Appalachian Trail, New Jersey Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey, where scenic vistas, diverse wildlife, and outdoor adventure await along 72 miles of breathtaking trails.

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Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail in New Jersey offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Stretching over 72 miles, this section of the trail provides hikers with scenic views of rolling hills, dense forests, and tranquil lakes. As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter diverse wildlife and lush vegetation, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. One of the highlights of the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey is the breathtaking vistas from the top of the Kittatinny Ridge. This ridge, part of the larger Appalachian Mountain range, offers panoramic views that are especially striking during the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange. The trail also passes through the Delaware Water Gap, a stunning natural formation where the Delaware River cuts through a large ridge of the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual walker, the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey has something for everyone. There are numerous access points and trailheads, making it easy to plan day hikes or longer backpacking trips. Along the way, you'll find shelters and campsites, providing a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a night under the stars.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Appalachian Trail.

Visit in the fall for the most stunning foliage views.
Check weather conditions before you go; the trail can be challenging during wet or icy periods.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking longer sections.
Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the rocky and uneven terrain.
Consider using trekking poles for added stability, particularly on steep inclines.
Familiarize yourself with the trail map and markers to stay on the right path.
Watch out for wildlife and be respectful of their natural habitat.
Leave no trace; carry out all trash and be mindful of the environment.

Explore Appalachian Trail: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Appalachian Trail

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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Explore Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area - a natural paradise for hiking, fishing, and family adventures in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

4.7

Mountain Creek Resort

Discover year-round fun at Mountain Creek Resort, where skiing, snowboarding, and thrilling water activities await adventurers of all ages in New Jersey.

4.2

Palisades Interstate Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and historical significance of Palisades Interstate Park, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts near the Hudson River.

4.6

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, a premier destination for birdwatching and hiking in Pennsylvania's pristine landscapes.

4.8

Best landmarks in Appalachian Trail

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Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a paradise for nature lovers and explorers.

4.7

Palisades Interstate Park

Explore the scenic Palisades Interstate Park, where breathtaking views, diverse trails, and rich history await nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

4.6

High Point State Park

Explore the breathtaking views and diverse outdoor activities at High Point State Park, New Jersey's highest natural wonder.

4.7

Mt Tammany Red Dot Trail

Experience the breathtaking views and challenging trails of Mt Tammany Red Dot Trail in New Jersey's Kittatinny Region, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

4.8

Best restaurants in Appalachian Trail

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Cuban Pete's

Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Cuban Pete's in Montclair - where vibrant flavors meet festive ambiance.

4.1

Clinton Station Diner

Experience classic American comfort food at Clinton Station Diner in Clinton, NJ - perfect for breakfast lovers and casual diners alike.

4.2

Hot Dog Johnny's

Experience authentic American street food at Hot Dog Johnny's - where every bite is a taste of tradition in beautiful Belvidere.

4.5

Prospector's Steakhouse & Saloon

Discover flavorful steaks and lively entertainment at Prospector's Steakhouse & Saloon in Mt. Laurel Township - where every meal is an adventure.

4.2

Best bars in Appalachian Trail

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Hot Dog Johnny's

Experience the iconic flavors of Hot Dog Johnny's, a beloved hot dog stand in Belvidere, New Jersey, offering delicious meals in a charming setting.

4.5

Millworks

Discover Millworks in Harrisburg: Where Culinary Excellence Meets Artistic Innovation in a Unique Brewery Setting.

4.7

Martell's Tiki Bar

Discover the tropical oasis of Martell's Tiki Bar, a vibrant beachside destination serving cocktails and delicious food in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ.

4.1

Brick House Tavern + Tap

Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at Brick House Tavern + Tap, a South Plainfield favorite for locals and tourists alike.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Appalachian Trail

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46 Lounge

Discover the lively atmosphere of 46 Lounge in Totowa, NJ, where nightlife meets exquisite dining and unforgettable memories await.

4.0

QXT's Night Club

Dive into the ultimate nightlife experience at QXT's Night Club, where live music, karaoke, and a vibrant bar await in Newark, NJ.

4.6

HQ2 Nightclub at Ocean Casino Resort

Experience the pulsating nightlife at HQ2 Nightclub, Atlantic City's hottest dance venue, featuring world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere.

3.2

Mandala

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Mandala, a must-visit night club in Passaic, NJ, blending dining, dancing, and entertainment in one lively venue.

4.1

Best shops in Appalachian Trail

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Factory Antique Mall

Explore Factory Antique Mall, a vast antique haven in Verona, Virginia, featuring thousands of unique treasures waiting to be discovered.

4.6

Appalachian Trail Boardwalk

Discover the Appalachian Trail Boardwalk: a serene hiking experience in Glenwood, NJ, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike.

4.8

Heaven Hill Farm Garden Center and Farm Market

Explore Heaven Hill Farm Garden Center: A perfect blend of nature, gourmet delights, and seasonal festivities in New Jersey.

4.4

MyUnique Thrift

Explore MyUnique Thrift in Union, NJ for amazing vintage finds, unbeatable bargains, and a taste of local culture in every corner.

3.6

Explore Appalachian Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Appalachian Trail, mapped for you.

