NJ Bike Trails It’s simple to understand why New Jersey is referred to as the Garden State when traveling off the interstate and into the state’s backroads. And that’s just one of the many reasons why residents and tourists alike swarm to the state’s 54 rail trails to enjoy the magnificent scenery and clean air. Here are some of the state’s top rail trails.
New Jersey Trails
The trail at the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
The 72-mile Delaware and Raritan State Park Trail, the longest finished multi-use trail in the state, follows the towpath of the canal, which was constructed in the early 1830s as a transportation route between Philadelphia and New York. Today, it is an essential component of the 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway that runs from Maine to Florida, as well as the 800-mile Circuit Trails network. Expect to witness 19th-century bridges, ruins of locks, cobblestone spillways, and at least one derelict train car along the trail (marked by graffiti). Along the Path, you can find communities with trailside cafés and picnic tables. Visitors may discover some of New Jersey’s top attractions along the Henry Hudson Trail. Numerous route users cycle or stroll through forests, past lovely meadows, and Sandy Hook Bay every year. The 22-mile trail is beautiful all year round, but in the fall, when the surrounding forest canopy bursts with autumnal hues, it truly shines.
The trail along Cooper River
The paved Cooper River Trail, a 4-mile loop that circles its namesake park and extends into a nearby residential area, provides Camden County residents with a relaxing, kid-friendly getaway. The park is abundant with butterflies and birds, including bald eagles, raptors, and, in the spring and summer, egrets and herons. It is covered with mature trees and has both wetland and grassland parts. Additionally, the Camden Greenway (which will eventually allow access to Philadelphia) and the 800-mile Circuit Trails network are connected to the Cooper River Trail.
Recreational Traction Line Trail
The Traction Line Recreation Trail is a rail-with-trail that keeps you moving, whether you’re on a New Jersey Transit commuter train or participating in an activity that requires human effort. In the early 20th century, the railway was initially built so that trolleys could transport passengers between Newark and Dover. From the Morristown National Historical Park in Madison to Drew University, the trail part is 3 miles long. Try out one of the 10 exercise stations along the Path to raise your heart rate a little bit, or, if you’re a nature enthusiast, look for any of the numerous animals that are present just off the track.
Bike Path from Pleasantville to Somers Point
The Pleasantville to Somers Point Bike Path connects those two cities with Northfield and Linwood, forming a vital and well-liked transportation corridor. It was constructed on the site of the former Atlantic City and Shore Railroad line. Users of the 8-mile rail trail are never far from a restroom or a place to eat because it runs through city centers and parks with a few forested areas to offer shade and scenery. The Route 52 Bridge Trail, which connects to neighboring Cape May County, is accessible to visitors.
Washington Trail
The Columbia Trail, one of the most well-liked routes in the state, travels 15 miles through some of New Jersey’s finest natural scenery. The Columbia Trail dips into the steep-sided gorge, gorgeous with moss and rhododendrons tumbling over the rocks, noted Laura Stark of Rails to Trails. Crystalline waterfalls tumble down its slopes after a downpour. It’s possible that you may observe fly fishermen wading into the calm, clear waters of the nearby South Branch of the Raritan River and the beautiful arc of their fishing lines because it is stocked with trout. The crushed-gravel trail goes into the Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area, where trail users can frequently encounter deer, coyotes, and foxes, as well as herons and woodpeckers. The area is surrounded by what appears to be unending birch and aspen trees. Return trips to this trail are rewarded.
NJ Bike Trails Things To Do
Riding a bike in New Jersey Visit one of these stunning sites for a spectacular spring experience. Biking is a great way to take advantage of the weather and the companionship of others in our lovely home state. Warren County Allamuchy Mountain State Park More than 20.0 miles long. Bikers have a variety of trails to select from, many of which have beautiful mountain views. Trail of the Barnegat Bay in Ocean County Size: 11.7 miles All levels of cyclists will benefit from the variety of trail surfaces, which range from asphalt to dirt. Better still? Even a picture-perfect view of the lake is available, and it is encircled by pathways.
Somerset County Bedminster Hike and Bikeway Distance: 2.6 mi More than 40 different species of plants and trees can be found along this paved cycling route; they are designated so that you and the kids can keep track of the plants you see.
