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 you’ll find every kind of bike path you want—from riding through picturesque towns to trails that are part of Revolutionary War history to bike paths that follow 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)
Here are 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 historical homes and places in Mountain Lakes, this biking path is a great way to experience history.
Crane Road to Fanny Road
Mountain Lakes
Patriot’s Path
If you’re looking for bike trails in Morristown, NJ, this popular area has 55 miles of them as well as 35 miles of side trails and riverside trails that veer off, connecting them 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.
270 Mendham Road
Morris Township
A scenic stop with a beautiful view. Photo Credit: @dontsithome
Paulinskill Valley Trail
This trail goes through 25 miles of New Jersey terrain, passing through Sussex and allowing for plenty of nature stops along the way. This is a popular spot for bird watching, and its shady areas and flat terrain make it all the more fun for kids.
280 Warbasse Junction Road
Lafayette
Saddle River Park Bike Path
This path links five areas in Saddle River Park and is about 6 miles long. If you stop by Dunkerhook Park, you’ll see a beautiful waterfall, and the trail passes by three other ponds. Plenty of amenities like playgrounds, tennis courts, and athletic fields can be accessed through this path.
1133 East Ridgewood Avenue
Ridgewood
West Essex Trail
Situated along the former Caldwell Branch of the Erie-Lackawanna Railroad, this biking trail in NJ is a perfect place for the little ones in your family, as it’s just under 3 miles, with stunning historical views. The bike trail is away from neighborhoods and traffic and provides a little peace and alone time with the family.
201 Fairview Avenue
Verona
Central Bike Trails in NJ
Get lost in the scenery that you’ll find on the Edgar Felix Bikeway Trail. Photo taken on the Edgar Felix Bikeway Trail in Wall.
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
Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway
Enjoy the forest views, open fields, and farmland when you spend the day on the Bikeway. The Manasquan bike trail spans 5.2 miles before ending at Allaire State Park. Along the Bikeway are golf courses, a General Store, farmland, amazing views, and more. Spend some time at the State Park before heading back on the trail.
Main Street between Atlantic Ave and Central Ave
Manasquan
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, allowing miles of beautiful views and amenities.
197 Blackwell Road
Pennington
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 is close to local schools, parks, and neighborhoods, which makes it good for littles just learning.
Middlesex Avenue, Metuchen and Dudash Park
Edison
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 leads to wildlife and plant observation while still being spacious and safe enough for the whole family to enjoy.
1601 Perrineville Road
Monroe
Sandy Hook Bike Path
Also known as the Multi-Use Pathway, this Sandy Hook bike path runs along the Sandy Hook Peninsula and is 8.5 miles long. Many viewing points are along the route, like a bird observatory and a wildlife observation deck. While riding along the path, stop off at some beaches or visit the historic Fort Hancock before heading back to enjoy a day at the beach.
Fort Hancock to Park Entrance Fee Plaza
Sandy Hook
Trolley Line Trail
This trail provides an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy a bike ride together, given its amenities and length. 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.
Rabbit Hill Road to Penn-Lyle Road
West Windsor
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 sometimes can get congested—it’s the best way to explore the park (especially when the parking lot is full).
Route 35 South
Seaside Park
Sawmill Bike Path
This trail is short at just 1.1 miles, but it features a beautiful lake and is appropriate for riders of any age. The whole family will enjoy the greenery and simplicity, where you can also fish and hike.
918 Burnt Tavern Road
Brick
Southern Bike Trails in NJ
Take a scenic ride through Ocean City. Photo Credit: istock/Vladone
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 the first route is ideal for beginner riders at 4 miles. Belleplain’s Track is perfect for sightseeing, bird watching, and enjoying nature on your bicycle.
1 Henkinsifkin Road
Woodbine
Cooper River Park
This bike path is paved and perfect for families with beginners, as the trail is a simple loop. As you ride, there are many recreational spots to stop at, like the playground, golf course, and ball fields, where you can take in the stunning views and the kids can take a break.
S. Crescent Blvd to Vesper Avenue
Camden
Merchantville Bike Path
Running straight through Merchantville, this smooth bike path is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy a leisurely ride with the whole family. This tree-lined bike path is .75 miles long, perfect for all skill levels, and has plenty of shady spots when you need a break.
Euclid Avenue to South Center Street
Merchantville
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.
East Cresse Ave to East Rambler Road
Wildwood Crest
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).
Ocean City
What are your family’s favorite bike trails in NJ? Let us know!
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