My TrailLink

Nor-Bath Trail
"Short, but sweet!"

"This trail is only about 4.5 miles long, running from just north of Jacksonville Park to Northampton. The only truly legal parking is at the Northampton trailhead, and in Bicentennial Park at about the mid-point on the south side of the trail. The surface is hardpacked crushed stone and i great for walking and biking, but equestrian use is now prohibited. The trail is completely level, and the side grass is mowed regularly. Wildflowers line most sections. It is a very attractive trail, but would be nicer if it were longer.

Rates a 7 out of 10!

-Fred"

Landsdown Trail
New and nice!

"This trail was just opened in the last month. It is just under two miles long, and the surface is excellent for walking or bike riding. The surface is level hard-pack with some fine gravel on the surface. Areas through cuts have been trenched on both sides to keep the trail dry! There are 1/4 mile posts along the trail that make handy camera stands! There are also fine views of the Raritan River and all the bridges have concrete decks. Parking at Landsdown Road is very limited. In Clinton, at the north end, one would have to find legal in-town parking.

An added feature is the presence of the Capoolong WMA Trail just across the active Lehigh Valley Line at the southern end of the trail.

I rate this a 7 out of 10!

-Fred"

Ammonoosuc Rail Trail
Great Improvement

"As of last summer, this trail was unusable due to a thick layer of coarse ballast covering the entire route. The ballast has been completely removed, and the trail is open and wide now. There are a few small areas with a smattering of gravel, but all-in-all, the surface is good for walking or biking. The trail begins at Industrial Rd, just southwest of Littleton proper, and ends at Woodsville, where some temporary road work may interfere with the trail.

There are pleasant views of the surrounding mountains and the Ammonoosuc River is always close by. There is ample access from Rte 302 and some side roads and services are available in Littleton, Lisbon, Bath and Woodville. This trail provides walkers and off-road bikers with an alternate route to travel along a busy highway.

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

Randolph Trails
Nice network!

"The town of Randolph has established a nice, lengthy network of trails though undeveloped areas, parks, school grounds, and, when necessary, along connecting roads. The surfaces are about equally divided among paved blacktop and moderate sized gravel (beginning to pack). Many of the parks have restroom facilities (real ones!) and water fountains. Some apparently even have concession stands, should you happen by during a game on the playing fields!

There are maps available at many parking access points. I would strongly suggest obtaining a map. The trails can be very hard to follow on some of the roadways, since diamond lanes have not yet been painted on most roads. There are some helpful signs along the routes, and it seems more are being added. There are scattered benches and memorial plaques. A summer benefit is that most of the off-road routes are well shaded. Parking is plentiful, but difficult to find without a trail map.

This is an interesting area for hiking and biking. The terrain is generally level with some gentle hills.

Rates an 8 out of 10!

Fred"

D & L Trail - Lehigh Canal South
In Hugh Moore Park

"I hiked the towpath from the Delaware at the junction with the Delaware Canal to a point just west of the end of Hugh Moore Park where the towpath seems to be crowded onto an active railroad ROW. The trail is in very good condition, varying from paved to hard pack to grassy. A mule drawn canal boat plies the inner section of the canal and rides are available. Most of the accoutrements of the canal are still in place. A fish passageway has been built where the Lehigh River meets the Delaware at a dam. Many active railroad lines parallel the canal and traffic is frequent, both long freights and sections to be assembled into larger trains. At the Delaware, there is a triple set of RR trestles (which out number the road crossings!)

There are numerous picnic areas within the park and water fountains and restrooms are available. Parking is plentiful. This is a very scenic, historic and peaceful area!

Rates a 9 out of 10!

Fred"

D & L Trail - Delaware Canal Towpath
Mini review

"This is a very limited review since I only hiked from the footbridge from Bull's Island in NJ to the bridge to Stockton NJ (3 miles). This section of the 60 mile trail is in excellent condition, crushed stone and packed dirt - wide and smooth. There are rest rooms at key points, many access points, explanatory signs, and great views. This trail sticks very close to the river. There are quaint inns and homes nestled against the canal, and many bridges and canal hardware in place.

This trail for 30 of it's miles is parallel to the D&R in New Jersey across the river, making loops possible by using the six bridges across the Delaware. This is an excellent trail and worth a trip.

So far - rates a 9 out of 10!

Fred"

D & H Canal Linear Park
A nice easy path.

"The section from just south of Hornbeck's Basin (which is the best parking access to the towpath) to Rte 209 in Summitville is a good trail for a leisurely walk or ride. It is level, the surface is very good and well maintained. There is currently a collapsed bridge just north of Hornbeck""s Basin, but the concrete slab is stable and easy to walk across. Bikers may want to ford the stream if the water isn't too high. From this point to Rte 209, the NYO&W ROW forms a rail trail parallel to and just east of the towpath. This can provide an alternate return route.

