Enjoy National Trails Day At Barnegat Branch Trail

WARETOWN, NJ — National Trails Day is June 4, and there's no better way to celebrate than by spending the day at one of Ocean County's many parks. The Ocean County Board of Commissioners is using the day to highlight the many uses of the Waretown section of Ocean County's Barnegat Branch Trail.

“This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Barnegat Branch Trail which runs from Barnegat Township to Toms River Township,” said Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, Chairwoman of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. “This linear park which will stretch more than 15 miles once it’s completed is an environmental jewel in the Ocean County parks’ system.”

On June 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the public is invited to participate in activities that stretch along the trail from Country Lane to Railroad Avenue.

“Those attending can try out the exercise equipment, they can view the interpretive display at the Country Lane Trailhead, participate in nature walks and just enjoy all that the outdoors has to offer along the trail,” Haines said.

Information tables from Ocean County of Parks and Recreation, and Heritage and Planning. The free event also features a bicycle rodeo hosted by the Ocean County Security Department to emphasize bike safety.

There will also be an arts and crafts table as well as a table featuring the trail's natural resources.

“The Barnegat Branch Trail is very popular with the residents and visitors of Ocean County not only by giving residents a route to travel by bike or walking, but also allowing access to many of our County Parks along the way,” said Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners John P. Kelly. “I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the nice weather and see the trail for themselves during the National Trails Day event.”

The Barnegat Branch trail follows the existing right of way of the former Barnegat Branch Division of the Central Railroad of New Jersey.

So far, Ocean County has completed seven phases of the trail, which includes over 7.8 contiguous miles from Burr Street in Barnegat Township to Musket Road in Lacey Township. In addition, almost 3.25 miles from South Street in Lacey Township to Hickory Lane in Berkeley Township have been completed.