Celebrate National Trails Day In Long Valley

LONG VALLEY, NJ — June 3 is National Trails Day, and what better way to celebrate than by exploring some of Long Valley's hiking trails? With plenty of state parks and well maintained trails, theres a hike for everyone in the area.

Local Eagle Scout Alec DiLullo, of Troop 36, compiled this list of hikes to take in Long Valley. (Click here to see a map of the different hikes, along with detailed directions.)

Schooley's Mountain Park

A former YMCA campground, you can see some developed recreation areas, although much of the land remains undeveloped. In addition to hiking, this park also has boating, swimming, and fishing. Find more information here.

Patriot's Path

The 35 mile path has mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. The trail has many offshoots and side spurs, so unfamiliar hikers might want to stick to the official maps. Find more information here.

Maureen Ogden Preserve

This 228 acre preserve is home to different interior forest species, including red-shouldered hawks. The plenty of beautiful streams help supply water to 1.5 million NJ residents. Find more information here.

South Branch Wildlife Preserve

You can find many different types of birds in this wildlife preserve, including some that are endangered. Dragon flies are known to hang out around the preserve's wetland areas. Find more information here.

Columbia Trail

Running along a former rail road track, this trail is known for the Ken Lockwood Gorge. Known for colorful fall leaves and bright spring flowers, this trail is great for a hiker that likes to take plenty of pictures. Find more information here.

Hacklebarney State Park

This park was carved out thousands of years ago when the ice sheet that covered the area melted. Today, the park is known for its rock strewn landscape and many hiking trails. Find more information here.

Coleman Trail

Want to bring your pup along? This trail is a good fit for dogs and hikers of all skill levels, with a wide, well parked path. Find more information here.

Image via Steven Reynolds, Flicker

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