Four of the Best Places to Hike in New Jersey

A student at Mercer County Community College (MCCC) in West Windsor, New Jersey, Adam Oltman Porcher is studying computer science and has performed in multiple MCCC Academic Theatre Company productions. Outside of his academic pursuits, Adam Porcher enjoys recreational endeavors such as swimming and hiking. Below are four of the best places to hike in NJ:

1. Stairway to Heaven — This 7.3-mile trail in Wawayanda State Park extends from Pochuck Valley to Pinwheel Vista, and provides one of the most stunning views in the state. It also crosses a two-mile boardwalk and suspension bridge.

2. Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area — Located in Montville, this park has more than 1,600 acres of forest, fields, wetlands, and rugged trails. Its highest point of elevation is at 934 feet, and its most prominent feature is the Tripod Rock, which is a 180-ton boulder sitting atop a trio of much smaller boulders.

3. Palisades Interstate Park — The hiking trails of Palisades Interstate Park are located along the Hudson River, and also offer scenic views of the Manhattan River. The trails are suitable for hiking and biking.

4. South Mountain Reservation — Found in West Orange, this park has 19 miles of hiking trails and more than two dozen carriage roads for horseback riding. Highlights in the reservation include the 25-foot waterfall at Hemlock Falls and the small fairy houses along Fairy Trail.