Whether you’re looking for a long trek in search of wildlife, an educational tour of the Pine Barrens or a quick stroll in the park, South Jersey has a hike for everyone.
For a choose your own adventure
Atco
Length: Batona Trail (28.2 mi); Batsto Fire Trail (6.2 mi); Mullica River Trail (9.4 mi out); Batsto Red Trail (0.8 mi); Tom’s Pond Trail (1.7 mi); 1808 Trail (1.6 mi)
Highlights: Historic Batsto Village boasts a dozen trails for all different hiking levels that allow you to explore the Mullica River, Batsto River, the Wharton State Forest Wetlands and more, starting from the Historic Batsto Village.
For a quick trip
Pennsauken
Length: 3.8 mile loop (Cuthbert to Rt. 130); 1.35 mile path (Cuthbert to Grove St.)
Highlights: The 346-acre park surrounds the picturesque Cooper River and features a number of playgrounds, a dog park, fishing sites, picnic areas, a softball field, the Camden County Boathouse and a sculpture garden.
For a tall trek
Cape May
Length: 199 steps up
Highlights: Climb the steps of the 66-year-old Cape May Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. And after your tall trek, explore the surrounding nature trails of Cape May Point State Park, with interpretive panels telling stories of Lighthouse Keepers, the surrounding area and the lighthouse’s history. Cost to climb the lighthouse is $12 for adults, $8 for children ages 3 to 12. Walking the grounds is free.
For a wildlife walk
Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge
Medford
Length: 3 miles of trails
Highlights: Take a leisurely stroll around the lake or embark on a longer walk into the forest to learn about the surrounding habitats with interpretive signs – grab your map from the Nature Center first. And be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife like the rare pink lady slipper and listen for the banjo-like call of the Northern green frog. Then, head to the Wildlife Housing Area to meet the refuge’s animal ambassadors.
For a tech tour
Browns Mills
Length: Lore & Legend of the Pine Barrens Tour, 60-90 minutes; Native Fruits & Superfoods Tour, 40-60 minutes
Highlights: These interactive tours, presented by the Whitesbog Preservation Trust and available on the Whitesbog: Deep in the Pines app, blend nature and technology for a unique experience exploring the Pine Barrens, with stops through cranberry bogs and sites of the Pine Barrens’ iced tea waters.
For the historic hike
Pennsville
Length: Finn’s Point Trail (0.52 mi); Paraados Trail (0.2 mi); Walking Tour (0.64 mi)
Highlights: Hike around Fort Mott State Park and stop along the trails to see historic assets of the centuries-old fort like a fire control tower, gun emplacements and a protective moat. The site also features a playground, restrooms and picnic shelters.