Scenery is pleasant, with limited views of the Shawangunks to the east. Some pluses are portapotties at strategic locations, mileage and directional markers, and a couple of shaded picnic tables.

Today I ran into a seasonal downside to this trail. Whenever the breeze let up, deer flies were a serious problem and there were a small number of mosquitos too. I used a head-net to protect myself from the deer flies. However, for a more pleasant experience, I would recommend visiting this trail in the cool (or cold) weather or, if in the summer, on a windy day.

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

Johnson Trolley Line Trail
Disappointing!

"I evaluated this trail in two separate trips, since there is no starting point or ending point listed for the 2.5 miles, and the ROW is much longer than that.

There is a section in the northern part of Lawrenceville from Gordon Rd to Denow Rd (at I-195) which parallels Rte 206 (to the west of it). It varies from mown grass, packed earth, and fine gravel. It is less than a mile long and pleasant. There is a narrow open culvert, which can be stepped across, but bikes would have to go around (easy). I-195 is at ground level, so there will be no connection to the ROW on the other side, except by a long road detour.

From I-195 to Eggert Crossing Rd (just over 1 mile), 1/3 at the north end is completely overgrown, the next 1/3 is a flooded cut on the campus of Rider U. The next 1/3 is a grassy, dirt road, with a detour to ford a very shallow brook where a bridge is out.

From Eggert Crossing Rd south, the trail is wide and paved for about 1/2 mile, then grassy to packed dirt for another 1/2 mile. Here the ROW crosses a good, solid wooden bridge into the town of Ewing. It continues over a mile in Ewing and the surface is good. There is some puddle formation, but plenty of dry ""shoulders"". At Spruce St in Ewing, the ROW ran down the middle of 5 th St to Olden Ave. Here the ROW disappears into brush in a used car lot.

The better sections are not bad, but the middle is the pits! It would help if the town would define it's official route!

Rates 1 4 out of 10!

Fred"

Kingston Branch Loop Trail
A Rail Trail with a loop!

"This trail can be ridden or walked as a loop since the railroad ROW follows the east bank of the Delaware and Raritan Canal, while the towpath follows the west bank. Both surfaces are in excellent condition and are amply wide. Parking is available in abundance at both ends, and historic markers and informative signs are strategically placed.

An excellent feature of this loop is, although it is relatively short - just under 4 miles, since the canal towpath extends for miles in both directions, a hike or ride of any distance may be accomplished. Expect to meet many walkers, joggers, dog-walkers, bicyclists, and even an occasional equestrian. This is a very scenic and relaxing (completely level) trail.


Rates an 8 out of 10!

Fred"

Pequest Wildlife Management Area Trail
Amazing transformation!

"It's been almost three years since my last trip to the Pequest WMA trail. Its former state was the reason for the lapse. The trail is now a trail! It has been completely cleared of all vegetation, ties and rails. It is now an excellent trail with two shortcomings, mostly for bikers and horseback riders.

A considerable portion of the ROW consists of moderately large gravel, which is not the greatest surface for walking, but not that bad. It would be a different story for bikers. At least 50% of the trail is of better consistency, and in many areas, ""wheel tracks"" have moved the gravel aside.

There are 3 steel bridges over the Pequest River, which are suitable for walking, but not for bikes and impossible for horses. There is no decking on the bridges, just open ties in varying states of decay, with clear views of the rushing water below.

The area is very attractive, and if the bridges were upgraded and the trail surface made more user friendly, this would rank with the best trails. It is completely level and has only two rural road crossings and one private crossing. There are many views of the river and it passes under the old DL&W main line. Parking is available at the north end, at the Hatchery access road and at Pequest Furnace Rd.

This trail has undergone an amazing transformation. Let's hope it can make the next step to a great trail!

Now rates a 6 out of 10!"

Morris Canal
A walk through history

"This section of restored Morris Canal and towpath is divided into two disconnected sections. About 1/2 mile section in Waterloo Village is well restored, with water in the canal, descriptive signs are restored canal structures. The Canal Society of New Jersey Museum is located here. Below the village parking lot, fishing is very popular in the canal.

Route 80 currently cuts this section off form the 1 1/2 mile section of towpath below. In this section, the towpath is clear, but the canal is essentially an overgrown trench. There are signs at various points of interest, and sturdy wooden bridges cross water channels. There is a passageway under Rte 80, but it is not currently accessible without some unpleasant bushwhacking on foot. These sections are suitable for biking, although there are some sections of exposed roots.

About 1 mile beloe the current southern end of the towpath, at Saxton Falls, there is another section of canal and towpath at a lock and dam. The towpath extends close to 1/2 mile north on a causeway near the lake shore. Here the canal traffic used the slack water off the lake behind the dam. South of Saxton Falls the canal crosses Rte 604. There is a short section of well cleared towpath which ends at dense vegetation just after the point that the canal again holds water. Clearing is scheduled to continue from here as volunteer time becomes available.

