Team hippoGriffin: Trail Adventures for All
At Sassquad Trail Running, we believe the trails are for everyone! Team HippoGriffin supports runners and hikers with a physical, intellectual, and/or neurodevelopmental disability who need a guide to explore the trails safely and confidently.
How It Works
Runners and hikers who need support will be paired with volunteer guides to train together through group meet-ups on local trails. All meet-ups are at the South Mountain Reservation in West Orange, NJ, on the Squatchy Leftovers 5K course, and will last approximately 2 hours. These sessions will help build confidence, connection, and community by gaining familiarity with the trails. We host "Newbie Meet-Ups" in conjunction with Team HippoGriffin Meet-Ups so that everyone (regardless of experience) can feel comfortable joining, learning, and enjoying the outdoors together.
Who Can Join team hippogriffin?
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Runners and hikers with a physical, intellectual, and/or neurodevelopmental disability who need a guide to enjoy the trails. Space is limited to 20 athletes.
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Experienced trail runners and hikers who volunteer to guide and support an athlete.
upcoming Meet-ups
(Please RSVP to each one you plan on attending)
*Special information for our June 13th gathering: We are excited to share that our friends at Kizik will be sponsoring this meet-up! As the originator and leader of hands-free footwear, Kizik believes the ultimate hands-free experience delivers value beyond convenience and ease. It can enrich your life and unlock possibilities, because your shoes shouldn't slow you down- they should launch you forward. Now, Kizik is on a mission to bring comfort and ease to your daily run with our first-ever running shoe, which is launching in mid-April! This responsive running shoe is designed to provide a smooth heel-to-toe transition and medial support, paired with a pillow-like midsole and our revolutionary heel tech. You can see their variety of hands-free styles on our website at kizik.com. As a proud partner of this meetup, Kizik is thrilled to announce that every attendee will get 20% off their next purchase with us!
Sunday July 19, 2026 (Trail-Churn Ice Cream Day!)
what is a hippogriffin?
Long ago, deep in the heart of the enchanted Squatchlands, the mighty HippoGriffin was born. A legendary creature with the heart of a lion, the soaring spirit of an eagle, the sturdy strength of a horse, and just the right amount of sass. The HippoGriffin isn’t just a mythical creature, it’s a symbol of courage, freedom, and adventure for every trail lover who dreams of exploring the wild with confidence.
CONOZCA NUESTRO EQUIPO
Team HippoGriffin is breaking barriers and building community by creating inclusive trail running experiences for athletes with disabilities. Your donation directly supports our mission to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy, freedom, and empowerment of the trails.
With your help, we can provide essential equipment like communicator boards for our nonverbal athletes, adaptive gear for runners with mobility challenges, and other tools that make participation possible.
Every dollar makes a difference. Whether you're giving $5 or $100, your support helps us open the trail to all. Donate today and join us in rewriting what’s possible!