A Guide to Top Cross Country Skiing Locations in NJ

This is a sport that requires little in the way of athletic skills --- just a desire the get outdoors in the winter to enjoy nature with a beautiful snowy landscape, and for a healthy aerobic exercise.

In comparison to downhill skiing cross-country is safer and much less expensive. Lift tickets are not needed and the equipment is less expensive.

Compared to the few downhill ski resorts in New Jersey, cross-country skiing is readily available in your neighborhood or at least in one of your local county and state parks.

Ideal Conditions.
Ideal conditions for cross country skiing occur after a series snowfalls with an accumulated base of 12 inches or more when most rocks, logs and stumps are covered. Long periods of below freezing temperatures are ideal for freezing over of streams and lakes for easy and uninterrupted runs.

Dress in layers
Dress in several lighter layers which can be removed or added as needed. As you warm up, you will feel the need to shed some layers. On the outside, a parka, jacket, or windbreaker are for protection from the cold wind. Underneath, wear a layer or more of insulated clothing such as a wool sweater, fleece jacket, or a fleece vest.

How to Get Started
The best way to learn how to cross-country ski is to take a lesson from a qualified instructor and then practice your new skills on groomed trails. Many of the locations listed below have arrangements with on-site ski instructors. As you gain experience and confidence you can venture off to more challenging trails.

Best Cross Country Skiing Trails in Northern New Jersey

The Blue Mountain Lakes
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Flatbrook-Stillwater Road atop the Kittatinny Ridge
Sussex, NJ
Discover the ultimate winter adventure with cross-country skiing at Blue Mountain Lakes in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. This pristine destination offers miles of tranquil forest trails, rolling ridges, and breathtaking lake views, making it one of New Jersey's premier spots for Nordic skiing. Glide through peaceful pine forests and open ridges with panoramic vistas of the Delaware Water Gap. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned skier, the gentle slopes and varied terrain provide an enjoyable experience for everyone.Embrace the crisp winter air and explore the Kittatinny Ridge's snow covered trails for an unforgettable day of cross-country skiing. With its combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and outdoor recreation, Blue Mountain Lakes is a must visit destination for winter sports lovers in the Northeast.

Columbia Trail
West Valley Brook Road
Long Valley, NJ
Starting at West Valley Brook Road, this scenic 16.5-mile rail-trail offers a peaceful winter escape with its flat, wide paths perfect for skiers of all levels. Surrounded by snow-covered woods, bridges, and farmland, the Columbia Trail provides a serene backdrop along the South Branch of the Raritan River. Whether you’re seeking a quiet glide through nature or a family-friendly outdoor adventure, this trail delivers an unforgettable skiing experience in Morris County.

High Point XC Ski Center
1480, Rt. 23
Sussex, NJ  07461
This is the best area for cross country skiing in New Jersey The resort is New Jersey's only full service center dedicated to Cross country skiing with trails groomed for skate and classic skiing. Their snow making equipment covers three loops. At over 1600 feet in elevation, High Point gets the most natural snow of all the areas in Northern NJ and the NYC Metropolitan area. For those without equipment, they have cross country ski and snowshoe half day and full day rentals. They also offer group and private lesson for children five years and older, adults, and seniors.
The ski season is from December 1st to April 1st, depending on weather and snow conditions.

Palisades Interstate Park -- NJ Section
State Line Lookout
Alpine, NJ

Nestled atop the Palisades Cliffs at 520 feet, this scenic destination offers over five miles of groomed ski trails winding through breathtaking winter landscapes. With panoramic views of the Hudson River and access to historic sites like the State Line Café, visitors enjoy both outdoor adventure and cultural charm. Perfect for beginners and seasoned skiers alike, State Line Lookout provides a serene escape just minutes from New York City

South Mountain Reservation
West Orange, NJ
A scenic 2,000+ acre nature preserve nestled in the Watchung Mountains. With miles of wooded trails, open meadows, and breathtaking views of New York City from the eastern ridge, this Essex County gem offers the perfect winter escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned skier, South Mountain Reservation provides a serene setting for skiing adventures, complete with natural landmarks like Hemlock Falls and easy access from surrounding towns

Voorhees State Park
251 County Road Route 513
Glen Gardner, NJ
Experience the beauty of winter at Voorhees State Park where cross-country skiing enthusiasts can glide through scenic trails surrounded by rolling hills, hardwood forests, and panoramic views of the New Jersey Skylands. Perfect for beginners and seasoned skiers alike, the park offers a peaceful, family-friendly setting to enjoy fresh air, exercise, and breathtaking snowy landscapes

