Are you ready to explore the great outdoors? Hiking is an excellent way to get some fresh air, exercise and enjoy nature. Here are some of the best trails to explore the South Jersey region. From scenic views to challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone. Grab your gear and let’s hit the trails!
Camden County Trails
Cooper River Park
5300 N. Park Dr., Merchantville, NJ 08109
The Cooper River Park Loop is a bird and butterfly watchers dream come true. This 3.7-mile trail is home to wetland habitats, grassland areas, and an abundance of wildlife. Groups of egrets, herons, bald eagles and even raptors are regularly spotted here. The paved loop trail is an ideal route for families. On this route, you will adventure across a large playground, mini golf, a driving range and picnic areas! If you venture across the bridge to Veteran’s Island, you can take a sailing lesson at the marina, kayak in the river, or simply watch one of the many rowing competitions.
Stockton Station Park Rail Trail
590 N Dudley St., Camden, NJ 08105
The Stockton Station Rail Trail is a peaceful and paved trail that runs through city park in Camden between Westfield Avenue and Pleasant Street. This short path follows an old railroad corridor. The main route is only 0.36 miles long but there are paved sub-trails that connect to a skateboard park and then back to the main trail for an extended route. The park was once an apartment complex.
Saddler’s Woods
250 MacArthur Blvd, Haddon Township, NJ 08108
The Saddler’s Woods self-guided tree tour takes about one hour to complete. The majority of Saddler’s Woods requires full mobility, however the North-South Trail is stroller and wheelchair accessible. If you are interested in a guided tour, schedule an appointment by calling 856 869 7372 or sending an email to [email protected]!
Burlington County Trails
Batona Trail
Batona Trail, Tabernacle, NJ 08088
The Batona Trail got its name from the words “BAck TO NAture.” This 50-mile long trail crosses through New Jersey’s Pinelands National Reserve. Plants and animals that are unique to the Pinelands, can be found along the route. The trail passes through some of South Jersey’s forgotten towns like Martha, Lower Forge and Four Mile. There are several major intersections that make it easy to plan hikes of various lengths. Camping along the Batona Trail is permitted in designated campsites.
Kinkora Trail
25020 Mt Pleasant Rd, Columbus, NJ 08022
The Kinkora Trail is a 2.15 mile regional trail segment that will eventually connect the Delaware River corridor to Pemberton. This route will one day span 13 miles! You can access the park today in the Mansfield Community Park parking lot near the baseball fields. The paved trail begins at the back corner of the last baseball field.
Gloucester County Trails
Blueberry Hill Loop
Quarry by Blueberry Hill Trail, Gibbsboro, NJ 08026
Blueberry Hill Loop is a 1.4-mile out-and-back trail that typically averages 27 min to complete. This is a popular trail for road biking, running, and walking. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. This trail is accessible for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers.
Elephant Swamp Nature Trail
Monroeville Rd, Monroeville, NJ 08343
Elephant Swamp Nature Trail is a 6-mile flat hiking and biking trail on an old railroad bed. In the 1880s an escaped circus elephant disappeared into the swamp and gave the site its name. The trail passes through forests, farm fields, and lush swamps. Migrating birds frequent the trail and offer great bird-watching opportunities. You can hear frogs singing their jazzy tunes on early spring evenings in the swamp areas.
Washington Lake Park Loop
Washington Township, NJ 08080
Washington Lake Park has trails that are great for the whole family. The 2.3-mile loop trail takes an average of 43 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, running, and walking. You’re likely to enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trails are open year-round but you’ll need to leave your fur-babies at home since dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.
Salem County Trails
Riverview Beach Park
5 N Broadway, Pennsville, NJ 0807
Riverview Beach Park trails are great for the whole family. This trail is great for walking, and it’s fairly secluded. The chances you’ll encounter many other people while exploring are slim. The 1.1-mile loop trail takes an average of 19 min to complete.
Fort Mott State Park
454 Fort Mott Rd, Pennsville, NJ 08070
Fort Mott was designed after the American Civil War as part of a defense system for the Delaware River. Visitors can still wander through the old gun batteries. The ramparts seen today were made in the late 1890s. A nature interpretive trail can be found within the park. (Excellent for beginners.) There are also ample areas for biking or mountain biking.