Path of the Boulevard Trolley Line
County of Morris
Distance: 2.1 miles
Both history buffs and train enthusiasts will enjoy this journey. It traces the Path of a former trolley line, which was run by the Morris County Traction Company and started operating in July 1904. This walkway is composed of asphalt and concrete, is clear of vehicles, and is a great place to teach novices. On brighter days, keep the trolley line path in mind since the large trees and mountain laurel keep it extra shady for your riding comfort.
County of Union, Briant Park
Length: 1 mi This quiet trail is ideal for children to improve their biking skills.
Coastal ride in Cape May You decide the length of Cape May County
If you’re visiting NJ’s southernmost point, think about completing a portion of the loop’s 46.4-mile length rather than the entire thing. The journey departs from the Cape May Lighthouse and travels by a number of the most recognizable and stunning Victorian mansions in the region. On state.nj.us, a route map is available.
County of Somerset Colonial Park
Distance: 1.4 mi The trail is a level, paved area that makes it simple for your inexperienced riders to master biking.
Columbia Trail County of Hunterdon
Size: 15.0 miles Make sure you check to see which way is best for you and the kids because there are a few alternative paths with a variety of complexity levels.
Cooper River Park County of Camden
5.15 miles long This trail is located within the 346-acre Cooper River Park and spans both the north and south coasts of Cooper River Lake. You can choose which of the two paved circuits is ideal for your party from ones that are either 3.8 miles or 1.8 miles long. Bring some food and snacks for a break from riding because the park also includes locations where you may have a picnic along the trail.
NJ Bike Trails Fun Family-Friendly Bike Rides
Biking is more than just a developmental milestone for kids. It helps with balance development, muscular building, fostering a passion for the outdoors, and family connection. Family-friendly bike lanes can be found all across New Jersey, from the Kittatinny Mountains to the Jersey Shore, which is fortunate for families.
Verona – West Essex Trail
This three-mile track is ideal for beginning riders. The trail meanders across a trestle that spans the Peckman River and used to be part of the historic Erie-Lackawant to Railroad’s Caldwell Branch.
Bergen County’s Saddle River County Park
This cycling trail is around six miles long and passes through six communities in Bergen County. Its straightforward course, also referred to as the Wild Duck Pond (Ridgewood), is incredibly family-friendly.
Morristown, on the Patriots’ Path
Patriots’ Path is a 30-mile route that connects East Hanover and Allamuchy Mountain State Park. It includes equal parts historical exploration and physical activity. For novice trails, including one with pavement close to Speedwell Lake, consult the map.
Trail in Paulinskill Valley, Sussex County
Kittatinny Valley State Park is a favorite among mountain bikers because it has more than eight miles of challenging bike paths. Starting in Sparta, the 27-mile Paulinskill Valley Trail travels through Sussex County’s picturesque landscape.
Fantastic Routes In NJ Bike Trails
1.) Sandy Hook Bike Path, Monmouth County Ride your bicycle 8.7 kilometers along the Sandy Hook peninsula and enjoy the sea breezes and breathtaking vistas of the ocean and maritime trees. Additionally, this paved multi-use trail will take you to historic locations like Fort Hancock and the Sandy Hook Lighthouse.
2.) Ocean City Boardwalk in the county of Cape May
Bike along the long Seaside City boardwalk to enjoy the breathtaking ocean views. Summertime foot traffic makes it common for riding the boards to be limited to the hours of 5 a.m. to noon but always double-check the hours for legal bicycle use.
3.) Monmouth County’s Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway
You’ll pass by everything on this 3.4-mile trail, from upscale neighborhoods to dense woodlands, and it ends at Allaire State Park. You can go trekking on further trails nearby, see the Historic Village at Allaire, a recreation of a 19th-century village, or camp here the night.
4.) Pine Barrens River Ramble in the counties of Atlantic and Burlington The Pine Barrens River Ramble, a 42.6-mile loop that travels through pine and oak forests, alongside blueberry and cranberry bogs, and along three significant rivers, is a great way to discover the splendor of the Pinelands National Reserve. Visit Batstone Village before or after your bike if you want to, as the Path starts from the parking lot there.
5.) Monmouth County’s Union Transportation Trail
This rail trail, a multipurpose track made from an old railroad bed, offers a gravel walk through farmland, forests, and charming rural vistas. While cycling, keep an eye out for pedestrians, joggers, and other cyclists.
