Jungle Escape - Way Over Yonder Trail Run

Way Over Yonder Series: Jungle Habitat Run Adventure
Dive into nature with the Way Over Yonder series, featuring an exhilarating run through the unique trails of Jungle Habitat. This USATF-sanctioned course offers runners a blend of single-track paths, fire roads, and paved sections that wind through the park’s diverse terrain.
The 10K+ route stretches to approximately 6.6 miles with over 600 feet in elevation gain, while the Half Marathon+ covers twice this distance at around 13.2 miles. Both courses showcase thrilling descents and challenging ascents designed to test your endurance as you explore Jungle Habitat’s rich history.
Jungle Habitat has a fascinating past; it was once Warner Brothers Safari Park before being left untouched for decades until volunteers from JORBA transformed the land into an off-road paradise in 2007. As you run, keep an eye out for remnants of its former life like the Otter Slide and Tiger Pens.
All finishers receive a wooden plaque to commemorate their achievement, while top three men and women in age groups will be awarded medals. The Half Marathon has five-year age brackets (19 & Under, 20-24, etc.), whereas the 10K features ten-year categories for both genders.
Hydration is key on these challenging courses. While aid stations provide water, GU Gels or Chews, and Skratch Hydration Drink, runners are encouraged to bring their own hydration packs or bottles due to a cupless policy aimed at reducing waste. The Half Marathon route loops back through the start/finish area where additional supplies can be stored.
To stay on course, all registered participants have access to RideWithGPS via a link in their confirmation email. This app helps navigate the trails and alerts runners of upcoming turns if they go off track.
Participants must come equipped with a charged cell phone loaded with either RideWithGPS or another GPS-enabled application using GPX files provided by RaceSG Adventures, along with hydration packs, energy snacks, and whistles for safety measures.
Weather in Jungle Habitat during autumn can be unpredictable. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to changing conditions throughout the race day. Technical T-shirts are available at the event, ideal as base layers or post-race attire; pre-ordering ensures your size will be ready upon arrival.
Parking costs $5 per car and must be paid in exact change through New Jersey State Parks’ main gate. We encourage carpooling to minimize environmental impact. Post-race festivities await all participants at the event’s finish line, complete with a celebration for volunteers who generously contribute their time and effort.
Join us this fall as we celebrate the spirit of adventure and community at Jungle Habitat!