All in all, this is a very interesting walk/ride along an amazing feat of engineering from our past. Let's hope the restoration of the towpath continues.

Rates an 8 out of 10!

Fred"

Wood Duck Nature Trail (Wallkill River NWR)
A Fine nature trail!

"This short nature trail is replete with interpretive signs, numerous benches and wooden bridges. It is limited to foot travel, and even then, jogging is not allowed. The area is a wide wetland, and as such, can be quite ""buggy"" in warm weather unless there is a stiff breeze. The surface is excellent and being improved. The first third is hard packed sandy earth, going to hard packed dirt and then grass. There is ample parking at Rte 565, and three different brochures are available at a kiosk at the parking area. I had been here about five years ago, when the work on this ROW had just started. It has been greatky improved. If leisurely walks through natural areas are your thing, this trail is for you.

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

Henry Hudson Trail
In progress!

"The Monmouth Heritage Trail has been completely cleared of debris. It is scheduled to be paved in the next year. During this time the Monmouth County Park Service has posted ""Area Closed"" signs along with snow fences at all road access points. I have posted some pictures at access points of the staus of this project, and look forward to its completion.

Looks like it will rate high!

Fred"

Rocky Branch Trail (NH)
Limited bike access

The middle section of this trail lies in the Dry River Wilderness are that is closed to bikes. Foot travel is allowed.

Fred

Thoreau Falls Trail
No biking allowed

All of this trail lies in the Pemi Wilderness which is closed to bikes. Foot travel is allowed.

-Fred

Lincoln Brook Trail
Bikes not allowed

All of this trail lies in the Pemi Wilderness which is closed to bikes. Foot travel is allowed.

-Fred

Franconia Brook Trail
Biking not allowed

All of this trail lies in the Pemi Wilderness which is closed to bikes. Foot travel is allowed.

-Fred

Ethan Pond Trail
Not open to Bikes

"This trail is an extension of the Zealand Trail, but lies completely within the Pemi Wilderness and is not open to anything but foot travel. The Zealand Trail is multi-use.

-Fred"

Dry River Trail
Bikes very limited!

All but the very southern section of this trail lies in the Dry River Wilderness area that is closed to bikes. Foot travel is allowed.

-Fred

Cedar Brook Trail
Bikes limited!

All but the very southern section of this trail lies in the Pemi Wilderness which are is closed to bikes. Foot travel is allowed.

-Fred

Railroad Ramble
Pretty little stroll!

"This railtrail is only a mile long, but it is very attractive. It is wide with a mostly mowed grass surface with some packed earth. It passes over a couple of brooks and through some picturesque wetlands. Today there were a couple of people planting ferns on an embankment next to a pond.

There is very limited parking at the trail, but there is parking in Salisbury proper a block or two away. It is too short to travel a distance for, but if you are in the area, check it out!

Rates a 6 out of 10!

Fred"

Wharton Rail-Trail (part of Patriots' Path)
A mini-trail!

"This short paved trail is all that is left to the public of the Mt Hope Mineral RR. It is a nice little trail through a former industrial area to the center of Wharton. Sidings into long closed industrial sites give a glimpse back into the history of this line. The original ROW (and the trail) cross over the Rockaway River and the (now) NJ Transit tracks. At S. Main St the trail ends where the original ROW crossed the historic Morris Canal.

This is a relaxing walk/ride, probably more suited to strolling for local residents or as a short cut to shoppers. Local street parking is available. Rates a 5 out of 10!

Fred"

Shawangunk, Walden, and Wallkill Rail Trail
Some good - some bad!

"The northern leg of this trail (from RR Ave and CE Penny Dr to Birch Rd) is in very good condition. It passes mainly through farmland and is 1 1/4 miles long. It is depressed in sections, and may hold water after rainfall. There is parking available at the start of this section.

The southern section is due south about .3 miles along RR Ave. A sign on Rte 208 marks the beginning of this section. For .9 miles this section is similar to the northern section. At the crossing of a private road clearly signed ""Muktunanda Marg"", the trail suddenly turns into a bog! Water lies rather deeply on the trail from here on as far as the eye can see.

The dry sctions of this trail are very nice, but since I hiked in the middle of a drought, with so significant recent rain, I would imagine the rest of the trail is always wet.

Rates a 5 out of 10!

Fred"

Hudson Valley Rail Trail
Nice! Could be longer.

