Short Hikes in NJ

Trail maps, photos, videos, and info for some trails in New Jersey that are easy or short. These trails are either under 4 miles and/or easy – suitable for beginning hikers or anyone looking for an easy day hike.

These are suggested routes... it's usually very easy to trim them down into even shorter loops if you prefer.

For info on getting started hiking in NJ, check out our NJ Hiking 101 page.

Short Hikes in North NJ

• Hacklebarney State Park - Chester, NJ (3.4 miles)

• High Point State Park - Sussex County, Monument Trail Loop (3.7 miles)

• Ramapo Mountain State Forest - Ramapo Lake, (1.2 m); Van Slyke Castle (3.2 m)

• Point Mountain Reservation - Hunterdon County (3.7 miles)

Short Hikes in Central NJ

• Cheesequake State Park - Green Trail, Middlesex County (3 miles)

• Helyar Woods - at Rutgers Gardens, Middlesex County (2.5 miles)

• Musconetcong Gorge Preserve - Hunterdon County (3.1 miles)

Short Hikes in South NJ

• Parvin State Park - Salem County, South Jersey (3.3 miles)

• Maurice River Bluffs - Cumberland County, South Jersey (2.6 miles)

Suggested hiking books with popular short hikes in NJ: