Karate Monkey
Well-Known Member
As promised, the goldenrod is juuuuust beginning to bloom around Sandy Hook. In a week or so/next big rain, there will be a sea of yellow all along the dunes/sandy areas.
Your Favorite Long, Beginner Friendly NJ Trails
- Thread starter MSH
- Start date
As promised, the goldenrod is juuuuust beginning to bloom around Sandy Hook. In a week or so/next big rain, there will be a sea of yellow all along the dunes/sandy areas.
About to head there this weekend based on your initial recommendation! Any recommendations on where to park and which way to ride the path?
Karate Monkey
Well-Known Member
Personally: park at Ft Hancock (either the picnic area at the fork, or follow signs for the lighthouse/visitor center); ride out/around the north lot (Nine Gun Battery), then head south down the island, following the MUP. You can take the road/walk up and over the bridge, then go down the first turn off on the northbound side into Highlands. Follow the street closest to the highway until it dead ends into Popamora Point. Ride up to Atlantic Highlands, then turn around and head back.
You can turn around at any point, of course, and modify where you park based on the wind direction (ie, you want a tailwind on the way back). The fisherman's lot at the Sandy Hook gate is not always open, though. The roads though the Ft Hancock area are a good way to explore add miles without worrying about being run over.
You will almost certainly want to pack a wind vest/jacket, especially if the high is below 70.
thegock
Well-Known Member
A good add on to the CT is to do the 3 miles of the Ken Lockwood Gorge on the way back southwest to High Bridge (assuming you started there.) Out of Califon, go right on Hoffman's Crossing Rd, then the first left on River Rd takes you to the northeastern end of the KLG. The dirt road has a few bumps to be alert to while riding.
Also, I know two guys who actually hit the steel beams blocking vehicular traffic to the CT. One of them is recuperating from a broken scapula right now, so noobs should be warned.
Thanks again! The wife and I really enjoyed the trail!
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THATmanMANNY
Well-Known Member
I rode part of the Barnegat Branch Trail yesterday. I don't think it's scenic but it's an option for beginner/family flat trail riding.
Kerplunk105
Member
D&L canal was mentioned but there are several loops (PA & NJ) that vary in length. Most go through small, touristy towns with food and shopping.
www.fodc.org
Six Loop Trails Along the Delaware Canal – Friends of the Delaware Canal
PA’s Delaware Canal State Park and NJ’s Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park parallel the Delaware River. Travel these loop trails using six River bridges.
www.fodc.org