TRENTON, NJ — When you think of New Jersey, hiking might not be the first thing that enters your mind. With the weather starting to warm, spring is the best time to hit the trails and go hiking.
New Jersey’s varied landscapes, from the Appalachian Ridge to the coastal plains, offer outdoor enthusiasts a plethora of options for exploration and adventure. Here, we highlight some of the best hiking trails that the Garden State has to offer.
The Appalachian Trail (Wawayanda State Park) Spanning a segment of the famous Appalachian Trail, Wawayanda State Park offers hikers a unique blend of challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery. This section of the AT, approximately 20 miles long within the park’s boundaries, features diverse landscapes including dense forests, marshy lands, and the picturesque Terrace Pond. Hikers can enjoy the serene beauty of the highlands while navigating through rocky outcrops and tranquil forest paths.
The Batsto Lake Trail (Wharton State Forest) Nestled in the heart of the Pine Barrens, the Batsto Lake Trail provides a tranquil escape into nature. This 4-mile loop trail circles the historic Batsto Lake, offering easy to moderate hiking through pine forests and cedar swamps. The trail is well-marked and features points of interest such as the historic Batsto Village, making it perfect for families and individuals interested in both nature and New Jersey’s rich colonial history.
Mount Tammany (Delaware Water Gap) For those seeking a more strenuous hike with rewarding views, Mount Tammany delivers. Located at the Delaware Water Gap, this trail offers a challenging ascent to the summit of Mount Tammany, where hikers are greeted with stunning views of the Delaware River and the surrounding valley. The Red Dot and Blue Dot trails, totaling about 3.5 miles for a round trip, provide a vigorous workout and scenic overlooks that make the effort worthwhile.
The Stairway to Heaven (Pochuck Valley to Pinwheel Vista) Offering one of the most picturesque vistas in New Jersey, the “Stairway to Heaven” trail leads to the breathtaking Pinwheel Vista. This moderate hike, part of the Appalachian Trail, spans approximately 7.3 miles round trip and features a boardwalk through a marshland, a suspension bridge over the Wallkill River, and a steep climb up the stairway to the summit. The panoramic views of the Pochuck Valley, Vernon Valley, and the Kittatinny Mountains are a fitting reward for this adventurous trek.
South Mountain Reservation (Essex County) Covering over 2,000 acres, the South Mountain Reservation offers an extensive network of trails for all skill levels. The Reservation features scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and meandering streams, making it a perfect location for leisurely hikes and nature walks. The Hemlock Falls trail, a moderate 5-mile loop, is particularly popular for its beautiful waterfall and serene woodland paths.
The Pine Barrens River Ramble (Brendan T. Byrne State Forest) This gentle trail is ideal for those interested in exploring the unique ecosystem of the New Jersey Pine Barrens. The River Ramble is a 6.5-mile loop that takes hikers along sandy paths, through pitch pine forests, and past the serene waters of the Whitesbog Village. The trail offers a peaceful hiking experience, with opportunities to observe the region’s distinctive flora and fauna.
As New Jersey continues to offer an expansive array of hiking opportunities, these trails represent just a glimpse of the natural beauty awaiting discovery. Whether seeking a challenging climb, a historical journey, or a peaceful walk in the woods, New Jersey’s trails beckon to all.