" This trail runs from Riverside Ave in Tony Williams Park in Lloyd Township east and south for almost 2.5 miles. It follows the double-tracked (and sometimes triple-tracked) ROW with one width being paved and the other width left as a natural path. This makes the trail equally useful for hiking, biking, in-line skating, and horseback-riding. There are a number of benches along the route and many railroad artifacts dot the route.
At the eastern end, there is about 1/4 mile of unpaved trail, with a generally good surface. West of Tony Williams Park, the ROW (as a single-track now) is clear but unimproved for about a mile. This section is better for walking, as there are occasional bits of debris on the trail. If these two end sections were paved, a nice short trail could become a nicer, longer trail.
Since this trail is rather wide, shade is hard to come by around midday.
The section between the eastern effective end at Rte 44/55 in Highland is unusable to the Mid Hudson RR Bridge. It is full of standing water, trash, and, for the most part, is quite overgrown. Since the bridge is closed for the forseeable future due to litigation, this section currently serves no useful purpose anyway.

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

Wallkill Valley Rail-Trail
A Bridge Too Fair!

" This trail is an extension of the Wallkill Valley Trail on private land that is open to foot and bike traffic only. The condition of the trail surface is excellent. Parking is only available nearby in the village of Rosendale on town streets at the northern end. Otherwise parking can be found at the Cragswood Rd and Coffey Rd crossings of the Wallkill Valley Trail, just south of this trail. From the New Paltz border to Rosendale center the trail is scenic, but nothing to compare with the final walk/ride out onto tthe high bridge at Roundout Creek! This is a truly spectacular view well worth a long trip to reach! The bridge is closed about 3/4 of the way across, but the views and the structure itself are a marvel.

Rates an 8 out of 10!

Fred"

Sussex Branch Trail
Bridges up and bridges down!

" When I first hiked this trail about 6 years ago, there were five missing bridges in the northern section of the trail. A couple of years later, sturdy spans had been erected to connect all the ""dead-end sections."" There are only two significant breaks now. Approaching Newton, the trail has been gobbled up by private interests. One has to follow city streets along the arc that once was the ROW. It leaves town and heads out into a large marsh that forms the headwaters of the Paulinskill River. About 1/2 mile into the marsh, one encounters Moor's Creek, a small stream with no true bridge. At times there have shaky make-shift ""bridges"" here, but nothing substantial and definitely not permanent. I have waded through this creek (it is only 4-6 inches deep unless rain has been plentiful). Bikers would be better off taking County Rte 663 north out of Newton and picking up the trail when it runs parallel to this road (beyond the creek). This is about 3/4 miles north from Newton.
The rest of this trail is wide and well surfaced. There is a seasonally wet section just north of Cranberry Lake. There is parking at almost all road crossings, some very large. In Cranberry Lake, Andover, Newton, Lafayette, and Branchville, services are available close to the trail. Most of the terrain the trail passes through is very pretty, and it is constantly changing.
Hiking, biking and horseback riding are all very popular. The trail also provides access for anglers near the five new bridges over the Paulinskill. The grade changes often, but is always gentle.
This is one of my favorite rail trails in New Jersey. If the bridge ever gets replaced over Moor's Creek, it would be even better!

Rates an 8 out of 10!

Fred"

Columbia Trail
Update!

" I returned to the Columbia Trail today. The bridge over the river in Ken Lockwood Gorge is now completely renovated. The river was full of anglers in hip boots, and the daffodils along the trail in High Bridge were almost at peak bloom. A local scout leader informed me that they were unable to plant new bulbs this past year because the donor did not supply any. But the reblooming existing bulbs are attractive, if not as dense as usual.

Fred"

Paulinskill Valley Trail
A Great Trail!

" This is my favorite rail trail in New Jersey! It is long (about 27 miles), complete (no breaks except for a few up-and-downs around dismantled overpasses), very scenic, and, except for the opening weekend of trout season, uncrowded. The southern half of the trail tracks the Paulinskill River, passing farmlands and very small towns. Near the southern end, the Paulinskill viaduct of the Lackawanna, a remarkable structure, passes overhead.
Approaching Blairstown, a minor detour is necessary to avoid the runway of the airport, which has glider flights available. In Blairstown, there is a footbridge in a town park over the river.
At Swartswood Junction, the old Lehigh and New England ROW goes left along the river, while the Paulinskill Valley Trail goes right and gradually ascends the hill leaving the river. It passes through a number of deep cuts and crosses Rte 206 and Rte 94, crossing it's namesake river again at Warbasse. Here it crosses the Sussex Branch Trail. From here it runs along the Morris Farm Lafayette Stream and ends at the active rail line at Sparta Junction.
Parking is available at or near most road crossings. Milepost signs have been restored, and little wooden mileage signs give distances in both directions to noteworthy destinations.
A very deep cut just west of Rte 94 has been undergoing renovation. It was previously impassable due to standing water, trash and overgrowth. It is now useable, avoiding a scramble up the side of the cut.
The surface is always good, the bridges are substantial, and hiking, biking, and horseback riding are very popular. The route is always shaded and avoids populated areas.
This is a gem in New Jersey's rail trail portfolio!

Rates a 9 out of 10!

