In search of a new way to enjoy the outdoors while social distancing? Take a hike!
Tired of walking that same loop around the block of your local park path? Looking for an outdoor activity that the whole family can enjoy? Maybe you don’t have it in you to heave those bikes up and onto the bike rack again, or you just want to give those running shoes a break. While doing your part to navigate safely through this national pandemic, take some time to drink in the splendor of summer along some of the best hiking trails our state has to offer. And why not enjoy that 45-minute drive to reach your destination? Most of us are not in a constant state of hustle and bustle these days. Though some public parks remain closed, especially in more populated areas, or high traffic environs, most have reopened and are ready to welcome visitors. The suggested hiking locations listed below are all located in the state of New Jersey, so you won’t need to worry about checking out of state guidelines.
As with any open-air public area, some of these outdoor havens may be fairly populated, so use your judgment if you pull up to a crowded parking lot. Try to plan your visit during off-peak hours, and have a plan B or C, especially if you have travelled a good distance or have the family in tow. Yet we hope to provide you with some options that are off the beaten path, so to speak, to keep you at a safe distance from others. As with any public outdoor activity you engage in during the COVID-19 pandemic, please be sure to check town, county and state regulations before heading to your destination. Also be sure to pack the essential gear, both for hiking and the pandemic to protect you and yours on your day out; sun protection, food and water, first-aid, bug spray, soap or hand sanitizer, as well as proper shoes and clothing. Make a quick checklist before you set off.
Continue to follow any CDC distancing guidelines while you’re out and consider that although some parks have waived their fees, other areas may charge for entrance or parking. Several indoor and non-passive areas are closed, including offices, campgrounds and restrooms; which means you’ll also need to pack that precious TP, along with some way to transport it out of the parks along with your other trash. The New Jersey State Department of Parks and Forests provides an up to date guide to what you can expect at different areas.
Clayton Park, Upper Freehold
Part of the Monmouth County Park system, this scenic wooded area is made up of 450 acres and nearly 6 miles of scenic trails.
Wells Mills County Park, Waretown
Located in Waretown, NJ, about a 45-minute drive from Red Bank, this Ocean County park boasts over 900 acres of forested terrain to get lost in, assuring you can safely keep your distance from other park-goers.
Perrineville Lake Trail, Millstone
While some may not consider this a true “hike,” the peaceful, more remote setting makes it an ideal spot to bring the kids for a trek along the lake.
NJ Hiking provides a comprehensive collection of our state’s best hiking trails, along with reviews, directions and trail maps. Check official government park websites for up-to-date closures.
The National Recreation and Park Association released these guidelines for trail users to follow when planning a day trip:
- Follow CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to heading to trails — wash hands, carry hand sanitizer, do not use trails if you have symptoms, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, etc.
- Observe at all times CDC’s minimum recommended physical distancing of six feet from other people. Practice it and know what it looks like. Keep it as you walk, bike or hike.
- Warn other trail users of your presence and as you pass to allow proper distance and step off trails to allow others to pass, keeping minimum recommended distances at all times. Signal your presence with your voice, bell or horn.
- Note that trail and park users may find public restrooms closed — be prepared before you leave and time outings so that you are not dependent on public restrooms.
- Bring water or drinks — public drinking fountains may be disabled and should not be used, even if operable.
- Bring a suitable trash bag. Leave no trash; take everything out to protect park workers.
- CDC Checklist for visiting parks and recreation facilities.