Wawayanda State Park
Bearfort Ridge
885 Warwick Turnpike
Hewitt, NJ
At an elevation of 1,140 feet above sea level, Wawayanda State Park is an area with one of the highest snowfall accumulations in NJ. The eastern part of the park. The woods roads are fairly level and excellent for seasonal cross-country skiing.
For Beginners: Take snow covered bike path off the main road, towards the Ranger station parking lot, then right onto Old Wawayanda Road., then onto the Hofferlin Trail and back to the Ranger Station.
For more experienced skiers: Begin at the interior beach parking lot, proceed east along the perimeter of the lake. Ski past the boat house to the main dam. Veer right to the Wing Dam trail over the second dam and waterfall. Continue on until you come to a steep hill that can be taken by traversing up the trail. At the top of the hill, stay on the left. this is a a short strip that is best taken by experts. Head down to the Laurel Pond Trail, making a left turn for a gentle downhill ski. Turn left at the old furnace to head back to the beach parking lot. Before venturing out, contact the park office for trail conditions and access points.

Best Cross Country Skiing Trails in Central New Jersey

Duke Farms
1112 Duke Parkway West
Hillsborough, N.J
Nestled in the heart of Somerset County, Duke Farms offers miles of scenic trails perfect for winter recreation. Glide through peaceful woodlands, open meadows, and along frozen lakes while experiencing one of New Jersey’s premier destinations for outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned skier, Duke Farms provides a serene environment to enjoy nature, stay active, and explore the estate’s breathtaking landscapes. Conveniently situated near Princeton and Somerville, this Hillsborough gem is an ideal spot for families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers seeking a memorable winter escape.

Thompson Park
805 Newman Springs Road, (Route 520)
Lincroft, NJ
This 667-acre Monmouth County gem offers scenic trails perfect for skiing enthusiasts of all levels. With rolling landscapes, wooded paths, and open fields, Thompson Park transforms into a winter wonderland where visitors can glide across miles of snow-covered terrain. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a peaceful outing or an experienced skier seeking a challenging workout, Thompson Park provides the ideal setting for outdoor winter recreation close to home

Washington Crossing State Park
355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Rd.,
Titusville, NJ
Washington Crossing State Park offers an unforgettable cross-country skiing experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. With over 15 miles of groomed trails winding through woodlands, meadows, and historic Revolutionary War sites, skiers can enjoy both natural beauty and cultural heritage while gliding across the snow. This popular New Jersey cross-country skiing destination provides a peaceful alternative to downhill resorts, making it ideal for families, beginners, and seasoned skiers alike. Trails vary from gentle paths perfect for newcomers to more challenging routes for experienced adventurers. The park also hosts seasonal clinics and guided programs that teach skiing techniques, equipment selection, and winter safety.

Best Cross Country Skiing Trails in Central New Jersey

The Batona Trail
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest
Highway Route 72 East
Woodland Township, NJ
This Pine Barrens gem offers serene winter landscapes, well-marked trails, and a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts. This 93-mile trail winds through cedar swamps, cranberry bogs, and pitch pine forests, creating a picturesque backdrop for skiers of all skill levels. The Batona Trail is marked with distinctive pink blazes, making navigation easy even in snowy conditions. Skiers can enjoy long stretches of quiet forest, gentle terrain, and the unique ecology of one of the state's largest protected forests, spanning over 37,000 acres

Palmyra Cove Nature Park    
1335 Rte 73
Palmyra, NJ
Palmyra Cove Nature Park transforms into a serene winter wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing enthusiasts of all levels. Nestled along the Delaware River, this 250-acre nature preserve offers miles of flat and gently rolling trails, making it an ideal destination for beginners, families, and seasoned skiers seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure.
Glide through snow-covered meadows, wetlands, and wooded paths while spotting winter wildlife such as deer, foxes, and migratory birds. The park’s diverse ecosystems create a unique skiing experience that blends recreation with nature exploration.
With gentle terrain and wide-open spaces, the park is welcoming for families introducing children to skiing. It’s also a great spot for couples or solo adventurers looking for a quiet escape. The best skiing occurs after a 12-inch snowfall base, when trails are fully covered and obstacles like rocks or stumps are hidden beneath the snow