"I live in Woodbridge, NJ so I had to really give thought to driving about 40 miles for a trail that's only about 4 miles long. I'm glad that I made the trip!

The best part of this trail is the fact that most of the times you seem to be ""deep in the woods."" No car sounds and even the occasional sound of running water. I went on Labor Day and I saw about 6 hikers for every biker, so you want to watch your speed.

The trail has a few ups and downs so you can pick up some speed without meaning to. My bike speedometer had a max reading of 22 MPH. So make sure you have good brakes and know how to use them to slow down!

One of the best short asphalt trails I've ridden ...

Ray"

"Absolutely every bicyclist I’ve recommended this trail to, some from as far away as Brooklyn, NY, has reported back to me that they thoroughly enjoyed riding here. Not one would hesitate coming back again. The Loantaka Brook Reservation trail system is truly a place that no bicyclist, jogger, runner, or walker should miss visiting, even if you’re more than a hour’s drive away.

Bicyclists are restricted to using a well-maintained 4-mile long paved trail that stretches the Reservation’s entire length. Equestrians must use the expansive unpaved trail network, which includes some loops through heavily wooded areas. Pedestrians may choose to wander anyplace within the park property.

The paved trail is virtually flat from end to end. The only inclines are associated with approaches to several short bicycle/pedestrian bridges. There are two street crossings along the entire route; one of them is relatively busy and will require parents with young children to use extreme caution.

Surface conditions along the paved trail range from fair to excellent. Some segments may not be suited for comfortable in-line skating (the nearby Traction Line Recreation Trail is the best location for in-line skating). The surrounding scenery consists of thick foliage in some locations and open fields or sprawling farms in others. There is an unspoiled brook that winds its way back and forth across the trail in many spots.

As you might have guessed, this trail has so much to offer that it is extremely popular. Expect large crowds on any given good weather weekend day, and even a pretty good turnout on nice weekdays too.

A bonus: If you’re a bicyclist and don’t mind riding on local streets, the Traction Line Recreation Trail is no more than a 15 minute ride from one of this trail’s access gates (see posted trail maps within the Reservation).

Enjoy!"