Fred"

Ogden Mine Railroad Path
Away from it all

" This relatively short trail has a ground cinder surface good for hiking and biking. Parking is only available at Saffin Pond at about the 1/3 point from the southern end. The trail passes some very scenic wetlands and ponds that teem with wildlife. The frogs can be symphonic at times!
The Wallkill River begins near here, and the crossing of the river (a brook at this point) is deeply eroded, necessitating a scramble - bikers beware! In the summer, a large percent of the wildlife consists of biting insects, so take proper precautions.

Rates a 6 out of 10!

Fred"

Karamac Trail
"Short, scenic!"

" This short rail trail runs a little over a mile from just above the I-80 at Old Mine Rd to a point where old railway crossed the river. The old bridge abutements are still at the former crossing. There are nice views of the river, and fishing is popular along the banks. The grade is fairly level and the surface is foot friendly.

Rates a 5 out of 10!

Fred"

Henry Hudson Trail
My favorite winter trail

"This is a long paved trail, fairly level, scenic, and cleaned up religiously every day. There are a large number of street crossings, some quite busy. The neighborhoods are quiet, quaint and varied. The salt marshes appear at various points along the trail, and water channels flow under the trail at many points. Many of the street crossings give access to various services.

I am particularly drawn to this trail in the winter because of it's proximity to the water. It tends to be a bit warmer than more inland trails, and although snow isn't removed, it melts quickly. There are a few dedicated parking areas, especially at the west end, and street parking is available almost everywhere along the route. It is even possible to walk the whole route and take a bus back to your starting point.

There are plans to extend the trail a considerable distance at both ends, but so far they remain just plans.

Rates an 8 out of 10!

Fred"

Boulevard Trolley Line Path
Tour the Town

" This trail is wide, well paved and well used. The homes, the lakes, and the plants and trees make this a pleasant and interesting walk/ride/skate. The grade is gently rolling and shade is plentiful. This is one of the few trails on which snow is removed in the winter.
All-in-all this is a nice little trail.

Rates a 6 out of 10!

Fred"

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail
A marathon!

" This trail is almost 70 miles long, which is amazing for New Jersey. It is essentially two connected (actually disconnected) trails. The section along the Delaware River from above Frenchtown to downtown Trenton is a rail trail that picks up and follows the canal from Bull's Island south. The section from Trenton to New Brunswick lies on the towpath for the canal.
The first section is quiet and lies between the river and Rte 29. Once the canal begins, there are more artifacts to see such as locks, mills and increasing towns. Towns such as Stockton, Lambertville, and Titusville are picturesque and provide places to sightsee and to eat. There are bridges to Pennsylvania at a number of points, including a footbridge at Bull's Island. In the upper areas, groups of rafters can often be seen on the river. Lower down there are rapids, dams and falls. Washington Crossing State park provides many activities and facilities. As the canal reaches West Trenton, it has become elevated above the surrounding land. Roads pass through tunnels under the canal. As the canal goes deeper into Trenton, urban decay is evident, but the canal remains intact and wends it's way through parking lots, past tenaments and high rise buildings. This section ends when the canal disappears beneath Rte 1 for just over a mile.
The second section from northern Trenton on gradually leaves the industrial area of Trenton behind and enters suburban, then rural areas. The section in Princeton is quite heavily used, but the trail becomes less busy and more rural from here on. There are many locks in place along this canal and fishermen can always be found along the banks. The largest frogs in the state in large numbers make their home in the canal. The entire canal is used as a water supply system. As the canal approaches South Bound Brook, the Raritan River comes alongside. The canal follows the river until it disappears into the river in New Brunswick.
The rail trail along the Delaware is finely crushed and compacted stone. Walking, jogging and biking are allowed. Fishing and small boat use is allowed along the whole canal. The towpath from Trenton north is natural surface, in various conditions, all suitable for hiking and biking, and horseback riding is allowed here also.
This trail is a gem! It was preserved early by the state after it's prior uses had been abandoned. Enjoy the state's foresight!

Rates a 9 out of 10!

Fred"

Columbia Trail
A gorgeous gorge!

" This trail is a continuation into Hunterdon County of Morris County's ever-present Patriots Path. The path is generally good for walking and riding. From Valley Brook Rd to Califon, the trail passes through farm lands and past rural-suburban homes. The next 1/3 of the trail goes from small town to river paradise, with the trail gradually becoming higher and higher above the South Branch of the Raritan River.
Soon the trail enters Ken Lockwood Gorge, an extremely scenic and isolated area with cascades and rapids, and views galore. The trail crosses the river on a high trestle, which, as of my last trip, was not completely improved but passable.
The views from the bridge and along the trail above and below the bridge are gorgeous. South of the bridge, the trail passes through a number of cuts and high fills, passing Lake Solitude (massive beds of daffodils bloom here every spring), and enters the town of High Bridge where it ends.
This trail is well worth a visit at any time of year.

Rates an 8 out of 10!

Fred"

Berkshire Valley Management Area Trail
A steep rail trail!

