NJ Appalachian Trail Guide:
Best Hikes, Access, and Tips for Hikers

Guide to the New Jersey Section of the Appalachian Trail

The New Jersey Appalachian Trail features a 74-mile stretch known for its wild beauty and easy access for local outdoor enthusiasts. It winds through leafy woodlands, rocky mountains, and peaceful wetlands, making it a favorite spot for those seeking a taste of the legendary AT close to home. Whether you're up for a laid-back stroll or a tougher climb, there’s something here for everyone—plus a good chance of spotting black bears, deer, and a mix of local wildlife along the way.

With highlights like Sunfish Pond, the Pochuck Boardwalk, and the “Stairway to Heaven,” this section attracts both seasoned adventurers and city dwellers looking for a quick escape into nature. The Appalachian Trail in New Jersey offers a diverse experience with every mile—showcasing everything that makes hiking in North Jersey special.

Overview of the NJ Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail offers a classic American hiking experience right in New Jersey’s backyard, featuring 74 miles of unforgettable paths stretching from the state’s northern tip down to its southern edge near the Delaware Water Gap. Though this section is shorter than others along the entire route, it shines with a unique blend of wild scenery, expansive vistas, and convenient access points that welcome hikers of all levels.

Where the Trail Begins and Ends

The AT enters New Jersey from New York at Abram S. Hewitt State Forest, nestled in the forested hills close to Greenwood Lake. From there, the trail meanders southward toward the Delaware River, concluding at Worthington State Forest near the iconic Delaware Water Gap. Along its path, the Appalachian Trail hugs New Jersey’s northern border, giving adventurers a chance to explore both remote wilderness and areas near charming New Jersey trail towns.

For detailed maps and information on starting and ending points, be sure to visit the official Appalachian Trail map.

Distance, Elevation, and Section Hike Options

Covering around 74 miles, the New Jersey AT packs plenty of variety into its stretch. Elevation ranges from about 350 feet up to 1,803 feet at its highest peaks, providing a balanced mix of gentle slopes and some challenging climbs. This variety keeps things invigorating whether you’re tackling the full route in a thru-hike or opting for a shorter section hike.

The trail’s proximity to several highways and country roads allows easy access points and nearby parking, making it simple for hikers to hop on or off. Whether you want a multi-day adventure or a quick day hike, the accessible trailheads and parking areas offer flexible options to suit your plans.

Distinctive Landscapes

Hiking this part of the Appalachian Trail is like a journey through some of New Jersey’s most beautiful outdoor landscapes. The path guides you across boardwalks spanning peaceful, scenic marshy areas and wetlands teeming with diverse wildlife. You’ll also encounter rocky ridges that open to breathtaking views and shady hardwood forests alive with the sounds of local creatures.

Along the way, you’ll experience:

  • Rocky outcrops and ridges offering sweeping panoramas
  • Serene bogs and lush wetlands rich in birds and frogs
  • Dense hardwood forests vibrant with wildlife activity

Elevation changes frequently, so expect a mix of easy, flat sections and shorter, steeper climbs. For a helpful overview of terrain and trail segments, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy provides detailed descriptions specific to this New Jersey section.

Trail Markings and Maintenance

The trail is marked by classic white blazes painted on trees, rocks, and posts, helping hikers stay on course through diverse terrain. Optional side trails and connectors use blue blazes, but the main Appalachian Trail consistently features white blazes.

Volunteer groups like the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference dedicate countless hours each year to maintaining the trail—clearing brush, repairing bridges, and keeping campsites clean. Regular patrols address downed trees and trail wear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

For further details on the park at the trail’s northern end, check out the Abram S. Hewitt State Forest page for info on trails and amenities.

Fast Facts Table

FeatureDetailsTotal Trail Length74 milesElevation Range350 feet – 1,803 feetNorthern TerminusAbram S. Hewitt State ForestSouthern TerminusWorthington State ForestTypical Thru-Hike Time3 to 4 daysKey FeaturesBogs, scenic marshy area, boardwalks, rocky ridges, hardwood forestsMarkingsWhite blazes for main trail

Exploring the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey rewards hiking enthusiasts with diverse terrain, accessible section hikes, and stunning vistas that inspire repeat visits. Its blend of natural beauty and convenient access points near parking and New Jersey trail towns make it a favorite for both casual walkers and thru-hikers alike.

Best Times and How to Access the NJ Appalachian Trail

Planning your trip on the Appalachian Trail through New Jersey means setting yourself up for the best possible hike. Knowing when to go and how to prepare are key steps for enjoying quiet woods, scenic lakes, and rolling ridges without the crowds or sticky heat. The right timing, smart access tips, and a few safety habits will make your experience smoother and more rewarding.

Optimal Hiking Seasons: When to Hit the Trail

New Jersey’s portion of the Appalachian Trail shines brightest in late spring and early fall. Late April through June brings fresh green leaves, cool breezes, and wildflowers along the path. The weather is usually mild and the bugs are less of a hassle. If you love vivid colors, plan a visit in September through October, when fall foliage transforms the mountains into a patchwork of reds and golds. Humidity drops, the air turns crisp, and you’re far less likely to run into summer crowds.

