The best hiking trails in NJ include Mount Tammany’s Red Dot Trail in the Delaware Water Gap, the Stairway to Heaven on the Appalachian Trail in Vernon, the Monument Trail at High Point State Park, the Giant Stairs along the Palisades and the Batona Trail through the Pine Barrens. North Jersey has the steepest climbs and best views, while South Jersey offers flat, sandy trails through pine forest. The Appalachian Trail itself runs about 72 miles through northwestern New Jersey.
Key Takeaways
- Most famous climb: Mount Tammany in the Delaware Water Gap, with views over the Delaware River.
- Highest point in NJ: High Point State Park, at 1,803 feet above sea level.
- Appalachian Trail: about 72 miles cross New Jersey, including the Stairway to Heaven and Sunfish Pond.
- Pine Barrens: the Batona Trail runs roughly 50 miles through Wharton and other state forests.
- Near New York City: the Palisades, Ramapo Valley County Reservation and South Mountain Reservation.
- Safety: watch for ticks and black bears, carry water and start early on popular weekends.
Trail information was reviewed in September 2026. Trail conditions, closures and parking rules change, so check the managing park’s website before you go.
Top Hiking Trails in NJ at a Glance
| Trail | Location | Difficulty | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Tammany (Red Dot and Blue Dot loop) | Delaware Water Gap, Warren County | Strenuous | Rocky climb to river-gap views |
| Sunfish Pond via the Appalachian Trail | Worthington State Forest | Moderate to strenuous | A glacial lake on the Kittatinny Ridge |
| Stairway to Heaven | Vernon, Sussex County | Strenuous | Steep climb to Pinwheel’s Vista |
| Monument Trail | High Point State Park | Moderate | Views from the state’s highest area |
| Giant Stairs | Palisades Interstate Park | Strenuous (rock scramble) | Boulder field along the Hudson River |
| Batona Trail | Pine Barrens, Burlington County | Easy terrain, long distance | Pine forest, cedar streams and fire towers |
| Hemlock Falls | South Mountain Reservation, Essex County | Easy to moderate | A waterfall close to the suburbs |
| Buttermilk Falls | Walpack, Delaware Water Gap | Easy to the falls; strenuous above | One of New Jersey’s tallest waterfalls |
Best Hiking Trails in NJ: North Jersey
Mount Tammany, Delaware Water Gap
Mount Tammany is New Jersey’s signature hike. The Red Dot Trail climbs steeply over rocks to overlooks above the Delaware Water Gap, and many hikers return on the Blue Dot Trail to make a loop of roughly 3.5 miles. The summit sits at about 1,527 feet. Because the trail is steep and rocky, wear sturdy shoes and allow extra time, especially on the descent.
Sunfish Pond
From the Delaware Water Gap area, the Appalachian Trail climbs to Sunfish Pond, a glacial lake on the Kittatinny Ridge in Worthington State Forest. It is a longer day hike with a steady climb, and the pond is a peaceful spot for lunch.
Stairway to Heaven, Vernon
This section of the Appalachian Trail crosses farm fields and a boardwalk before climbing steeply up Wawayanda Mountain to Pinwheel’s Vista. On clear days, the view stretches over the Vernon Valley. It is one of the most popular hikes in Sussex County, so arrive early on weekends.
High Point State Park
High Point State Park holds New Jersey’s highest elevation, 1,803 feet, marked by a tall monument. Trails such as the Monument Trail loop through forest and past views of New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. In fall, the park is a favorite for foliage.
The Palisades and Giant Stairs
Along the Hudson River, Palisades Interstate Park offers cliff-top trails and a rugged shoreline route. The Giant Stairs section requires scrambling over a large boulder field, so it suits experienced hikers. The views of the river and cliffs are dramatic, and the park is close to New York City.
Ramapo Valley County Reservation
In Mahwah, Bergen County, this reservation offers river walks, a pond and climbs to viewpoints over the Ramapo Mountains. Its trail network works for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
Best Hiking Trails in NJ: Central and South Jersey
Batona Trail, Pine Barrens
The Batona Trail runs roughly 50 miles through the Pine Barrens, including Wharton State Forest and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest. The sandy, mostly flat trail passes cedar swamps, streams and Apple Pie Hill fire tower, which offers wide views over the pines. Hikers can do short sections or plan multi-day trips.