Appalachian Trail Essentials

The Appalachian Trail in New Jersey is accessible from various entry points along its route, from the Delaware Water Gap in the south to High Point State Park in the north. The nearest major airports are Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE). From these airports, you can rent a car or take public transport to reach trailheads. Major highways like I-80 and Route 206 offer convenient access points to the trail.
While public transport options directly to the trail are limited, renting a car is the most convenient way to reach various trailheads. NJ Transit provides bus and train services to nearby towns like Delaware Water Gap, but you may need a taxi or rideshare service to get from these towns to the actual trailheads. Parking is available at many trail entry points but can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at gas stations, restaurants, and stores near the trail. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, particularly if you plan to visit rural areas or small towns. ATMs are available in nearby towns like Blairstown and Vernon.
The Appalachian Trail in New Jersey is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid hiking alone, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. Some areas, particularly urban outskirts, may have higher crime rates. It is advisable to stay on marked trails and avoid wandering into unknown areas. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Emergency services are available, but response times can vary depending on your location on the trail. It is advisable to carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid procedures. Mobile phone coverage can be spotty, so consider carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite phone. Ranger stations and visitor centers, like those at High Point State Park and Delaware Water Gap, can also provide assistance.
Fashion: Do wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots and weather-appropriate clothing. Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops. Religion: The trail does not have specific religious customs, but respect any local traditions you may encounter. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using local buses or trains. Don’t leave trash or belongings behind. Greetings: Do greet fellow hikers with a friendly nod or 'hello.' Hiking etiquette is to yield to uphill hikers and step aside for faster hikers. Eating & Drinking: Do pack out all trash and food waste. Don’t feed wildlife, as it disrupts their natural habits.
To experience the Appalachian Trail like a local, visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Connect with local hiking groups or forums for insider tips on less-known scenic spots. High Point State Park offers some of the best views in the state. Visit local diners and general stores in nearby towns for a taste of local hospitality and cuisine. Carry a trail map and a guidebook specific to the New Jersey section for a richer experience.

When is the best time to visit Appalachian Trail?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Appalachian Trail

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Appalachian Trail. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
- Thank youThank ya
  [thank yuh]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dun me/my bad]
- How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
- Fine. And you?Doin' well. And you?
  [doin' well. and yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI ain't catchin' ya
  [I aint catch-in yuh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI reckon I'll take a look at the menu
  [I reckon I'll take a look at the menu]
- I don't eat meatI ain't no meat-eater
  [I aint no meat-eater]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bot-ums up]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll settle up now, please
  [I reckon I'll settle up now, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Git out!
  [git out!]
- Call the Police!Ring the Sheriff!
  [ring the sheriff!]
- Call a doctor!Fetch a doc!
  [fetch a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin' poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll grab...
  [I reckon I'll grab...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin']
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [whats the dam-age]
- That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [that's steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya come down on the price?
  [can ya come down on the price?]
- What time is it?What's the hour?
  [whats the hour?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest'day]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrer
  [tom-or-er]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's... at?
  [Where's... at?]
- What's the address?What's the street?
  [What's the street?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [Can ya point it out (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [A pass (to ....)]

History of Appalachian Trail

Long before European settlers arrived, the Appalachian Trail area in New Jersey was inhabited by the Lenape people. They were skilled hunters, fishers, and farmers, and their trails and paths were some of the precursors to the modern-day Appalachian Trail. The Lenape had a rich culture and a deep spiritual connection to the land, which is still evident in some of the artifacts and place names found along the trail.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, European settlers began to move into the area that is now New Jersey. The Appalachian Trail corridor saw its fair share of colonial activity. Many settlers established farms and small communities, often displacing the native Lenape. The trail passes through several historic sites from this period, including old homesteads and remnants of colonial infrastructure.
The Appalachian Trail in New Jersey runs through areas that played significant roles during the American Revolutionary War. Notably, the area around High Point State Park was a strategic location for both the British and American forces. General George Washington's troops moved through this region, and several skirmishes and battles took place here. The trail offers hikers a chance to walk in the footsteps of history, with several markers and interpretive signs detailing these events.
In the 19th century, the Appalachian region of New Jersey saw a boom in iron mining and related industries. The trail passes near several old iron mines and furnaces, which were once bustling centers of activity. The remnants of these industrial sites can still be explored today, offering a glimpse into the region's industrious past.
The Appalachian Trail itself was conceived in the early 20th century by Benton MacKaye as a means to connect people with nature. New Jersey's section of the trail was one of the earlier portions to be developed, with significant contributions from local hiking clubs and conservationists. The trail officially opened in 1937, and has since become a beloved path for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
High Point State Park, located near the northern terminus of New Jersey's Appalachian Trail section, is home to the highest elevation in the state. The park was established in the 1920s, and its iconic High Point Monument—dedicated to war veterans—was completed in 1930. The monument offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hikers and history buffs alike.
Throughout the late 20th and early 21st centuries, there have been numerous efforts to conserve and protect the natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey. Organizations like the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and local groups have worked tirelessly to maintain the trail, prevent overdevelopment, and protect the diverse ecosystems found along its path. These efforts ensure that the trail remains a pristine and inviting destination for future generations.