6.) Henry Hudson Trail, Monmouth County This 22.5-mile multi-surface route travels through woodland regions, wetlands, farmland, and streams. Choose between the southern or northern sections.
7.) Cape May Shoreline Ride in the county of Cape May
This 46.4-mile loop takes riders through picturesque Cape May, past Victorian houses, barrier island coastal villages, beaches, boardwalks, and wetlands. It starts and ends at the Cape May Lighthouse parking area.
NJ Bike Trails Northern
Path of the Boulevard Trolley Line
This concrete road follows the precise course of a former Morris County Traction Company trolley line for 2.1 miles. This bicycle trail is a fantastic method to learn about history because it offers breathtaking vistas of old houses and locations in Mountain Lakes.
Mountain Lakes between Crane Road to Fanny Road
The Patriot’s Way
There are 55 miles of main bike trails, 35 miles of minor trails, and riverfront paths in Morristown, New Jersey, a well-known location. There are several sorts of terrain, including tarmac that is good for families and beginning riders, crushed stone, gravel, and confined rock trails. Fun fact: The Revolutionary War was influenced by this historic route.
Trail in Paulin skill Valley
This track travels 25 miles across Sussex, New Jersey, and offers numerous opportunities for stops in the natural world. This is a well-liked location for bird viewing, and kids will especially enjoy it due to the flat terrain and shady sections.
Lafayette 280 War Basse Junction Road
Bike Path in Saddle River Park
This six-mile Path runs between five different Saddle River Park locations. You can view a stunning waterfall in Underhook Park, and the trail also passes through three other ponds. Additionally, you may access a lot of amenities via this route, including playgrounds, tennis courts, and athletic fields.
Ridgewood’s 1133 East Ridgewood Avenue
Essex West Trail
This bicycling route in NJ, which is located along the former Caldwell Branch of the Erie-Lackawant to Railroad, is ideal for the young members of your family because it is only slightly more than 3 miles long and offers breathtaking historical views. The bike track offers some peace and quiet time for the family since it is distant from neighborhoods and traffic.
NJ Bike Trails Central
State Park on the Delaware and Raritan Canal This park is one of the most well-liked recreation spots in Central Jersey because it preserves wildlife and offers picturesque views. You’ll get a wonderful workout while also passing by a lot of historical buildings.
Road Mapleton, Princeton, 145
bike path in memory of Edgar Felix When you spend the day on the Bikeway, take in the views of the forests, open fields, and farmland. Before coming to a conclusion at Allaire State Park, the Manasquan bike track extends for 5.2 kilometers. Golf courses, a general store, farmland, breathtaking views, and more can be found along the Bikeway. Before returning to the route, spend some time in the State Park.
Manasquan’s Main Street runs between Atlantic Avenue and Central Avenue.
Trail of Lawrence Hopewell
The Lawrence Hopewell Trail features trails that promote environmental viewing, biking, running, and equestrian riding. From Mount Rose Distillery to Stony Brook Watershed, a level, paved trail offers miles of breathtaking scenery and conveniences.
Blackwell Road, Pennington, 197
Metropolitan Greenway
On the Middlesex Greenway, bicycle your way through Metuchen, Woodbridge, and Edison. The ideal location for novice bikers is this 3.5-mile, 10-foot wide, concrete Path. This picturesque area is close to nearby local schools, parks, and communities despite being totally free of any motor vehicles.
Metuchen Avenue, Middlesex Avenue, and Dudash Park Edison
The trail on Gravel Hill
Hoffman Station is reached through the Gravel Hill Trail, which is primarily utilized for running, trekking, and wildlife excursions. It’s set in a forest and allows for the observation of wildlife and plants while being large and secure enough for the entire family to enjoy.
Monroe, 1601 Perrineville Road
Trails For In South NJ Bike Trails
1.) Wesham Township’s Black Run Preserve
A 1300-acre natural treasure, Black Run Preserve is ideal for biking, hiking, walking your dog, fishing, birdwatching, and so much more. Actually, over 100 bird species have been observed here.
2.) Burlington/Delaware Bordentown’s River Heritage Trail
Highlighting the natural and cultural resources along the beautiful Delaware River estuary is a 60-mile loop. Through on-road trails and sidewalks, the 2.8-mile piece in Burlington County connects bits of Bordentown, Fieldsboro, and Bordentown.
