Search a hike or location

search
Best river hikes in New Jersey
Share:

Best river hikes in New Jersey

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in New Jersey.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Batona Trail

Burlington County, New Jersey · star 4.3 (15) · 84.9 km · Est. 4 days

2

Medium

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - High Point To Fox Gap

Sussex County, New Jersey · star 4.7 (15) · 76.2 km · Est. 5 days

3

Easy

Delaware and Raritan Canal Trail

Hunterdon County, New Jersey · star 4.8 (8) · 113.7 km · Est. 6 days

4

Easy

Overpeck Park Loop

Bergen County, New Jersey · star 4.3 (23) · 3.2 km · Est. 40 min

5

Easy

Hoboken Newport Walkway – Hudson River Waterfront Walkway

Hudson County, New Jersey · star 4.3 (20) · 13.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 50 min

6

Easy

Bonnabel Nature Park

Bergen County, New Jersey · star 4.7 (38) · 4.4 km · Est. 58 min

7

Easy

Raritan River

Middlesex County, New Jersey · star 4.3 (18) · 1.0 km · Est. 12 min

8

Easy

Henry Hudson Drive - Hudson River

Bergen County, New Jersey · star 4.6 (32) · 19.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 18 min

9

Easy

Mullica River - Batona Loop Trail

Burlington County, New Jersey · star 4.5 (42) · 20.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 18 min

10

Difficult

Mount Tammany Loop

Warren County, New Jersey · star 4.4 (34) · 5.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 46 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for river hikes in New Jersey

Garrett Hale avatar

Batona Trail

Garrett Hale · reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Hardly any wildlife for the month of May. Beautiful locations, but pine trees get old after a while

Tammy Hayes avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - High Point To Fox Gap

Tammy Hayes · reviewed almost 5 years ago

star star star star star

John Dowling avatar

Delaware and Raritan Canal Trail

Aodhan · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Shayne Beatty avatar

Overpeck Park Loop

AshGraniterover72 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Miss Mei Miller avatar

Hoboken Newport Walkway – Hudson River Waterfront Walkway

CampSprinter43 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in New Jersey

What is the climate like for hiking in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, spring and fall offer mild weather for hiking with beautiful flora and colorful foliage respectively. Summer can be hot and humid, requiring extra hydration, while winter hiking entails snow and cold temperatures. For up-to-date climate data, visit the National Weather Service's page for New Jersey (https://www.weather.gov/phi/).

Do I need a permit to hike in New Jersey?

Hiking in New Jersey generally doesn't require permits unless venturing into state park backcountry areas or camping. The New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry oversees park permits and should be contacted for inquiries. More information is available at their website (https://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/).

Is wild camping allowed in New Jersey?

Wild camping in New Jersey is generally limited to designated campgrounds within state parks, forests, and recreational areas. Some areas may require a permit. Hikers should adhere to 'Leave No Trace' principles to preserve the environment. Visit New Jersey's Division of Parks and Forestry for specifics (https://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/).

Are there mountain rescue services in New Jersey?

For emergencies in New Jersey's wilderness areas, hikers can contact local law enforcement or the park service directly. The New Jersey Search and Rescue is a volunteer organization providing services as well. It's crucial to share your hiking plans with someone before venturing out. Visit their website for more information (https://www.njsar.org/).

Are there dangerous plants in New Jersey?

New Jersey's varied landscapes offer a rich variety of flora. In the Pine Barrens, you'll find pitch pines and oak trees, while in the Highlands, deciduous forests prevail. Pay attention to the endangered swamp pink and carnivorous sundew. For more, see New Jersey Conservation Foundation's guide https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in New Jersey?

New Jersey's diverse habitats house many creatures. Watch out for deer ticks which may carry Lyme disease. Black bears reside in the northwest but rarely pose a problem. Encounter foxes, raccoons, and squirrels frequently. More details can be found on the New Jersey Wildlife website https://a-z-animals.com/blog/discover-the-official-new-jersey-state-insect/ and https://www.animalsaroundtheglobe.com/animals-in-new-jersey/

More hikes in New Jersey

by difficulty

by type

by activity