Explore New Jersey This Fall With These 9 Amazing Hikes

LONG VALLEY, NJ — Depending on where you live in the state, it can be easy to forget why New Jersey is called the Garden State. With over 42 percent of the state covered in forests, its no surprise there are some great hikes around the state. Check out some of the best hikes around New Jersey:

Delaware Raritan Canal

Hiking isn't just for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts. The Delaware Raritan Canal Trail runs from Trenton to New Brunswick, and much of the trail is stroller and wheelchair friendly. This hike also offers plenty of history along its 70 mile path. Read more about it here.

Round Valley Recreation Area

There are three marked trails at Round Valley; some are perfect for a family while other are more rugged and meant for experienced hikers. Trails range in length from nine miles to half a mile. Want to do all of them? Round Valley offers wilderness camping. Read more about it here.

Allaire State Park

There's a network of trails spanning 800 acres just waiting for you to explore in Allaire State Park. The trails are open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. You can also find pet friendly camping, and a historic iron working village and museum to explore. Read more about it here.

Island Beach State Park

Did you know there are oceanside hikes at Island Beach State Park? The park offers eight different hikes, all under a mile, for you to enjoy. Between October and April, some of the trails are open to horseback riding, and some of the trails are handicapped accessible. Read more about it here.

Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area

This hike has an unusual view once you reach the top: in addition to seeing lush greenery, you can also see out to the Manhattan skyline. On your way up you can see glacial erratics, waterfalls, and Tripod rock, a giant boulder supported by three rocks. Read more about it here.

Watchung Reservation

You can find multiple hikes here, but the Watchung Reservation History Trail is great for history buffs. The 6 mile hike takes you around historic landmarks, and was designed by the architects of New York's Central Park. Read more about it here.

Rancocas State Park

Located in a hardwood forrest, the trails in Rancocas State Park offer beautiful views of the creek and a large freshwater tidal marsh. If you prefer a little more guidance, the Nature Center offers guided nature walks and trails. Read more about it here.

Wenonah Trail System

The Wenonah Trail System offers six miles of hiking trails across 11 different hikes, and 40 different bridges. Some of the hikes offer views of the Wenonah Lake, and can be combined to make a longer trail. Read more about it here.

Schooley's Mountain Park

With over 790 acres of wilderness, there's a hike for everyone here. In addition to foot trails, there's also horseback riding, biking, and cross country skiing. Not interested in hiking? The park also offers plenty of play areas. Read more about it here.

Main image via Mike, Flickr