  • Spring (late April - June): Cooler air, wildflowers, fewer mosquitoes.
  • Fall (September - October): Stunning leaves, dry trail conditions, perfect temperatures.

Summer months (July and August) often bring heat, humidity, and mosquitoes. While the trail is open in winter, snow and ice can make hiking much tougher. For more advice on seasonal trail conditions, the Best times to day hike page offers solid tips.

Accessing the Trail: Maps, Entry Points, and Trail Markers

Access to the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey is straightforward, with well-marked highways, state parks, and public parking located along its route. Printed trail maps are available at ranger stations, park offices, or nearby visitor centers—ideal if you prefer something physical to carry. Online tools like the NJHiking.com Hike Finder Map also help you pinpoint your starting point.

Trail entry points are clearly marked, often featuring kiosks with current route information, weather updates, and parking guidance. It’s a good idea to take a photo of any large posted maps. Popular access spots include:

  • Abram S. Hewitt State Forest (northern end)
  • High Point State Park
  • Worthington State Forest (southern end)
  • Pochuck Boardwalk (easy access and parking)

On the Trail: Following Blazes and Recognizing Direction Changes

Once you’re on the Appalachian Trail, keep an eye out for the distinctive white blazes. These markings appear on trees, rocks, or trail posts, spaced to keep you headed in the right direction even where the path twists or forks. When the AT follows a road or at trail intersections, two white blazes stacked vertically indicate a change of direction. An offset blaze—left or right—signals which way to turn.

Key points to remember:

  • White blazes = main Appalachian Trail
  • Blue blazes = side or access trails
  • Double blazes warn of upcoming direction changes or complex intersections

Safety Tips: Bears, Food, and General Awareness

Hiking in New Jersey is safe with the right habits, especially when considering the local black bears. Although these bears tend to be shy, practicing good bear safety is essential:

  • Store food in a bear canister or hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from tree trunks at designated sites.
  • Never leave snacks or trash behind; always pack out what you bring.
  • If you encounter a bear, remain calm, speak firmly, and give it plenty of space.

Along with wildlife etiquette, stay on marked paths, check the weather before heading out, and let someone know your hiking plan.

Top Day Hikes on the NJ Appalachian Trail

New Jersey’s section of the Appalachian Trail showcases some of the East Coast’s most popular and rewarding day hikes. Whether you seek sweeping ridge vistas, serene wetlands, or challenging rocky climbs, the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey offers trails suited to every hiking style and skill level. Below is a guide to some can't-miss day hikes complete with trail highlights, parking tips, and easy directions to help you make the most of your time on the path.

Wawayanda State Park: Pinwheel’s Vista and Wawayanda Mountain

Pinwheel’s Vista in Wawayanda State Park is a classic challenge with rewarding views. This out-and-back hike covers about 9 miles round-trip and includes moderate to strenuous sections. Known for its steep elevation gain, rocky switchbacks, and panoramic outlooks, the journey begins at the Appalachian Trail parking lot just off Route 94 in Vernon. Follow the white blazes marking the AT as you travel through leafy forests and cross open farm fields before arriving at Pinwheel’s Vista—a stunning overlook that captures Vernon Valley and the distant Catskills.

  • Trailhead parking: Route 94 parking lot, GPS: 41.236143, -74.464699
  • Highlights: 900-foot climb, rocky “Stairway to Heaven” steps, long-range views over northern New Jersey
  • Directions: Starting from the lot, follow the white-blazed trail, crossing a boardwalk and climbing steep switchbacks to reach the viewpoint.
  • For photos and hiker feedback, visit the Pinwheel Vista via Appalachian Trail route.

For a shorter but equally scenic hike, try Wawayanda Mountain’s 6-mile route. This trail travels over ancient rocky outcrops and meanders through shaded forests, often dotted with wild blueberries during summer. Access to this trail can be from Route 94 or inside Wawayanda State Park depending on your chosen path. Continuing beyond the vista leads you deeper into tranquil woodland before looping back.

  • Pro tip: After rain, small streams and bog bridges demand careful crossing. The summit provides some of the best in-state views along the Appalachian Trail.
  • Additional parking details can be found in the Wawayanda Mountain overview.

Stairway to Heaven: Pochuck Valley to Pinwheel Vista

The Stairway to Heaven hike is among the most talked-about sections of the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey. Covering approximately 7.3 miles round trip, it begins in the open wetlands of Pochuck Valley, winds through forested areas, and ascends the famous stone steps known as the “Stairway to Heaven” on Wawayanda Mountain. This climb culminates at Pinwheel Vista, a breathtaking panoramic overlook.

