New Jersey is known as the Garden State, and there are plenty of amazing parks throughout that reinforce this nickname. New Jersey has several trails that travel through wetlands, coastlines, shady forests, and quaint fields. There are boardwalks, multi-use trails, paved trails, bike trails, and sandy trails to explore with your dog. If you want to get out and see some historical sites and unique nature, these hikes will appeal to you.
Here are 10 dog-friendly trails you can hike in New Jersey this year.
The 10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in New Jersey
1. Manasquan Reservoir
- Located in the sleepy town of Howell Township
- 1-mile trail and 5-mile trail available depending on your activity level
- Large reservoir allows boating, sailing, and fishing
- Beautiful views and well-maintained trails
- Great place to bike with your dog, and it even includes a bicycle repair station to maintain your equipment
2. Holmdel Park
- Over 600 acres of wooded land to explore
- Miles of shady trails to enjoy with your dogs
- Check out the Historic Longstreet Farm and the Holmes-Hendrickson House
- Things to do year-round, including picnicking and sledding
- Located in central New Jersey off of the Garden State Parkway
3. Blueberry Hill Trail
- Multiple miles of trails in Camden County
- Explore the quarry and the old radar station for some truly unique sites
- Trail connection to the United States Avenue Trail
- Things to do during all seasons, including snowshoeing and birding
- Dogs must remain leashed at all times; please pick up after your pet
4. Estell Manor Park
- 1,700 acres of diverse environments
- Multiple trails, including paved, unpaved, and boardwalk
- Explore the wooded areas of New Jersey as well as some wet, swampy areas
- Check out the Warren E. Fox Nature Center
- Located 25 miles from Atlantic City, so make a trip out of it
5. Cattus Island County Park
- Over 500 acres of wetland on a peninsula on Jersey’s coast
- Seven miles of diverse trails to explore that beckon for repeat visits (Trail map)
- Explore beaches, shaded trails, boardwalks, and more, all with your dog
- Plenty to do and explore at the nearby Jersey Shore
- Amenities in nearby Toms River include food and supplies in case you forget anything
6. Cheesequake State Park
- Five trails ranging from 1 to 3.5 miles in length (Trail map)
- Park sits at a convergence of different biomes, including old hardwood forest and pine scrub
- Trails are multi-use and can be accessed year-round
- Hooks Lake Creek is located in the park and offers a small beach to enjoy
- Located 30 miles south of New York City
7. Billie Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve
- Located just minutes from Princeton University
- Views of streams and lakes that are breathtaking in every season
- Multiple trails, including winding trails, wide straight trails, and ones with elevation gain
- The park can get busy during peak times, so keep your dog leashed and pick up after your pet
- Consider visiting Princeton University when you are in the neighborhood
8. Thompson Park
- Park offers over 14 miles of multipurpose trails, including equestrian and canine
- 667 total diverse acres of protected land, including picturesque fields and woodland parks
- Off-leash area allows dogs to explore at their own pace (just watch for others!)
- Check out the gorgeous visitor center and old homes located in the park
- Located near New York City and the Jersey shoreline
9. Monroe Township Bike Path
- 1-mile trail links Glassboro to Williamstown in Gloucester County
- Trail passes near and through parts of the expansive Glassboro Wildlife Management Area
- Trail is paved and multi-use
- Watch out for other dogs and bikers while on the trail
- Trail will eventually link up with a regional trail network that spans over 800 miles
10. Lewis Morris County Park
- Over 2,200 acres of mixed-use land to explore over multiple days
- 22 miles of trails winding through multiple different biomes
- Dog park located on-site allows your dog to get some off-leash time
- Plenty to do, including camping, picnicking, hiking, walking, sledding, and more
- Located 27 miles west of Newark for easy access to the city
Conclusion
Whether you want to see an old radar station, meandering boardwalks, or beachfront parks, there are amazing trails in New Jersey to fit your interests and your lifestyle. There are parks located near the New York City area and in the more rural and remote parts of New Jersey. Most of these hikes can be done in a day and can be reached in a couple of hours from almost anywhere in the Garden State. All you have to do is decide which trail to explore first.
Featured Image Credit: N K, Shutterstock
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