12 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in New Jersey To Visit In 2024

New Jersey is home to several different hiking trails that you can take your furry friend on. Most of these hiking trails do require the dog to be leashed, though. Furthermore, many have different regulations that must be followed while you’re there.

Despite this, many dog-friendly hiking trails in New Jersey are beautiful and a great way to explore nature with your canine. Take a look below at some of the most popular trails:

The 12 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in New Jersey

1. Ramapo Valley County Reservation

• Scenic views of the lake and mountain
• Several trails to choose from
• Easy to moderate, depending on the trail
• Dogs must always be leashed

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2. Schooley’s Mountain Boulder Gorge Loop Trail

• Moderate loop trail
• Features a waterfall, boulder field, and a boardwalk
• Dogs must be kept on a leash
• Not very busy

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3. Hacklebarney Loop Trail

• Moderate difficulty
• Follows the Black River and its tributaries
• Features several hemlock forests and ravines
• Dogs are allowed whenever the trail is open

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4. Allaire Orange Trail

• Easy trail that’s popular with mountain bikers
• Trail loops through the forest
• Offers views of the Manasquan River

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5. Peaceful Partners Trail & Long Path Loop

• Located in the Black Run Nature Preserve
• Moderate loop trail
• Features pine forests, wetlands, and sand dunes
• Dogs are allowed at all times but must be leashed

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6. Sussex Branch Trail (Stanhope to Newton)

• Very long, 37 miles out-and-back
• You can hop on anywhere and turn back; completing the whole trail isn’t necessary
• Trail follows an old railroad bed
• Passes through forests, fields, and wetlands

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7. Haledon Reservoir

• Easy trail loop—only 2.5 miles long
• Bridges available for detours through the middle
• Offers scenic views of the water
• Wildlife common along the trail

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8. Sourland Mountain Trails

• Moderate to difficult trail
• Covers 9 miles of varying terrain
• Several different loops and connections to choose from
• Rocky ridges, hardwood forests, and wetlands

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9. Liberty State Park

• Easy, flat trail
• Follows the Hudson River waterfront for about 5 miles
• Enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline
• Dogs are welcome at all times but must be on a leash

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10. Windbeam Mountain

• 9-mile loop that offers challenging climbs and stunning views
• Popular with dog lovers and horses
• Offers stunning views of the Wanaque Reservoir

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11. Mills Reservation

• Easy 2.1-mile loop for all skill levels
• Trail follows a lake
• Popular trail, so expect some company
• Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times

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12. Cold Springs Bike Path

• Easy 2.7-mile trail in-and-out
• Follows an old railroad bed through a wooded area
• Includes a 40-foot bridge over a stream that can carry pedestrians and bikes
• Popular trail for bikers

Conclusion

New Jersey is home to many dog-friendly trails. You can find somewhere to walk, no matter your location or skill level. Most of these trails are completely free, though you may need a permit to camp overnight in state and federal parks.

We included exceedingly long trails with tough climbs, as well as nice strolls through parks. Hopefully, you find something fitting for you and your dog on this list.

Related Reads:

• Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Virginia You Can Visit(With Pictures)
• Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Washington

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Featured Image Credit: Jacob Thorson, Unsplash