John Clyde Memorial Native Grassland Preserve
An interesting combo of forest, fields, and grasslands.
Central NJ Hikes
All hike guides for central New Jersey which includes areas such as Sourland Mountain, Cheesequake State Park, Baldpate Mountain, and Hartshorne Woods.
We consider this roughly the area between Route 78 and Route 195 but what constitutes “central” is subjective (and for some is an existential debate…). Listed by last updated.
Also check out Best Hikes in Central NJ for a curated collection or Hiking in NJ for the master list of every hike guide on the site.
Merrill Creek Reservoir
Hike around Merrill Creek Reservoir for views of the water with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Baldpate Mountain – Ted Stiles Preserve
Hike that includes a view towards the Delaware River and passes a few old farm buildings.
Helyar Woods at Rutgers Gardens
A small section of woods adjacent to Rutgers Gardens and Westons Mill Pond.
Mercer County Park
Easy trail that skirts the edge of Lake Mercer, travels through woods and along fields and streams.
Cheesequake – White Trail and Arrowsmith
Short hike with a butterfly garden plus a side trip for viewpoints over pretty marshland.
John A. Phillips Preserve
Small county park with a very nice trail system through a pine forest with several short, easy loops – or combine all for a 5.0 mile hike.
Goat Hill Overlook
Easy hike to a fantastic view over the Delaware River, Lambertville, NJ and New Hope, PA.
Institute Woods, Rogers Refuge, Princeton Battlefield
Wander easy trails, cross a swinging bridge, do some birding, and explore a Revolutionary War battlefield.
Rutgers Ecological Preserve
Small parcel of old growth forest with a network of easy, scenic trails near Rutgers New Brunswick campus.
Thompson Park – Monmouth County
Hike through fields and forest around Swimming River Reservoir and Marlu Lake in Monmouth County.
Cheesequake State Park – Green Trail
Pleasant hike over rolling hills and through beautiful marshlands with the assistance of numerous boardwalks.