New Jersey is a beautiful state; some of the prettiest parts are best seen on foot. Immerse yourself in nature and hike our picturesque parks. There are trails all over the state suited for various difficultly levels. Whether you’re looking for a short walk on easy terrain or a harder hike that goes on for miles, our list of the most beautiful places to hike in New Jersey will surely inspire you on your next adventure:

1. Washington Crossing State Park, Hopewell Township
Flickr/Art G.
Follow in the footsteps of our forefathers while hiking along the same route Washington took to cross the Delaware. This park provides over seven miles of hiking on moderate terrain, though the Red, Green, Blue and Yellow Dot trails are all under three miles. The Red Loop trail around the nature center comes in at just over a mile and offers some of the easiest terrain. This New Jersey park will totally knock your socks off!
2. Cattus Island Park, Toms River
Flickr/Jim Lukach
Walk along the beach among birds nests and keep an eye out for Osprey. This scenic hike hike offers easy terrain and several short trails to choose from.
3. Franklin Parker Preserve, Woodland Township
New Jersey Conservation Foundation/Facebook
Hike around cranberry bogs in the pine barrens on the variety of trails at this gorgeous New Jersey preserve.
4. Apshawa Preserve, West Milford
Flickr/syvwlch
The hike at Apshawa Preserve has it all, from waterfalls to scenic city views. Choose between several trails, all with moderate terrain. Since there are some steep sections, you may want to choose a shorter hike. This will not be a problem as many trails are under a mile long.
5. Black River County Park, Chester
Flickr/Steven Reynolds
Black River County Park features four main trails with moderate terrain. Hike through pine forests and be sure to stop at the historic gristmill.
6. Cheesequake State Park, Matawan
Joyce A/Flickr
Offering easy hikes along the boardwalk, most trails are 3-4 miles long. Camping is allowed and swimming areas are available at Cheesequake State Park.

Related Stories

The Magnificent Overlook In New Jersey That’s Worthy Of A Little Adventure

The Magnificent Overlook In New Jersey That’s Worthy Of A Little Adventure

 The Merrill Creek Reservoir Perimeter Trail Will Show You A Completely New Side Of New Jersey

The Merrill Creek Reservoir Perimeter Trail Will Show You A Completely New Side Of New Jersey

 Walk Across A Pretty Swinging Bridge On This Loop Trail In New Jersey

Walk Across A Pretty Swinging Bridge On This Loop Trail In New Jersey
7. High Point State Park, Sussex
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
This monument marks the highest point in New Jersey and the entire park offers spectacular views of the state along with Pennsylvania and New York. Clear days allow hikers to look out for miles, taking in all the surrounding beauty. Trails range from under a mile to over four, all with mild to moderate terrain.
8. Parvin State Park, Pittsgrove
Flickr/Doug Kerr
A great spot for a family weekend, Parvin State Park, this park offers swimming, fishing, camping, boating and of course, hiking. There are several easy trails ranging from 1-5 miles in length.
9. Pyramid Mountain Park, Kinnelon
Flickr/Jerseygal2009
Flickr/Steven Reynolds
This park possesses a unique name along with some strange rock formations. There is a significant amount of lore surrounding the park including several supernatural stories. There are many mild and moderate trails to choose from, just don't hike alone.
10. Ramapo Mountain State Forest, Ringwood
Garden State Hiker/Flickr
With 10 miles of trails, there are many hikes to choose from. Enjoy lake and forest views along with the ruins of the Van Slyke Castle.
11. Wharton State Forest, Hammonton
Flickr/Carly Schwartz
This Wharton State Forest offers nearly 50 miles of trails with some loops as short as a mile. The trails are flat and the park is free, though there is a small fee to enter Batsto Village, located within the park. The historic village highlights the art of blacksmithing with regular demonstrations.

From waterside strolls to high mountain hikes, New Jersey’s natural beauty cannot be denied. And these beautiful places to hike in New Jersey are perhaps the best way to enjoy the full splendor of The Garden State.

Where are your favorite places to hike in New Jersey? What trails would you recommend? Share your picks with us in the comments below!

And for one of the most beautiful treks in The Garden State, be sure to check out the waterfall staircase hike at Buttermilk Falls!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Beautiful Places To Hike In New Jersey

Sarah | April 02, 2021

Does New Jersey have many waterfalls?

Yes! Those exploring New Jersey will be absolutely delighted to discover that the Garden State is filled with beautiful waterfalls. Some of the best waterfalls in New Jersey include Ramapo Falls, Great Falls, Hemlock Falls, and Hacklebarney Falls. Of course, Buttermilk Falls is a favorite; the tallest waterfall in New Jersey, it also features a waterfall staircase hike that's perfect for those looking for a little adventure with their scenery. Curious to explore all of these magnificent landmarks? Then check out our waterfall road trip through New Jersey.

What are some of the most beautiful places in New Jersey?

New Jersey is a stunner of a state, full of natural beauty everywhere you turn. Whether you’re roaming the coast or exploring the forests, there are plenty of beautiful wonders in New Jersey that will take your breath away. Pinelands National Reserve, the country's first National Reserve, is a diverse mix of historic villages, berry farms, oak-pine forests (pine barrens), extensive wetlands, and diverse species of plants and animals. This massive reserve encompasses land in seven South Jersey counties, and is absolutely resplendent. If you're looking for a picture-perfect picnic spot, the Great Falls in Paterson is sure to impress; it offers a footbridge for up-close viewing of the magnificent falls (and if you visit after a rain storm, the falls are extra amazing!). Finally, the highest point in New Jersey, High Point is part of the Kittatinny Mountain Range, and offers some of the most spectacular views in the state.

What are the most beautiful hike in New Jersey?

If you’re a fan of exploring the great outdoors, New Jersey won’t disappoint with its countless hiking trails -- many of which are short and sweet! However, if you’re looking for the most beautiful trail in New Jersey, you'll definitely want to check out South Mountain Reservation for the easy, rewarding hike to Hemlock Falls. This nature reserve is filled with beautiful scenery and waterfalls to boot. Enjoy your day under the cool, lush canopy of some of New Jersey’s prettiest countryside on this six mile trail.

Related Articles

Explore New Jersey

Featured Addresses
Washington Crossing State Park, 355 Washington Crossing Pennington Rd, Titusville, NJ 08560, USA
Cattus Island Road, Cattus Island Rd, Toms River, NJ 08753, USA
Franklin Parker Preserve — Chatsworth Lake Entrance, 1450 County Rd 532, Chatsworth, NJ 08019, USA
Apshawa Preserve, 4 Northwood Dr, West Milford, NJ 07480, USA
Black River Park, North Rd, Chester, NJ 07930, USA
Cheesequake State Park, 300 Gordon Rd, Matawan, NJ 07747, USA
High Point State Park, 1480 NJ-23, Sussex, NJ 07461, USA
Parvin State Park, 701 Almond Rd, Pittsgrove, NJ 08318, USA
Pyramid Mountain, Montville, NJ 07005, USA
Ramapo Mountain State Forest, Wanaque, NJ 07465, USA
Wharton State Forest Rd, Hammonton, NJ, USA