Top 6 NJ bike trails to relax and enjoy nature this summer

One of the best things about living in New Jersey is getting to experience all four seasons so we take advantage of the weather accordingly.

The minute it starts to get warm out, we want to spend as much time outside as possible since it only lasts a few months.

The summertime is mostly spent either at the beach or at backyard hangouts but during the spring and beginning of fall, taking a bike ride is a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise in, too.

Biking on a trail is also a great family activity and it gets the kids off of their phones and outside playing like we used to do.

This is a great opportunity to see the most scenic parts of the Garden State and you don’t need to be a skilled bike rider to hop on these trails.

You also don’t need to bike through the entire trail.

That’s the best part about it, you decide where, when, and how far to go.

And there’s at least one bike trail in every county of the state so you don’t have to go far to take in this experience.

Here are the best trails to try out in New Jersey:

Linwood Bikepath (Pleasantville-Somers Point)

Located in Atlantic County, this bike path was built on the former Atlantic City and Shore Railroad line. It’s an 8-mile rail trail that is full of nature but also takes you through the center of the cities.

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail

Located in Hunterdon, Mercer, and Somerset Counties, this trail is 72.8 miles long. It starts (or ends) in Frenchtown and you can make it all the way to New Brunswick following the canal the whole way through. You won’t only get a sense of nature on this trail but you’ll also run into a lot of New Jersey history.

Lawrence Hopewell Trail (Mercer Meadows Segment)

Located in Mercer County, this trail is 7.3 miles near Lawrence Township. Many people go there to bird watch as well so that’s a fun addition. It’s said to take a total of 2 hours and 22 minutes to complete this trail which is perfect timing for a summer outing.

Henry Hudson Trail

Located in Monmouth County, this 22.5-mile trail goes from Freehold to the Highlands, and don’t forget to make a pit stop at Popamora Point for a fantastic view.

Landsdown Trail

This trail is located in Hunterdon County and although it’s on the smaller side with only 3.7 miles, it’s quiet and private and you’re surrounded by nature.

Paulinskill Valley Trail

Located in Sussex and Warren Counties, this trail is 27.1 miles long and goes from Sparta Township to Knowlton Township. On this trail, you’ll encounter the Paulinskill Viaduct, a 115 feet tall reinforced concrete railroad bridge.

If you're more of a hiker, check out these hiking trails throughout the state:

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5's Morning Show Producer Kristen. Any opinions expressed are her own.
Questions, corrections, or comments? Send Producer Kristen an email at kristen.accardi@townsquaremedia.com or follow her on Instagram.