Hiking & Biking Trails Near the Jersey Shore
From pine barrens paths to coastal boardwalks, discover 230 trails across 49 parks in the shore region. Whether you're seeking a peaceful nature walk or a challenging hike, find your perfect trail.
230
Total Trails
137+
Miles of Trails
49
Parks & Preserves
5
Accessible Trails
Find by Activity
Featured Parks
View All Parks →Gateway National Recreation Area
Monmouth County
Allaire State Park
Monmouth County
Hartshorne Woods Park
Monmouth County
Holmdel Park
Monmouth County
Holmdel Park / Ramanessin
Monmouth County
Belleplain State Forest
Cape May County
Trails by County
Monmouth County
Hartshorne Woods, Henry Hudson Trail
Ocean County
Island Beach State Park, Cattus Island
Atlantic County
Forsythe NWR, Lake Lenape Park
Cape May County
Cape May Point, Belleplain State Forest
Find by Difficulty
Major State Parks & Preserves
Gateway National Recreation Area
Monmouth County
Allaire State Park
Monmouth County
Hartshorne Woods Park
Monmouth County
Holmdel Park
Monmouth County
Holmdel Park / Ramanessin
Monmouth County
Belleplain State Forest
Cape May County
Wells Mills County Park
Ocean County
Island Beach State Park
Ocean County
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Monmouth County
County Parks & Nature Preserves
Lake Lenape Park
Atlantic County
Deep Run
Atlantic County
Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
Cape May County
Assunpink Wildlife Management Area
Monmouth County
Huber Woods Park
Monmouth County
Thompson Park
Monmouth County
Henry Hudson Trail
Monmouth County
Manasquan Reservoir
Monmouth County
Clayton Park
Monmouth County
Shark River Park
Monmouth County
Turkey Swamp Park
Monmouth County
Union Transportation Trail
Monmouth County
Trail Safety Tips
Tick Prevention
Ticks are common in shore-area trails, especially in wooded and grassy areas. Use DEET or permethrin, wear long pants, and check thoroughly after hiking.
Sun & Hydration
Coastal and open trails offer little shade. Bring plenty of water (more than you think), wear sunscreen, and consider a hat for exposed trails.
Sandy Trails
Pine Barrens trails can be soft sand. Wear sturdy footwear, expect slower going, and bring extra water as it's more tiring than hard-packed trails.
Wildlife
Wildlife refuges are home to diverse species. Keep distance from wildlife, stay on marked trails, and bring binoculars for birding opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hiking trails near the Jersey Shore?
Top trails include Hartshorne Woods Park in Monmouth County for scenic bay views, Island Beach State Park for coastal dune walks, Belleplain State Forest for pine barrens exploration, and Cape May Point State Park for birding. Each offers a unique Jersey Shore outdoor experience.
Are there paved bike trails along the Jersey Shore?
Yes! The Henry Hudson Trail offers over 10 miles of paved rail-trail from Aberdeen to Atlantic Highlands. The Edgar Felix Bikeway in Manasquan and various boardwalk paths provide smooth cycling. Many state parks also have paved accessible trails.
Which trails are ADA accessible?
Several shore-area parks offer accessible trails including boardwalk paths at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, paved trails at Cattus Island County Park, and portions of the Henry Hudson Trail. Always check current conditions before visiting.
What should I know about hiking in the Pine Barrens?
The Pine Barrens offer unique sandy trails through pitch pine and oak forests. Bring plenty of water, use tick prevention, and be aware that trails can be soft sand. Belleplain State Forest and Wells Mills County Park are excellent entry points.