If you're looking for a way to burn off that extra helping of stuffing, the squatchy leftovers trail race is basically the perfect way to spend your post-Thanksgiving weekend. Let's be honest, most of us spend the days after the big feast lounging on the couch, half-comatose from a turkey induced food-coma, staring at a fridge full of Tupperware. But over in the woods of New Jersey, there's a community of runners who decided that instead of napping, they'd rather hit the dirt and hunt for some "Squatchy" glory.
What is the Squatchy Leftovers Trail Race anyway?
If you aren't familiar with Sassquad Trail Running, you're missing out on some of the most laid-back, inclusive, and genuinely fun events in the Northeast. They're the folks behind the squatchy leftovers trail race, and they've built a bit of a cult following for a good reason. The "Squatchy" brand is all about the community. It's not just about who can clock the fastest time or who has the most expensive carbon-plated trail shoes. It's about getting outside, getting a little muddy, and enjoying the forest with people who don't take themselves too seriously.
The "Leftovers" part of the name is probably my favorite bit. It's exactly what it sounds like. Instead of getting a brand new, specific medal and shirt designed just for this one day, you get to dig through the "Squatchy" archives. You might walk away with a shirt from a race that happened three years ago or a medal from a completely different event. It's like a white elephant gift exchange but for trail runners. It's sustainable, it's quirky, and it keeps the entry fees reasonable. Plus, it's always fun to see what everyone else pulls out of the bin.
The Vibe at South Mountain Reservation
Most of these races take place at the South Mountain Reservation in West Orange, New Jersey. If you've never been, it's a gem of a park. You wouldn't think that just a stone's throw from the urban sprawl of Northern Jersey and NYC you'd find miles of rugged, rocky, and beautiful singletrack trails.
Late November in Jersey is well, it's unpredictable. You might get a crisp, blue-bird day where the sun hits the remaining yellow leaves just right, or you might get a gray, drizzly morning where the rocks are slick and the mud is thick enough to swallow a sneaker. That's all part of the charm of the squatchy leftovers trail race. You just show up, dress in layers, and embrace whatever the weather gods throw at you.
There's something special about the air that time of year. It's cold enough to see your breath but not so cold that your water bottles freeze. The ground is usually covered in a thick carpet of fallen leaves, which makes the technical sections a bit of a guessing game. Is there a jagged rock under those leaves? Maybe. A hidden root? Probably. It keeps you on your toes, literally.
Why this race is perfect for everyone
One thing I love about the Sassquad crew is how they treat every runner. Whether you're a local legend who's going to fly through the 10K in record time or you're someone who plans to hike the entire distance while chatting with friends, you're welcomed with open arms. They usually offer a few different distances—often a 5K, a 10K, and sometimes longer options—so you can pick your poison based on how much turkey you actually ate.
The atmosphere is less "elite competition" and more "family reunion." You'll see people in Sasquatch costumes, folks wearing tutus, and plenty of dogs enjoying the trails. The finish line is always a party. There's music, there are snacks (often actual leftovers or festive treats), and there's a lot of cheering. It doesn't matter if you come in first or last; you're going to get a high-five and a "good job" from the volunteers.
The "No DNF" Philosophy
Sassquad has this awesome "No DNF" (Did Not Finish) philosophy. They want you to finish. If you signed up for the 10K but realize halfway through that your legs just aren't feeling it, they'll often let you drop down to the 5K distance so you still get to cross that finish line and earn your "leftover" swag. It takes the pressure off. Trail running can be intimidating for beginners, but this race is the ultimate "low-stakes" entry point.
What to expect on the trail
The trails at South Mountain aren't exactly "easy," but they're manageable. You'll hit some steady climbs that will definitely get your heart rate up and some descents that require a bit of focus. The Orange Trail is a classic—it's got a bit of everything. You'll cross small streams, run along ridges, and if you're lucky, you might even see a "Squatch" hiding behind a tree (usually a volunteer in a suit, but hey, it's still fun).
The footing can be tricky. New Jersey trails are notorious for "trap rocks"—those loose, medium-sized stones that love to roll under your foot. If it's been raining, the mud at the bottom of the hills can be legendary. I'd definitely recommend wearing actual trail shoes with some decent lugs rather than your standard road sneakers. You'll appreciate the extra grip when you're trying to navigate a slippery slope.
The community and the "Sassquad" family
I can't talk about the squatchy leftovers trail race without mentioning Kim Levinsky, the founder of Sassquad. She's like the "Chief Squatch" and her energy is infectious. She puts so much heart into these events, and it shows. The volunteers are mostly regulars who just love the community. They'll stand out in the cold for hours just to make sure you find the right turn and to hand you a cup of water or a handful of pretzels.
There's a real sense of belonging here. If you show up to a Squatchy race alone, you won't be alone for long. You'll end up talking to someone at the start line or tagging along with a group on the trail. By the time you get back to your car, you've probably made three new friends and have a half-dozen "Squatchy" stickers to put on your cooler.
Training (or not training) for the race
Look, it's a holiday weekend. I'm not going to sit here and tell you that you need to be on a strict 12-week periodized training plan for the squatchy leftovers trail race. Most people use this race as a "fun run." If you've been running regularly, you'll be fine. If you haven't run in a month, you'll still be fine—you might just be a little slower and a little sorer the next day.
The best way to prepare is just to get comfortable moving on uneven ground. Go for a few hikes, do some light jogging in a local park, and maybe do a few lunges to prepare your quads for the hills. Most importantly, make sure your gear is sorted. Don't wear brand new shoes on race day, and definitely don't wear cotton socks unless you want blisters the size of quarters.
Final thoughts on the Leftovers experience
There are bigger races out there. There are races with fancy medals and giant expos and thousands of runners. But there's something incredibly refreshing about the squatchy leftovers trail race. It's a reminder of why many of us started running in the first place—to be outside, to challenge ourselves a little bit, and to be part of something bigger than ourselves.
It's about the "leftovers"—not just the gear, but the leftover energy from the holiday, the leftover snacks, and the leftover joy of a year spent on the trails. It's the perfect way to wrap up the autumn season before the deep winter sets in.
So, if you're sitting there on Friday morning, wondering if you should have another slice of pie or head out for a run, why not do both? Sign up for the squatchy leftovers trail race, grab some random swag, and enjoy the beautiful New Jersey woods. You won't regret it, even if your legs are screaming at you the next morning. It's all part of the Squatchy way of life. See you on the trails!