" This trail is another segment of the Ogden Mine RR (the other useable section is in Mahlon Dickerson Reservation about 5 miles further north). From Gorden Road, the trail rises gently, then rather steeply for a railroad ROW, with the valley on the right and the hill on the left. For most of the route, the left side of the trail is occupied by a 30 inch steel pipeline. The area is attractive and peaceful. Near the top of it's rise, the trail tends to be wet, and just before the end there appears a fork in the trail. The right fork is the original ROW, but is very wet. The left fork is a path worn by trail users that passes above the wet areas and reaches Minnisink Rd.
This is a good trail for a fair workout.

Rates a 6 out of 10!

Fred"

Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway
A broken trail!

"This trail has major breaks at a golf course and an Interstate highway requiring long detours on an unmarked trail. The western end becomes more overgrown and the last 1/4 mile is virtually impassable. Improvements could be made along this trail, but obviously the golf course and I-195 are not going anywhere!

Rates a 3 out of 10!

Fred"

Edgar Felix Memorial Bikeway
A world of difference!

" This trail is actually a continuation of the Freehold and Jamesburg Trail (same ROW), but what a difference! The trail is black-topped for it's complete length, bridges the Garden State Parkway, and has distance markers along the route. It is popular with bikers, joggers, and in-line skaters. It passes through small villages, and past beautiful homes, and parks and recreation areas. Some sections are unshaded and can be hot in sthe summer.
This trail is worth a visit.

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

Hamburg Mountain Wildlife Management Area
A trail with trains!

" This trail runs from an active line and parallels the active line for most of its length. As the ROWs go down hill, they grow farther and farther apart. If you happen to see a train on the active line, it will be a long freight. The grade is generally moderate, but never level and the path is suitable for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Views are limited, but solitude isn't (if you don't count the freight trains).

Rates a 6 out of 10!

Fred"

Black River Wildlife Management Area Trail
A level woods path

" This is a very pleasant trail with no road crossings (or direct road access for that matter). The trail parallels the river, but is almost never within view of it. It is wide and has a packed base for the most part, making it very easy to walk/ride. The western end is more of an earthen path, and can collect water.
The trail is popular for horseback riding, and this WMA is heavily used during hunting seasons. Take proper precautions during the various hunting seasons. Bug protection is also recommended from spring to fall. I carry a ""head-net"" everywhere in the bug season, just in case!
This trail is also, for most of it's length, a part of the Patriots Path. Just before the northern end, the Patriots Path turns east, up the hill and away from the river, and reaches the Dover-Chester Rd (Rte 513) where there is parking. At the southern end, a road walk around a missing section of the PP to Rte 206 will connect with a new section of the Patriot Path to Cooper Mill and Chubb Park. A PP map is available from the Morris County Park Commision.
This trail is ideal for cross-country skiing, if we ever get snow in New Jersey!

Rates a 6 out of 10!

Fred"

Wilderness Trail
Bikes limited!

" This trail is listed as being open to mountain biking. The first 2.9 miles of this trail from the Kancamagus Highway (renamed the Lincoln Woods Trail) are open to bikes. At the junction with the Franconia Brook Trail, the Wilderness Trail enters the Pemigewasset Wilderness, where all bikes are prohibited. The next 6 miles are only open to foot travel. The section open to biking, is wide, fairly heavily used and goes gradually uphill, with an odd railroad tie still in the ground in spots.
The hiking section of the trail follows the river and is an access route to all the interior trails in the wilderness. It is a very pretty trail, and easy to walk.

Fred"

Ramsey Bike Path
A shorty!

" This is a short paved path, level and straight. The Interstate Shopping Center provides plenty of parking and a second reason to visit the area. There are a number of street crossing for such a short trail. It's a nice little trail if you are looking for something short.

Rates a 4 out of 10!

Fred"

Black River County Park Trail
A Patriots' Path section

" This trail is part of the Morris County Patriots' Path System. It runs near the Black River from the Cooper Mill on Rte 24 and after a mile rurns left, uphill to the Kay Environmental Center. The trail is short, but pleasant. The added incentives to visit this trail are the Cooper Mill and Fay Environmental Center.
The Cooper Mill, an operating gristmill, is open to the public. Visitors may observe stone grinding of whole wheat flour and corn meal.
The Kay Environmental Center is open 7 days a week in the summer (July and August) and weekdays the rest of the year. In the summer staff naturalists offer tours, and other programs. Self-guided walking tours are always available.
The trails that lead south of the turn up to the Kay Center are only open by permit from the Morris County Park Police. This is a wildlife management area. The section between the wildlife management area and Hacklebarney (a norrow stretch) is private property.
Plan a trip to visit both the Mill and the Kay and enjoy, the walk/ride between them!

(Note: The Patriots' Path now continues north of Cooper Mill along the river to Rte 206, with a branch up to Chubb Park).