3.) The Hartford Crossing Trails in Medford.
The forest between Hartford Crossing Sports Complex and this natural route network for bicycling and hiking is where you may find it. The Hartford Crossing Trails, which are accessible to everyone, provide a haven for trail cyclists and nature walkers.
4.) Eastampton’s Historic Smithville Park
The centerpiece of the Burlington County Parks System is Historic Smithville Park. This 22-acre lake and 312-acre park offer a variety of habitats and topography. Biking, hiking, fishing, canoeing, and picnics are all available to visitors.
5.) Street, Columbus
One way, the trail is 2.15 kilometers long. Between Mansfield Community Park on East Main Street and Island Road, there is a section of the route. The Mansfield Community Park’s baseball fields are close to the trail’s entrance.
6.) Hainesport’s Rancocas Park
Several miles of marked routes for biking and hiking. Rancocas Creek is accessible by canoe and for fishing. There are additional trails for horses. On Deacon Road or Rancocas Avenue, access the Path.
7.)Gibbsboro’s Blueberry Hill Trail
The Gibbsboro Greenways system, an expanding network of the bike, hiking, and walking trails in Gibbsboro, includes this trail for bicycling and trekking. There are sections of paved, gravel, and dirt on the trail. Although there are additional paths (both official and unofficial) that connect to the route, its official length is only 0.7 miles.
8.) Blackwood’s Camden County College Trails
This four-mile track is ideal for strolling, running, and biking (including dirt biking). The trails are marked with colorful arrows to assist you in staying on a certain path, although it’s simple to join any of the paths.
9.) Cooper River Park in the town of Pennsauken
Cooper River Park spans 346.55 acres and passes through Haddon Township, Cherry Hill, Pennsauken, and Collingswood. Two bike routes, one cross-country course, a dog park, fishing, picnic spaces, and many more amenities are just a few of the highlights.
10.) Kreston Trails in Cherry Hill, number
The Kreston Trails are the ideal location for mountain biking, trail running, hiking, and wildlife observation because they have woodlands, meadows, and streams. You can choose from up to 7 different paths, all varying in length and difficulty, on the more than 3 miles of trails.
Cycling
A 2-mile concrete Path circles Atlantic County Park near Estell Manor, and a 1.8-mile boardwalk meander through incredibly beautiful and marshy woodland parts. In addition, there are numerous routes and old railroad beds in the park where you may run or ride a mountain or hybrid bike. From Harbor Square (previously Shore Mall) in Egg Harbor Township to the Atlantic County Institute of Technology in Mays Landing, Hamilton Township, the Atlantic County Bike Path is a 7.56-mile route. Somers Point to Pleasantville is 6.5 miles away from another well-traveled bike path. 8.9 miles of boardwalk and asphalt may be found between Longport and Gardner’s Basin in Atlantic City.
Public Bike Lanes
A 6.5-mile corridor connects four municipalities in Atlantic County, with each community maintaining its own section of the route. A big, welcoming sign welcomes you to the Somers Point Bike Path as it begins in Somers Point, just a few blocks from the Atlantic Ocean. The trail then travels through Linwood, Northfield, and Pleasantville before turning north. The majority of the trail passes through communities with homes, schools, parks, and athletic fields. It is commonly walked by locals for exercise or for stroller rides with their young children. A few brief wooded areas offer a contrast to the residential communities.
The bike route in Somers Point extends north, parallel to 1st Street, from the municipal building at the corner of West New Jersey Avenue and 1st Street. The area on each side of the bike route that is beyond Maryland Avenue is mostly residential.
Frequently Asked Questions regarding New Jersey’s road biking routes.
Which New Jersey road bike route is the longest?
Cumberland Salem Revolution is New Jersey’s longest road biking trail, according to AllTrails.com. The estimated length of this trail is 84.5 km, and the average hiking time is 18 hours and 37 minutes.
Which New Jersey road bike route gains the most elevation?
New Jersey: Of all the road-riding trails in the region, Cashton Trail has the highest elevation rise at 556 m. With a 301 m elevation climb, Cumberland Salem Revolution has the next-highest ascent for road riding trails.
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