  • Trail starts at Pochuck Boardwalk parking (154 Route 517, Vernon, NJ) or the main Route 94 AT lot for direct access to the climb.
  • Parking coordinates: 41.236143, -74.464699 (Route 94) and 41.234733, -74.480867 (Route 517)
  • Highlights:
    • The initial miles cross the unique Pochuck Boardwalk—a wooden trail winding over marshes and streams, featuring a suspension bridge.
    • After fields and road crossings, prepare for the steep rock slab steps leading up to the vista.
    • The final overlook offers sweeping views and draws crowds, especially during fall foliage season.
  • This hike also offers its own brand of trail magic, often aided by trail angels who support hikers along the way.
  • Find a trail guide, maps, and photos at Stairway to Heaven: Pochuck Valley to Pinwheel Vista.

Wallkill River Area and Liberty Loop Trail

If you enjoy tranquil walks or hiking with family, the Wallkill River Area and Liberty Loop Trail is an ideal option. This flat, 2.75-mile loop is easy and accessible, perfect for hikers of all levels. The path follows the marshy edges of the Wallkill River and threads through fields and wetlands, sometimes crossing state lines. The area includes a wildlife reserve known for its strong birding opportunities—bring binoculars to spot bald eagles, herons, and other species.

  • Trailhead: Oil City Road parking lot (north of Pine Island, NY)
  • Dogs must be leashed and are allowed only on Liberty Loop Trail segments accessed from Oil City Road or Owens Station Road.
  • Features include:
    • Observation platforms for wildlife viewing
    • Informational kiosks and rest benches
    • Family-friendly routes without major elevation changes
  • Learn more about parking, trail access, and pet policies at the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge trails page.

Sunrise Mountain, High Point Monument, and Culver Fire Tower

For some of the highest and most panoramic sections of the Appalachian Trail, consider the Sunrise Mountain ascent in Stokes State Forest. This hike stretches about 4.9 miles one way, traversing open ridges dotted with seasonal wildflowers and offering scenic viewpoints throughout.

  • Start at Sunrise Mountain Road parking (N41.20292° W74.77338°)
  • Key highlights:
    • Sunrise Mountain Summit, featuring a stone pavilion shelter known as a popular sunrise and sunset spot
    • A forest access road allows partial drives up, with multiple trailheads available
    • Nearby Culver Fire Tower offers expansive views reaching into three states on clear days
  • Parking for the fire tower can be found at Culver’s Gap Parking Lot (N41.18006° W74.78786°). Combining both hikes makes for an epic ridge walk.
  • Step-by-step directions and trail details are available at the Sunrise Mountain & Culver Fire Tower hike guide.

Bird, Blue, and Rattlesnake Mountains

For seasoned hikers seeking a tougher adventure, the Bird, Blue, and Rattlesnake Mountains route is an 11-mile trek through some of the Appalachian Trail’s most rugged terrain. This wild traverse crosses rocky ridges and dense forests, offering a backcountry experience away from crowded paths.

  • Out-and-back or shuttle options recommended due to length and remote parking.
  • Best parking is near Walpack Center at the end of Flatbrook-Stillwater Road; watch for trailhead signs, as GPS may direct you on rough roads.
  • Expect challenging footing, steep climbs, and limited water sources on sections.
  • This route offers:
    • Lower hiker traffic and a true wilderness feel
    • Frequent sightings of deer, wild turkey, and occasionally black bears
    • Spectacular ledge and valley views, best early or late in the day

Sunfish Pond and Mount Mohican

Complete your Appalachian Trail exploration in New Jersey with a visit to Sunfish Pond and Mount Mohican, located in Worthington State Forest near the Delaware Water Gap. Known as the “jewel of the AT” in the state, Sunfish Pond is a glacier-crafted lake nestled among rolling hills. The 7-mile round-trip hike from the Kittatinny Point Information Center follows the Dunnfield Creek Trail up to the ridge, then joins the AT for majestic overlooks above the pond, with an optional extension to Mount Mohican.

  • Parking: Kittatinny Point Visitor Center off I-80, follow Appalachian Trail/Dunnfield Creek signs
  • Trail highlights:
    • Boardwalks and bridges spanning Dunnfield Creek
    • Boulder fields and fern-covered climbs
    • Stunning views from Mount Mohican’s ledges and along the lakeshore
  • Parking fills quickly on weekend mornings; heed posted signs for day hiker parking and trail access.

Each of these hikes captures the essence of what makes the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey special: expansive views, serene natural settings, and easy access to the outdoors. Whether you're out for a morning stroll or a full day on the trail, these routes promise memorable hiking adventures.

The New Jersey Appalachian Trail offers a rare combination of adventure, quick access, and genuine wilderness right in your backyard. Its diverse hikes make it easy for anyone to find a route that suits them—whether you prefer a short boardwalk stroll, a steep climb, or a deep woods escape. These trails provide stunning scenery and rewarding challenges within a compact, well-marked area.

By choosing the right season and practicing safe hiking, you can fully enjoy all the natural beauty without concern. Always respect wildlife, follow posted guidelines, and leave the trail as you found it for the next hikers. This section of the Appalachian Trail is a true gem for both new and experienced adventurers, offering a convenient way to connect with nature and discover something fresh with every visit.