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

Pequest Wildlife Management Area Trail
Needs work!

" The only parking area for this trail is just off Rte 46 at the entrance to the Pequest Hatchery, just before crossing the Pequest River. The trail goes north of here for just over 1 mile, but is mostly overgrown. The section immediately south is densely overgrown at first, but becomes more passable after a short distance. Brush and saplings sprout generously along the rest of the ROW. Ties are in place, though quite rotted, along most of the trail. Biking is impossible except for masochists! Walking can be difficult, and the easiest use of the trail is feeding the bugs - your blood! The area is very attractive, but the trail needs a lot of work.

Rates a 2 out of 10!

Fred"

Capoolong Creek Wildlife Management Area
A winding railway!

" This pleasant, flat trail winds it's way along the Capoolong Creek from Pittstown to the active rail line in Lansdowne. It is a pretty walk along a trout stream. Biking and horseback riding are allowed. The southern half of the trail has the bulk of the limited parking areas. There is a steel bridge near the middle, with bridge ties in place. Just north of the bridge, there is a short detour around a superfund site (a former DDT plant). Just beyond this site, the trail can be wet for a while. This trail can be buggy in the usual seasons, but is a pleasant walk/ride at other times. or with proper protection.

Rates a 6 out ot 10!

Fred"

Saddle River Area Bike Path - Bergen County
Cold weather trail for hikers!

" I review this trail as a hiker. I am sure this is a wonderful trail for bikers, skaters, joggers, dog walkers, baby strollers, etc, but for hikers it is too heavily used. It does pass through a busy suburban area with few street crossings, and the river, bridges, and adjoining parks are pleasant for casual walking or combining with park or picnic activities. It is well paved, wide, and well-maintained. There is plentiful parking at most road crossings, and access from parallel roads. As a hiker, I find this path most useful in the winter, when the cold and/or snow keeps the other users to a minimum. I do not mind sharing, but in warm, sunny weather, I feel too crowded on this popular path.

Rates a 5 out of 10!(hiking)

Fred"

Patriots' Path
Always growing!

" Morris County's ambitious 50+ mile trail system is ever expanding. The system map, available from the Morris County Park Commission shows all of the completed sections (as of the last printing) and all of the proposed sections. Every six months, or so, I hunt for newly opened sections, and am never disappointed. The trail system has something to suit everyone, from urban sections to wilderness, from suburban strolls to steep rustic climbs.
The section from Rte 24 in Mendham through Lewis Morris Park and Jockey Hollow to the NJ Brigade Hut Sites is the only one that is for hiking only. All other sections are open to biking and many are open to horseback riding.
There are connections to the Essex County Lenape Trail system, and to the Hunterdon County system, as well as the NYNJ Highlands Trail (a millenium trail).
This system is well worth the visit (and many returns), but do get the map, by mail from the Park Commission, or by visiting the Commission headquarters at the Frelingheusen Arboretum on Hanover Ave in Morristown. At the Arboretum, maps of dozens of Morris County Parks and Reservations are also available.
Be a Patriot for a day, and you will be one for life!

Rates a 9 out of 10!

Fred"

Traction Line Recreation Trail
A Trail for all seasons!

" This 3 mile trail is a wide paved pathway that slopes gently along its route. It is suitable for walking, biking and in-line skating. Perhaps the most interesting feature of this trail is that the Morris County Park Commission clears this trail of snow within 24 hours of the snowfall. While this precludes cross-country skiing, it provides an outlet for ""cabin-fever"" in winters with heavy snowfall.
There is a small parking area at the west end, and available street parking at either end. The only roadways crossed are private entrances, so traffic is minimal. The train traffic on the Morris and Essex line alongside the trail is anything but minimal. It is amazing how quiet the electric trains are!

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

West Essex Trail
In my own back yard!

" The West Essex Trail (aka- Caldwell Bikeway and currently part of the Lenape Trail) is now about 3 1/2 miles long. It extends from the active Boonton Line tracks (just north of Francisco Ave in Little Falls) to the end of Arnold Way in Verona. The trail actually had continued another 1/3 mile to Bloomfield Ave, but recently a house was built across the ROW just beyond Arnold Way. An old section between Bloomfield Ave and Caldwell College is still there, but overgrown, since it is cut off from the main trail. The best parking is in the Cedar Grove Municipal Park. The trail is quite heavily used by walkers, joggers and bikers. A trestle over the Peckman River, currently closed, is scheduled for renovation soon. From the Peckman River, the grade is gently up in either direction. The surface is generally foot and bike friendly, with a few eroded spots, and some ties in place on the bridge over Pompton Ave.

Since the trail is less than 2 miles from my house, I frequently hike there when I am pressed for time, or the weather is threatening.

The ""gorge"" at the Peckman River can be quite impressive after a rain, and a high fill north of the Cedar Grove Park is a noteworthy attraction.

