Kingston Branch Loop Trail:
New Jersey
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Description:
The Kingston Branch Loop Trail is a trip up one side and down the other of the scenic tree-lined Delaware and Raritan Canal. The eastern half of the loop follows the bed of the Rocky Hill Railroad and Transportation Company, which began operation between Kingston and Rocky Hill in 1870. The remainder of the loop travels the dirt and gravel canal towpath.

From the parking lot on the north side of State Route 27/Lincoln Highway, the crushed stone rail-trail travels 1.75 miles to State Route 518/Georgetown-Franklin Turnpike. Walk across the bridge over the canal on the narrow sidewalk, and turn left for the return trip south on the canal towpath.

The entire route is tree-lined and remains fairly cool on even the hottest summer days. With the peaceful Delaware and Raritan Canal in view at all times, you will bear witness to its popularity with boaters, birders and anglers. Canoes, kayaks and small craft with electric motors are permitted along this section of the watered canal. Bass, sunfish, perch and annually stocked trout are just some of the fish in the canal.

On your way back to the trailhead on Route 27, take time to explore the restored Lock #8, the locktender's house and the site of an old mill. The charming village of Kingston contains five historic districts worth exploring for an afternoon.

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Parking & Trail Access:
From US 1 take Ridge Road west to Kingston. At the SR 27 traffic light turn left. Proceed approximately 0.25 mile, and turn right into the parking lot.

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Reviews: [1 trail ratings]
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Nice alternative to the D&R trail
By dhoerl in July, 2010
I'be been parking at Griggstown and biking 10 miles to Plainsboro, half on the canal, half on bike lanes in the Forrestal Village. Using this on the way home adds some diversity to the ride. Its well maintained - in fact you could argue the gravel is better for biking than the standard D&R material.
"The ""Other Side"" of the Canal"
By Tony in October, 2003
"The Kingston Branch Loop Trail is somewhat of a misnomer. In actuality, the “trail” consists of nothing more than a round-trip route using both sides of the D&R Canal between Route 27 in Kingston and Route 518 in Rocky Hill.

The canal towpath is located on the canal’s west bank and an abandoned railroad line is located on its east. As you might expect, both trail segments are totally flat. However, the rail trail’s surface is composed of slightly finer ballast than the canal towpath’s and is a completely different color.

For some reason dog walkers seem to prefer the rail trail; perhaps the large parking lots located at both ends might be the reason.

Regardless of which side of the canal you should choose, expect basically the same views and travel experience."
A Rail Trail with a loop!
By Fred in June, 2002
"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"
Trail Facts
Trail End Points: Main St./Lincoln Hwy/SR 27 (Kingston) to Georgetown Flranklin Trnpk. CR 518 (Rocky Hill)
Counties: Somerset
Trail Length: 3.7 miles
Trail Category: Rail-Trail
Trail Surfaces: Crushed Stone, Gravel, Dirt
Trail Activities: Fishing, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Walking
TrailLink ID: 6016561

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