Explore A New Side Of Englishtown With The Monmouth Battlefield Trail, A Special Historic Trail In New Jersey
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Steven Reitz
Author
New Jersey is a place of great historical importance for the development of the United States. But for residents who see monuments every day, that fact can lose some of its luster. So why not try hiking the Monmouth Battlefield Trail in New Jersey and see if that fascination with the nation’s history can be rekindled? If nothing else, you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful nature that New Jersey keeps secret for those willing to travel just ten minutes outside of Englishtown.
The Monmouth Battlefield Trail is considered to be an intermediate difficulty, though many have said it was surprisingly easy for such a designation. It is a little over a mile long, and on average it takes about half an hour to complete the loop. Of course, that time is not considering how often you’ll stop to enjoy your surroundings.
Visitor parking is in front of the Monmouth Battlefield Visitor Center. That’s also where the trail begins and ends, so you’ll have two opportunities to duck inside and read about the historic significance of the land around you. Either way, it would be a shame to walk the ancient battlefield and not see some of the artifacts recovered from it.
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The Battle of Monmouth was a day-long fight between the Continental and the British Armies. Over 600 casualties were shared by both sides, but in the end, General Washington was successful in fending off the British attack. Now you can explore the restored battlegrounds and learn about them at the same time.
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For those looking to learn more about the Battle of Monmouth, there are self-guided hiking tours available in the visitor center. Otherwise, you can keep an eye out for wayside exhibits located around the battlefield. That way you can read about the land and walk it at the same time!
Back in 1778, several families tilled the land that would become a battlefield. Now in modern times, and with modern equipment, one man raises grain on those same acres. The presence of living crops really helps hikers imagine what the soldiers of the competing armies were seeing when they met to do battle all those centuries ago.
Really, the history of the surrounding area is the cherry on top of your visit to the Monmouth Battlefield Trail. The land is well kept with hikers, produce, and wildlife in mind. That’s right, you have an excellent chance to spot small mammals running among the foliage, or grassland birds flitting among the trees.
The Battle of Monmouth took place on the sweltering summer day of June 28, 1778. If you’re a lover of history who is looking to relive that date as best as you can, visit during a particularly hot summer day. If you’d prefer to hike in cooler temperatures, the trail is open year-round. And dogs are welcome, so don’t leave Spot at home!
Have you hiked the Monmouth Battlefield Trail before? Were you there for the history of the location, the natural beauty, or both? Let us know in the comments!
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