Portajohns are available at Squatch HQ, a family-friendly area with games like cornhole and giant Connect Four.

Sassquad Trail Running events are renowned for their inclusive "Trail Party" atmosphere, welcoming runners and hikers of all ages and paces. This race embodies their commitment to community, mental health advocacy, and environmental stewardship through initiatives like the Sassquad ReTrail Project. Every finisher receives a handcrafted wood medal and a "squatchtastic" finisher's item, celebrating not just miles, but the unique experience and camaraderie found on the trails.