Hiking and Running Trails in North Jersey
Hiking and Running Trails in North Jersey
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Where can I go hiking or running on trails in northern New Jersey?
Northern New Jersey is a home to a collection of trails that are great for hiking and running. They are often wooded, and offer scenic views of trees and fall foliage. There are some small mountains in the area, and you'll get a little bit of elevation change, but you won't have to do with crazy inclines.
Take a look at these three options - South Mountain Reservation, Watchung Reservation, and the Palisades Interstate Park. They're just a sampling of what northern New Jersey has to offer.
Trail running is not just a great form of exercise, but it's also a great way to clear your mind. Research shows that green exercise in natural settings, like these parks and hiking trails, is especially good for your mood and self esteem. Running on trails will also help you become a much stronger and more resilient runner. Even if you don't intend to become a full time trail runner, it pays to spend a little time running on trails.
Check out this guide to trail running if you need help getting started. It'll tell you everything you need to know to get started.
South Mountain Reservation
Essex County, New Jersey
Turtle Back Rock
Scenic Destination
In the northern part of the reservation, you can see Turtle Back Rock. The Rock has distinct markings on it that look like a turtle shell. It's a short 1 mile hike from one of the parking and picnic areas.
Valley View Drive
A tree lined running route
Valley View Drive is a paved road, but it's closed to cars. It's a great route to run, especially in the fall with the leaves changing colors.
In the Woods
Trees and Rocks Galore
Explore the hiking trails in the reservation, and you'll find plenty of downed trees, large rocks, and other interesting things like this one.
Wildlife
Birds, Deer, and Fox
It isn't just trees. The woods are "alive". You might run across a woodpecker like this one, and you're likely to see deer and other wildlife.
Watchung Reservation
Union County, NJ
Fall Colors
The trees are beautiful in the fall, and it's a great time to hike through the wooded trails of the Watchung Reservation.
The Loop
In the center of the reservation, there's an open area called "The Loop." There's a playground and picnic area. It's not all deep woods.
History Trail
The history trail is one of the longer ones in the park, at six miles. It takes you on a tour of some historical sites in the area.
Lake Surprise
Lake Surprise is one of the water features in the park. It's open for fishing and boating, and it's beautiful to look at.
Palisades Interstate Park
Hudson County, NJ
A Small Waterfall
Water comes down from the high cliffs to the ground, and you'll see a couple waterfalls like this along the way. Neat!
Babbling Brook
Hiking through the Palisades, you'll come across small streams and babbling brooks like this one, tucked away in the foliage.
View from the Bottom
The cliffs are impressive when you look up at them. Most of the hike is pretty tame, but it's strenuous when you go up and down those cliffs.
View from the Top
You can see across the river to New York City, and you can also look down on the picnic area in the park. It's a great place for a cookout.
Pick a Trail and Head Out
These are just a few of the great hiking trails and parks that are scattered across New Jersey. South Mountain Reservation and Watchung Reservation offer a plethora of trails through the woods, while the Palisades Interstate Park offers a long, easy hike along the Hudson River with views of New York.
Whether you're running or hiking, get out there and enjoy nature.
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