New 22-Mile Interconnected Multi-Use Trail Opens At Lord Stirling Park

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — A new interconnected trail network, totaling 22 miles that branches throughout Lord Stirling Park, was recently unveiled in Somerset County.

The new parking lot, trailhead, and trails off Lord Stirling Road just east of South Maple Avenue in Basking Ridge will connect the Environmental Education Center and the Stable at Lord Stirling Park for the first time.

Additional improvements include a new information kiosk, directional signage, trail markers, fencing and gates, and expanded parking.

"Cutting the ribbon on these trails is a great milestone for the Park Commission and Lord Stirling Park, and to do it on Earth Day is just incredibly appropriate," said Somerset County Park Commission President Nancy D’Andrea. "Lord Stirling is one of the most beautiful and historic parks in central Jersey, and this is yet another step in maximizing its benefits to the community and visitors."

The new Lord Stirling Park trail network consists of 10 miles dedicated to equestrian use at the Stable, nine miles for hiking at the Environmental Education Center, and three miles connecting the two for both horses and pedestrians.

The park offers a wide variety of native wildflowers and plants as well as more than 244 species of birds, fox, deer, turtles, and frogs.

"Earth Day reminds us all of the importance of our natural surroundings, and of our obligation to recognize and protect them," said Somerset County Deputy Director Sara Sooy. "But it is also a reminder that the natural world is a joy, and few places resonate that joy more than the trailways at Lord Stirling Park."

Plans are being developed to continue to expand the trail network at Lord Stirling Park to surrounding areas. The expansion will connect the trail system to the Revolutionary-era Boudinot-Southard-Ross Farmstead, future Park Commission outdoor event spaces, Bernard Township’s Southard Park, and adjacent residential neighborhoods to the west of the Park.

Currently, the Stable has 12 public horses and another 23 horses boarded by paying residents. In addition to guided rides and public riding access to trails, the Friends of Lord Stirling Stable hold dog walks every Saturday morning from the Stable.

Organizations can also use the trails for nature walks, educational programs, or even fundraising 5K races. Except for during scheduled events, dogs are prohibited on the trails as are bicycles and motorized vehicles.

For more information on participating in scheduled programs or to reserve the trails, call 908- 722-1200 Ext. 5528 or visit somersetcountyparks.org/environmental-education-center.

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