Whether you’re a family of new or advanced bikers, discovering the best bike paths and bike trails in NJ will take you through the Garden State’s most scenic areas. And there are plenty of diverse paths to choose from—whether riding through charming towns, exploring trails with Revolutionary War history, or enjoying paths along the shoreline. Scroll down to find the top biking trails in NJ, and if you need new wheels, we’ve got you covered with our guide on finding a bike shop in New Jersey near you. (featured photo credit: @olliesm)

19 Scenic Bike Paths In New Jersey

Northern Bike Trails in NJ

Boulevard Trolley Line Path
This paved path runs 2.1 miles along the exact route of a former trolley line operated by the Morris County Traction Company. With amazing views of historic homes and sites in Mountain Lakes, riding along the path is a great way to experience history.
Elcock Avenue and Boulevard (Mountain Lakes) and Pocono Road (Mountain Lakes), Mountain Lakes, NJ 07005

Patriot’s Path
If you’re looking for bike trails in Morristown, NJ, this popular area has 55 miles of trails, plus 35 miles of side and riverside trails that branch off and connect to the main ones. There are multiple terrain types, including crushed stone and gravel, narrow rock pathways, and pavement ideal for families and beginner riders. Fun fact—this historical path played a role in the Revolutionary War.
27 Mendham Road, Morris Township 07960

Paulinskill Valley Rail Trail
This trail goes through 25 miles of New Jersey terrain near Newton, NJ, with beautiful scenery, and is a popular spot for bird watching. The shady areas and flat terrain make it all the more fun for kids (though the route is considered moderately challenging).
928 Cedar Ridge Road, Newton, NJ 07860

Saddle River Park Bike Path
This path is about 6 miles long and links five areas in Saddle River Park. If you stop by Dunkerhook Park, you’ll see a beautiful waterfall, and the trail passes by three other ponds. Through this path, you have access to a bunch of amenities, like playgrounds, tennis courts, and athletic fields. 
1133 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07450

West Essex Trail
Situated along the former Caldwell Branch of the Erie-Lackawanna Railroad, this biking trail in NJ is just under 3 miles and offers stunning historical views. The trail is away from neighborhoods and traffic, providing a little peace and alone time for families.
201 Fairview Avenue, Verona, NJ 07044

Central Bike Trails in NJ

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
This park is one of Central Jersey’s most popular recreational areas because it protects wildlife and has charming views. You’ll pass through many historical structures while also getting a great workout.
145 Mapleton Road, Princeton, NJ 08540

Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway
When you spend the day on the Bikeway, you’ll catch glimpses of forest, open fields, and farmland. The Manasquan bike trail spans 3.4 miles before ending at Allaire State Park. Along the Bikeway are golf courses, a General Store, farmland, picturesque scenery, and natural surroundings. 
2038 Hospital Road (Allenwood) and Main Street between Atlantic Avenue and Central Avenue (Manasquan)

Gravel Hill Trail 
The Gravel Hill Trail goes to Hoffman Station and is mainly used for hiking, running, and nature trips. Its location in the forest offers wildlife and plant observation while remaining spacious and safe enough for the whole family to enjoy.
1601 Perrineville Road, Monroe, NJ 08831

Island Beach State Park
Along both sides of the Island Beach State Park road, there’s a bicycle lane with stops at local towns north of the entrance. Although it’s not a bike-only path—walkers, runners, and bladers share it, and it can sometimes get congested—it’s the best way to explore the park (especially when the parking lot is full). 
Route 35 South, Seaside Park, NJ 08752

Lawrence Hopewell Trail
Lawrence Hopewell Trail has trails encouraging walking, biking, running, horseback riding, and nature observation. The flat, paved trail runs from Mount Rose Distillery to Stony Brook Watershed, offering miles of beautiful views and amenities.
197 Blackwell Road, Pennington, NJ 08534

Middlesex Greenway
Pedal through Metuchen, Woodbridge, and Edison on the Middlesex Greenway. This 3.5-mile, 10-foot-wide paved path is the perfect spot for beginner bikers. This scenic space is secluded, far from cars, and close to local schools, parks, and neighborhoods, which makes it suitable for little ones just learning.
691-707 Middlesex Avenue, Metuchen and William E. Street (Fords)

Sandy Hook Bike Path
Also known as the Multi-Use Pathway, this 8.5-mile Sandy Hook bike path runs along the Sandy Hook Peninsula. It features many viewing points, such as a bird observatory and a wildlife observation deck. When you need a biking break, you can stop at some beaches or visit the historic Fort Hancock.
Atlantic Drive and Ford Road (Sandy Hook) and 798 Ocean Ave N. (Sea Bright)

Sawmill Bike Path
This trail is short at just 1.1 miles, but it features Sawmill Creek and is appropriate for riders of any age. The whole family will enjoy the greenery and simplicity of the area.
918 Burnt Tavern Road, Brick, NJ 08724

Trolley Line Trail
Given its amenities and length, this trail provides an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy a bike ride together. The 2.5-mile trail runs along West Windsor Community Park, where you can find soccer fields, dog parks, swimming pools, and restrooms. The trail also passes behind residential neighborhoods and the former Fast Line electric trolley route (hence the name).
Rabbit Hill Road to Penn-Lyle Road, West Windsor, NJ 08550

Southern Bike Trails in NJ

Belleplain State Forest
Belleplain’s Single Track mountain bike trail is designed for all skill levels and ages, with three routes to choose from. Routes 2 and 3 are the longest and most technical trails at 7 and 10.5 miles, while Route 1 is ideal for beginner riders at 4 miles. Belleplain’s Track is ideal for sightseeing, bird watching, and enjoying nature on your bicycle.
1 Henkinsifkin Road, Woodbine, NJ 08270

Bike Path Through the Wildwoods
Grab your bicycles and ride along the iconic Wildwood Island, a beautiful and scenic Jersey Shore bike trail. This 5-mile bike path in NJ takes you along the beach, where bikers can enjoy a bike-only area along the boardwalk.
Travels through the entire island of the Wildwoods, NJ 08260

Cooper River Trail
This bike path is paved and perfect for families with beginners, as it is a simple loop. As you ride, stop at one of the recreational spots, like the playground, golf course, or ball fields, where you can admire the stunning views and the kids can take a break.
Pine Street and Haddon Avenue, (Camden) and Wallworth Park, Park Boulevard and Caldwell Road (Cherry Hill)

Merchantville Bike Path
Running straight through Merchantville, this smooth bike path is a great way to enjoy a leisurely ride with the whole family. This tree-lined bike path is 1.05 miles long, perfect for all skill levels, and has plenty of shady spots.
Euclid Avenue and Cove Road, Merchantville, NJ 08109

Ocean City Bike Trails
Take a leisurely, family-friendly bike ride through Ocean City on the OC1, pedaling along the 2.2-mile Bridge Route, or try the more advanced West Avenue Route. If you are looking for a more scenic adventure, ride on Ocean City’s famous 2 1/2 mile boardwalk year-round (there are summer hours to accommodate the beach crowds). 
Several routes in Ocean City

Want the inside scoop? Sign up for the NJMOM bi-weekly newsletter to get the lowdown on everything for your family in NJ (think of it as the ultimate cheat sheet for NJ Moms). And don’t forget to tag your photos #NJMOM and @njmom for a chance to be featured.