South Mountain Reservation
This Essex County reservation near Millburn and West Orange has miles of wooded trails, including a popular route to Hemlock Falls. Its location makes it one of the best hiking trails in NJ for a quick outing from Newark and nearby towns.
Watchung Reservation
In Union County, the Watchung Reservation offers trails through woods and along a lake, plus the historic Deserted Village of Feltville. It is an easy, family-friendly choice.
Hiking Trails in NJ by Difficulty
| Level | Good choices |
|---|---|
| Easy | Watchung Reservation, sections of the Batona Trail, Hemlock Falls |
| Moderate | High Point State Park, Ramapo Valley County Reservation, Sunfish Pond |
| Strenuous | Mount Tammany, Stairway to Heaven, Giant Stairs |
Best Seasons for Hiking in New Jersey
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring | Waterfalls run strong and wildflowers bloom; trails can be muddy |
| Summer | Shade matters; start early to avoid heat and crowds |
| Fall | Peak foliage and cool temperatures make this the most popular season |
| Winter | Quiet trails and clear views; ice can make rocky climbs dangerous |
Safety Tips for Hiking in NJ
- Check for ticks after every hike. Ticks are common in New Jersey woods and fields.
- Know about black bears. New Jersey has a black bear population, especially in the northwest. Keep food secured and never approach a bear.
- Carry water and snacks, even on short hikes.
- Wear sturdy footwear for rocky trails such as Mount Tammany.
- Start early. Parking lots at popular trailheads fill quickly on weekends.
- Tell someone your plans and carry a map, since cell service can be spotty.
- Leave no trace. Pack out trash and stay on marked trails.
What to Pack for Hiking Trails in NJ
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Sturdy hiking shoes | Rocky ridges such as Mount Tammany are hard on ankles |
| Water and snacks | Many trailheads have no water or food |
| Trail map or offline map app | Cell service can drop in the Water Gap and Pine Barrens |
| Insect repellent and long socks | Help protect against ticks and mosquitoes |
| Layers and a rain jacket | Ridge weather can change quickly |
| Headlamp | Useful if a hike runs later than planned |
In addition, check whether your chosen park charges parking or entrance fees in season, and whether dogs are allowed on the trail. Some popular parking areas fill before mid-morning on fall weekends, so have a backup trail in mind.
Whichever trail you choose, respect closures and seasonal restrictions posted by park staff. Trails can close after storms, during maintenance or to protect wildlife, and staying on marked paths helps prevent erosion on busy routes such as Mount Tammany.
More NJ Outdoor Guides
Plan a colorful fall hike with our NJ fall foliage guide, and find more day trips in our list of things to do in NJ. Pair a hike with a farm stop using our apple picking in NJ guide. Browse more in our Things To Do section or on the homepage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails in NJ
What is the most popular hike in NJ?
Mount Tammany in the Delaware Water Gap is New Jersey’s best-known hike, with a steep climb to views over the Delaware River.
What is the highest point in New Jersey?
High Point State Park holds the state’s highest elevation, 1,803 feet above sea level.
How long is the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey?
About 72 miles of the Appalachian Trail run through northwestern New Jersey.
Where can I hike in the Pine Barrens?
The Batona Trail runs roughly 50 miles through Pine Barrens state forests, including Wharton State Forest.
What is the Stairway to Heaven hike?
It is a section of the Appalachian Trail in Vernon that climbs steeply to Pinwheel’s Vista on Wawayanda Mountain.
Are there bears on NJ hiking trails?
Yes. New Jersey has black bears, especially in the northwest. Keep food secured and never approach a bear.
What is the best easy hike in New Jersey?
The Watchung Reservation, Hemlock Falls in South Mountain Reservation and sections of the Batona Trail are good easy options.
When is the best time to hike in NJ?
Fall is the most popular season for cool weather and foliage, while spring brings strong waterfalls and wildflowers.
Is Mount Tammany hard?
Yes. The Red Dot Trail is steep and rocky, so wear sturdy shoes and allow extra time for the descent.
Where can I hike near New York City in NJ?
The Palisades, Ramapo Valley County Reservation and South Mountain Reservation are close to the city.
The Bottom Line
The best hiking trails in NJ range from steep climbs like Mount Tammany and the Stairway to Heaven to the flat, sandy Batona Trail in the Pine Barrens. North Jersey delivers mountain views and waterfalls, while parks near the cities offer quick escapes. Check trail conditions, start early and pack for ticks and changing weather to enjoy New Jersey’s trails in every season.