Dog walkers are quite frequent on this trail. Many of the yards abutting the trail are home to dogs, but all are fenced off from the trail. The trail is generally well shaded, making it a pleasant walk in the hot summer. It is suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, if we ever get snow!

All-in-all, this is a nice walk in a suburban area.

Rates a 7 out of 10!

Fred"

Old Erie Path
A Palisades gem!

"This is one of the best rail trails in the metropolitan NYC area. The best time to travel this trail is from late fall to early spring to take advantage of the open views of the Hudson River, Piermont, the Tappan Zee Bridge and Westchester. Earlier in the fall, the views are more restricted, but the foliage is gorgeous. The southern end of the trail connects with the Joseph B Clarke Rail Trail, and the northern end connects with the Raymond G Esposito Bikeway. The Long Path crosses the trail at Ash St in Piermont and a loop hike can be made by connecting with the Long Path in Nyack at Highland Ave (less than 1/2 mile west -uphill - from the Cedar Hill Ave end of the RG Esposito Bikeway.

Take time to appreciate the architecture of many of the houses above and below the trail on the steep embankments in Grandview and Piermont. Also avail yourself of the many restaurants and shops in the picturesque village of Piermont.

Rates a 9 out of 10!

-Fred"

Samuel G. Fisher Mount Ivy Environmental Park
Pleasant Quicky!

"This little trail is actually only 1 1/4 miles long. The northern end is just beyond the fence of the Mt Ivy Diner parking lot. After passing through a large open area, do not follow the grassy road at the left side of the clearing. The trail is the cinder path that exits the middle area of the clearing. The trail proceeds via a fill through a wetland area, never out of earshot of the Palisades Parkway traffic. The trail beyond Station Rd (at the American Legion Post) is overgrown and used as a drainage ditch to Pomona Rd. Parking is available at both ends. Bicycles are not permitted, but hiking, cross country skiing and horseback riding are allowed.

Rates 6 put of 10!

-Fred"

Wallkill Valley Rail-Trail
"Views, views, views!"

"This is a truly amazing trail, undergoing constant improvement, in a beautiful area of the Hudson Valley. Route 299 (Main St) in New Paltz is the approximate midpoint of the trail and plentiful parking is available nearby. The section north of Main St is quite heavily used, and has frequent road crossings. It eventually crosses the Wallkill River on a reconstucted trestle and then passes through farrnland with views to the Shawangunks to the west. At the Rosendale town line, the public rail trail ends. The ROW for 4 1/2 miles beyond is privately owned, but open to hikers and bikers through the generosity of the landowner. If you use this section of trail, respect the generosity!

The farther south one goes the trail becomes more lightly utilized. This section has considerably better views of the Shawangunks and the surrounding valley. It passes though a large apple orchard, with sections in various stages of production and reclamation. Parking along the southern section is quite limited, the best being at Rte 44/55 in Gardiner. I haven't been there in the fall, but I will be back there when the leaves begin to turn this year!

Rates a 9 out of 10!

-Fred"

Raymond G. Esposito Trail
An in-town path!

"This short trail is an extension of the Old Erie Rail Trail into South Nyack. The northern terminus is at Cedar Hill Ave at the Nyack/South Nyack border in the Franklin St. Park. A big bonus to this trail is that it crosses over the NY Thruway on its own right-of-way. South of the Thruway it ""becomes"" the Old Erie Rail Trail in Grandview.

There are some nice views of a picturesque area that has been overwhelmed by modern infrastructure!

Rates a 7 out of 10!

-Fred"

Heritage Trail (aka Orange Heritage Trail)
"If you build it, they will come!"

"This is an excellent trail with plenty of free parking at many strategic points. In-line skaters, walkers, runners, joggers, bikers, and (rarely it seems) cross country skiers will enjoy this well maintained, patrolled asphalt trail. The trail is not level, having a number of rolling grades along the route. It features mileage markers, road crossing signs and scattered benches. You will never find this trail devoid of people, almost all of whom are friendly! Chester and Goshen are villages worth exploring along the route. Mid summer can be a bit unpleasant, since large sections are unshaded, but between Chester and Goshen there is even an ice cream stand right on the edge of the trail.

Rates an 8 out of 10!

-Fred"

Joseph B. Clarke Rail Trail
Easy walk

"My reviews are as a hiker.

The southern terminus of this trail (at Oak Tree Road) and Sparkill (about 1 mile north) have parking available. North of Kings Highway, the water treatment plant can emit some unpleasant odors for a short distance.

After crossing Route 303 the trail is broken by the CSX River Line. A detour along nearby streets is necessary. The north end is abrupt behind Esposito's Market in Blauvelt (on Western Highway to your left).

This trail also connects with the Nyack Rail Trail by way of an eastern spur, just north of Sparkill.

This is an easy pleasant walk of about 4 miles.

Rates a 5 out of 10!"