South Jersey is home to an incredible variety of biking trails, from scenic routes along the Delaware River to quiet, hidden gems in the woods. Whether you’re a casual rider or an experienced cyclist, there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 fantastic bike trails across South Jersey that will take you through nature, history, and breathtaking views.
Delaware River Heritage Trail
- Distance: 60-mile loop
- Highlights: The Delaware River Heritage Trail offers a scenic route that traces the cultural and natural beauty of the Delaware River Estuary. The 2.8-mile segment in Burlington County connects Bordentown, Fieldsboro, and Bordentown through a mix of on-road paths and sidewalks. It’s perfect for those who enjoy both cycling and historical exploration, with many points of interest along the way.
Kinkora Trail
- Distance: 2.15 miles one way
- Highlights: This short but sweet trail runs between Mansfield Community Park and Island Road in Columbus. The trail, which begins near the baseball fields in Mansfield Community Park, is ideal for a quick ride or a leisurely afternoon bike outing. It’s a great spot for beginners or anyone looking for a less strenuous ride.
Rancocas Park
- Distance: 8 miles
- Highlights: For nature lovers, the Rancocas Park offers over 8 miles of scenic biking and hiking trails. The park is filled with wildlife and provides access to the Rancocas Creek for canoeing and fishing. There are also equestrian trails, making it a versatile outdoor space for all kinds of recreational activities. The trailhead can be accessed via Deacon Road or Rancocas Avenue.
Blueberry Hill Trail
- Distance: 0.7 miles (official), but other unofficial trails extend further
- Highlights: Blueberry Hill is part of the growing Gibbsboro Greenways system, offering a peaceful environment for both biking and hiking. The trail varies in terrain, with sections paved, gravel, or dirt. Though relatively short, the trail connects to other local paths, allowing cyclists to explore a variety of environments.
Cooper River Park
- Distance: Multiple bike trails across 346 acres
- Highlights: Cooper River Park is a vast urban park that spans Pennsauken, Cherry Hill, Collingswood, and Haddon Township. It’s a hub for recreational activities, with two designated bike trails, a cross-country course, fishing areas, picnic spots, and more. With so much to offer, it’s a great place to spend an entire day outdoors.
Newton Lake Park
- Distance: 2.43 miles
- Highlights: This scenic park stretches through Collingswood, Oaklyn, and Haddon Township. The 2.43 miles of bike paths wind through wooded areas and offer beautiful views of Newton Lake. The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds, fishing piers, and a boat ramp, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.
Chestnut Branch Park
- Distance: Varies
- Highlights: Chestnut Branch Park offers a paved path through its more than 109 acres, which include scenic trails, athletic fields, and a butterfly garden. This quiet park is a hidden gem for cyclists, walkers, and nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful ride through the countryside.
Monroe Township Bikeway
- Distance: 6.25 miles
- Highlights: The Monroe Township Bikeway runs between Williamstown and Glassboro, offering cyclists a ride along a former railroad right-of-way. The path is well-maintained and connects various communities, making it an ideal route for commuters and leisure riders alike.
Elephant Swamp Trail
- Distance: Varies
- Highlights: This trail is built on the remnants of a former railroad bed that once ran from Glassboro to Bridgeton. The northern portion of the Elephant Swamp Trail is well-maintained, offering a smooth ride through tranquil forested areas. It’s a great spot for cyclists and walkers to enjoy nature without venturing too far off the beaten path.
Parvin State Park
- Distance: 15 miles of various trails
- Highlights: Parvin State Park is a hidden gem, nestled less than five miles from Vineland. With its rich history and diverse ecosystem, the park offers 15 miles of trails perfect for biking, jogging, and hiking. It’s a great place to experience a variety of terrain, from wooded paths to open fields, and it also features two lakes for canoeing and kayaking. Whether you’re looking to spend the day or the weekend, Parvin is a beautiful and relaxing destination.
South Jersey offers a diverse range of bike trails that cater to all types of riders—from short, casual rides to long, scenic loops. Whether you’re biking along the Delaware River, through peaceful state parks, or exploring urban green spaces, these trails offer something for everyone. So, grab your bike, lace up your helmet, and get ready to explore all that South Jersey has to offer!
Tips:
Many of these trails are also suitable for walkers and hikers, so feel free to bring the whole family or a group of friends along.