If you’ve ever wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail—the legendary 2,200-mile trail stretching from Georgia to Maine—living in New Jersey gives you an advantage, thanks to the 72 miles that pass right through our state. Hiking the entire New Jersey section is an adventure in itself, but you don’t need to be an experienced backpacker to enjoy the trail. New Jersey has family-friendly spots where you can hop on the iconic trail for a short hike, scenic walk, or day outdoors (and serious bragging rights afterward). Keep reading for the five entry spots you need to check out with your family. (featured photo credit: istock/Bkamprath)
Where To Hike The Appalachian Trail In NJ
Delaware Water Gap
You can find the Appalachian Trail on the NJ side through two access points with beginner-to-moderate trails. Start at Blue Mountain Lakes Road for a 1.5-mile section of the Appalachian Trail, or head to the Appalachian Trail parking area on Millbrook-Blairstown Road for scenic waterfalls and historic sites such as the Minisink Archaeological Site and Millbrook Village.
Old Mine Road, Hardwick, NJ 07832
High Point State Park
Known by locals as one of NJ’s best hiking areas, the eponymous High Point State Park is New Jersey’s highest point and a great place to see seriously stunning views. While 18 miles of the Appalachian Trail runs through it, most of it’s a rugged, steep climb rated moderate to hard. But don’t let that stop you from visiting the Park and finding other spots to hike, like the Cedar Swamp Trail, an easy 2.5-mile loop.
1480 NJ-23, Sussex, NJ 07461
Pochuck Boardwalk & Suspension Bridge
This is probably one of the most family-friendly ways to experience the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey. The mostly flat boardwalk crosses wetlands and includes the famous suspension bridge. This 2-mile hike is easy for the whole family.
Appalachian Trail, Glenwood, NJ 07418
Stokes State Forest
Stokes State Forest has some of the best fall foliage in NJ, and hiking a portion of the Maine-to-Georgia Appalachian Trail within it should be high on your list. The trail runs 12 miles through Stokes, and one of the easiest ways to avoid an uphill climb is to drive up Sunrise Mountain Road and park near the overlook. You can join the Appalachian Trail near the parking lot and start your hike along the ridge, taking in the views.
1 Coursen Road, Branchville, NJ 07826
Wawayanda State Park
Wawayanda has 19 miles of Appalachian Trail, and the most scenic is the Stairway to Heaven, a 2.8-mile trail that is steep at times for those who want a bigger hiking challenge. When you reach the Pinwheel Vista Viewpoint, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful mountain views.
885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, NJ 07421
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