One of the best parts about hiking is getting to encounter something new — whether it be a beach, a waterfall, or a ruin you’ve never seen before. That’s why we love hiking in Wharton State Forest in New Jersey. The area is littered with abandoned towns and ruins, and there are so many cool and interesting hikes that bring you past these sights. One in particular we enjoy is Harrisville Pond.

Harrisville Pond is a gorgeous, easy trail in Wharton State Forest that brings you to so many cool features.
George Chorny/AllTrails
It's a loop trail that gets moderate traffic so you can get some peace and quiet without feeling entirely alone.
The trail, which is about 4.1 miles long, takes you past a pretty, winding river.
George Chorny/AllTrals
Keep an eye out for interesting plants and wildlife here!
Naturally, you also get to explore Harrisville Pond. Keep an eye out for the waterfall!
Eric Camm/AllTrails
OK, it's a small one, but it still counts! We love a waterfall regardless of size.

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One of the most interesting parts of the trail comes when you reach the ruins of an abandoned stone structure.
Annamarie Robertelli/AllTrails
There are several ruins like this in Wharton State Forest.
It's so interesting to see old ruins being overtaken by the forest — it feels like sidestepping in time!
Michelle Vanelli/AllTrails
As always, exercise caution around ruins or crumbling structures.
This is a great hike for people of all ages – it's easy, it's pretty, and you still get a workout in.
Dave Hartmann/AllTrails
We recommend it for any time of the year, although it's best April through October.

Oh, and if you want to bring a canine companion, feel free! They’ll love the trail, too. Just make sure you keep them on a leash.

What other trails do you love in Wharton State Forest?

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Wharton State Forest, Waterford, NJ 08089, USA