The family that hikes together…that’s not a saying, but those families do have a great time. So check out these family-friendly hiking trails in South Jersey!
Cooper River Park
Pennsauken
Explore the nearly 4-mile-long trail that circles scenic Cooper River, and along the way make stops at various playgrounds, picnic areas and fields, and depending on the day, you might even catch sight of a rowing team practicing (or competing) on the river’s 2,000-meter race course.
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
Barnegat Light
Be sure to look up when visiting the more than 150-year-old Barnegat Lighthouse. Trails run along the Barnegat Bay as well as looping through the maritime forest (one of the last on Long Beach Island). Visitors can also take a break to fish in the bay, learn about the surrounding nature and coastline at an interpretive center and climb the lighthouse’s 217 steps.
Atsion Lake
Shamong
Take in the sweeping views of Atsion Lake while exploring the surrounding wetlands along a mile-and-a-half of wheelchair accessible trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, the lake also connects to a 9.4-mile trail (or a quick drive) down to Batsto Village, where even more trails await with plenty of nature and wildlife.
Palmyra Cove Nature Park
Palmyra
There’s plenty of nature to see and wildlife to learn about in Palmyra Cove Nature Park’s 250 acres. Stop by the center for educational exhibits and tours, and try out any of the 12 winding trails just steps from the river. Choose the Red Winged Blackbird Trail to look over the Dredge Retention Basin, head down the Cover Trail for a number of scenic overlooks and wander the River Trail for a sandy stroll along the Delaware River. Or, try them all!
Red Bank Battlefield Park
National Park
Walk where rebel soldiers did at the site of the 1777 Battle of Red Bank. Walking trails wind along the site, connecting landmarks like Fort Mercer and the Whitall House Museum for a stroll through history. The park also has picnic tables and playgrounds and often hosts historic events like reenactments.
Corson’s Inlet State Park
Ocean City
Corson’s Inlet State Park was established in 1969 to protect one of the last undeveloped tracts of land along the coastline. It’s a hot spot for seeing several migratory birds, and also features spots for fishing, crabbing or just relaxing in the sand.
