Hiking Trails Within 45 Minutes of Hillsborough, NJ
Sourland Mountain Hiking Trail
Hillsborough, NJ
The Sourland Mountain Hiking Trails are great for people of all ages. There are multiple paths that offer easy and more difficult terrain. Mountain biking, dog walking and horseback riding are allowed on these trails. The Sourland Mountains are a popular hiking spot that’s very close to the Hillsborough area. It is a beautiful landmark which offers scenic views, rocks, and a pond. There are multiple trails that are suited for all ability levels with a large parking area and port-a johns. The trails here are a great way to exercise while enjoying a scenic view.
Duke Island Park
Bridgewater, NJ
Duke Island Park in Bridgewater is a huge geographic area that has a lot to offer visitors. There are paved and wooden hiking trails perfect for biking, running and hiking with scenic views. There are multiple parking lots, a visitors center and restrooms. The park also has pavilions for gatherings, a playground, fishing and lots of open space for recreational activities. There is a trail towards the end of the parking lots that leads up to a beautiful streaming waterfall. The water is very clear and you will usually see people sitting on the gravel sand as you walk up to the water. The water is shallow enough so you can put your feet in if you want to. This is a perfect park for kids of any ages as no extreme climbing is involved and there are flat paths and pretty views for all ages. If you are looking for a scenic view then this is the spot for you.
Colonial Park Trail
Somerset County, NJ
Colonial Park located in Franklin Township is a great area for walking, running, biking and fishing. There is also a large playground area, picnic areas, a dog park and tennis courts. There is a pond located at the parking entrance that you could walk by on one of the paths, stop to fish at or even sit down and enjoy the weather and the pond view. In addition, there is a garden you can walk through which includes a wide variety of beautiful flowers and plants (open from 9am-4pm). This spot is filled with activities for the whole family.
D&R Canal State Park
Somerset County, NJ
The D&R canal conistis of one path that is 77 miles long. This path goes all the way from New Brunswick to Trenton based on the distance you choose to walk. This path is great for short or long distance walks, runs or bike rides. The path is shaded and even on hot summer days and in colder temperatures the trees block the wind. The canal is a great place to see nature as you will see many turtles sitting on logs, fish and birds. The canal is flat and can be great for all ages.
Billie Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve
Princeton, NJ
Billie Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature preserve is a great spot to go to if you are looking for an adventure. There are over five different trails that you can take that are labeled by color which lead to different scenic routes. One of the most popular paths at this place is the yellow and red path which leads you to Devil's Cave where you can expect to see huge rock formations and a fantastic photo spot. This is a great place to go because there are paths for all ages and levels of hikers/walkers. There are some short paths that are more level while also having some more difficult lengthy paths that require you to climb over rocks and cross a stream. One of the most beautiful parts of this Nature Preserve is the big lake that is located in the center of the hiking paths.
Washington Valley Park
Bridgewater/Martinsville, NJ
Washington Valley Park has one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Jersey. This path is a bit hard to follow as it is downhill on the way to the waterfall and uphill on the way back. This path would be recommended for experienced hikers. Although the waterfall is a bit hard to find as you have to take a back road into a mini parking lot it is worth it once you see the amazing waterfall. The waterfall offers a picturesque setting with an amazing view. If you are looking for a more difficult but shorter hike with a great view then this is the place to go.
Institute Woods
Princeton, NJ
The Institute woods has a variety of trails that connect to Princeton Battlefield State park. One trail leads to a beautiful suspension bridge that you can walk across. It is about a 1.5-2 mile walk until you reach the actual bridge but the walk is worth it. The trails are flat and offer plenty of shade. Once you reach the bridge you can walk across it and take beautiful pictures. This place is good for all ages.
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