As the frost melts away in spring, South Jersey blossoms into a hiker's paradise.
The area is renowned for its lush forests, tranquil wetlands and colorful meadows. A fresh, crisp breeze carries the scent of blooming wildflowers and salt air, as birds return from their winter migration.
If you are an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or a novice looking to connect with nature, springtime hiking in South Jersey is unforgettable.
Below is a list of great choices for inexperienced and experienced hikers. Choose one, get out, and enjoy the fresh air and all of southern New Jersey's beauty.
Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve
Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve The Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve, a 220-acre sanctuary, is a hidden gem in a residential area of the township’s Scullville section.
The reserve consists of a lake area and a wooded forest, offering a variety of terrains for nature lovers.
The Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve Loop is a 1.6-mile trail many hikers enjoy. Generally, the trail is considered easy and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
The terrain offers a mix of natural surfaces and a variety of trail options, allowing you to explore the lake area and the surrounding woods. Hiking, paddle sports, walking, birdwatching and picnicking are common activities enjoyed in this area.
The Nature Reserve is at 317 Zion Road in Egg Harbor Township.
Cape May County Park and Zoo
There are many excellent hiking opportunities at Cape May County Park in the spring.
The Cape May Loop is a 2.6-mile trail surrounding the Cape May County Park and Zoo. This trail suits all hikers of all skill levels and features natural and paved surfaces.
Additionally, you can observe local wildlife and stroll through the zoo, which houses more than 550 animals representing more than 250 species.
The Park and Zoo is located off the Garden State Parkway at Exit 11, 707 North Route 9, Cape May Court House.
Cape May Point
Cape May Point
Nature lovers and hikers will find Cape May Point a tranquil oasis.
One of the highlights of this area is the variety of hiking trails available in Cape May Point State Park for hikers of all levels.
The park is renowned for its iconic Cape May Lighthouse, a World War II gun battery and a fire control tower.
The park transforms into a vibrant landscape in spring, creating an ideal setting for hiking adventures.
The Cape May Point Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park. It consists of a 1.8-mile loop that takes 31 minutes to complete.
Running and walking are popular on this trail, but you can still enjoy solitude at quieter times.
The trail has a mix of boardwalks, gravel and natural surfaces, making it a diverse and exciting hike. Along the trail, you can explore ponds, coastal dunes, marshes and forest habitats.
In addition to the trail, several benches and bird blinds provide opportunities for rest and wildlife observation.
Cape May Point is located at 299 Lighthouse Road.
Wharton State Forest
Wharton State Forest is a premium hiking destination with more than 110 miles of trails,
The length, difficulty and use of trails vary. Its more than 123,000 acres makes Wharton State Forest the largest tract of land in the New Jersey State Park system. About half of the 53-mile Batona hiking trail lies within its boundaries.
The region consists of dry uplands and low wetlands with primarily flat topography, a few low hills and sandy soil.
Wetland savannas, swamps and bogs are located near slow-moving rivers and creeks with a brownish-yellow color due to tannins. The pine barren ecosystem relies heavily on wetlands to sustain rare and endangered species.
The park has 50 miles of well-marked hiking trails, providing numerous opportunities to immerse oneself in the vast wilderness. More than 27 miles of the Batona Trail are located within Wharton State Forest.
The half-mile Atsion Lake Blue Trail and mile-long Atsion Lake Red Trail are great options for those seeking shorter hikes.
These loop trails run parallel to the shoreline of Atsion Lake, providing stunning views and an opportunity to spot the local flora flourishing in the spring.
Wharton State Forest is located at 744 US-206 in Shamong, Burlington County.
Batsto Village
Batsto Village
In the heart of Wharton State Forest, the historic town of Batsto offers many opportunities to enjoy the Pine Barrens.
A popular hiking trail in the area is the 4.1-mile Batsto Lake Trail. The trail is generally easy and takes one hour and 18 minutes to complete.
The terrain is a mix of sandy paths, bog bridges and trails covered in pine needles, making it an exciting and diverse hike.
In addition to exploring the pine forest, you will also walk along the tranquil Batsto Lake as you traverse the trail. This area is a haven for nature lovers for birdwatching, fishing and hiking.
Batsto Village is located on Route 542 in the Wharton State Forest in Washington Township.
Batona State Forest
Batona State Forest, situated in Tuckahoe, offers a diverse range of trails suitable for hikers of all experience levels, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
This forest contains part of the Batona Trail, a 53-mile trail through the Pine Barrens. It is moderately challenging and offers a long-distance hiking experience that can be tackled in sections.
The forest comes alive in spring with blooming wildflowers and emerging wildlife, making it ideal for hiking.
This trail provides a diverse and exciting hiking experience, with sandy paths, bog bridges and pine needle-covered trails. Walking along the trail, you can explore the pine forest and enjoy the tranquility of Batsto Lake and the surrounding pine forest.
The Batona Trail can be accessed from various points, such as the Carranza Memorial.
A large parking lot is past the memorial and along the sand road.
The Batona Trail is at 4110 Nesco Road in Hammonton.
The Carranza Memorial is on Carranza Road in Tabernacle, Burlington County.
Maurice River Bluffs
The Maurice River Bluffs in Millville is an ideal destination for a spring hike.
A 5.3-mile loop trail in the reserve is generally considered easy and takes about an hour and 47 minutes to complete. A 35-foot bridge, steps and rails throughout the steeper parts make the trail system accessible to all levels of hikers.
You will likely encounter others during your exploration, as it is a popular area for bird watching, fishing and hiking.
This trail offers a mix of natural surfaces along the Maurice River, providing a diverse and exciting hiking experience. Along the trail, you can explore the forest, enjoy river views and observe various waterfowl, including bald eagles in their natural habitat.
Maurie River Bluffs is at 1200 Silver Run Road in Millville, Cumberland County.
Check the weather and ensure that the trails are safe. Bring plenty of water and wear good shoes. Get out there and explore the diverse choices of shore, wetlands and forests within a short drive in South Jersey. Spring is upon us!
