New Jersey gets a bad wrap. Maybe not anymore, now that Netflix is setting up shop at the former Fort Monmouth Army Base and growing cities like Asbury are hosting exciting events such as the Sea Hear Now music festival.
I’ve lived in Monmouth County, New Jersey my entire life, and in my 23 years here, I have found that non-residents love to insult my beloved home state almost as much as they love to say New York is better right after.
Perhaps I have a warped perspective, as every member of my extended family was born and raised in New York—and won’t let me forget it.
That considered, I’ve been adding to New Jersey’s long list of defenses since I could talk, and at the top of the list in bright, shiny ink is Monmouth County.
Monmouth County has a lot to offer; between beaches stretching from Sandy Hook to Sea Girt, acres upon acres of farmland, and its close proximity to Philadelphia and Manhattan (see, it’s ingrained in me), it’s almost impressive if you find yourself getting bored.
What I find to be the cherry on top, though, are the dozens of walking and hiking trails available. Not only are you getting exercise, or more importantly in today’s day in age, meeting your daily step count, you’re also witnessing the many stunning elements of New Jersey’s diverse landscapes that most people cannot hear about over the obnoxious volume of New York pride!
Hartshorne Woods Park
Located in the Atlantic Highlands, Hartshorne Woods Park is always my first pick because it’s the perfect blend of the forest and the shore. According to the Monmouth County Park System website, Hartshorne is among the highest elevations along the Atlantic Coast.
With approximately 16 miles of trails and hills overlooking the Navesink River, Hartshorne attracts bicyclists and hikers alike. It is in reasonably close proximity to Monmouth University, making it the perfect destination for a breath of fresh air before classes, and, as corny as it may sound, its views never fail to put things in perspective when I need a pick-me-up.
Henry Hudson Trail
If this were a contest, the Henry Hudson Trail is definitely the runner-up. I primarily frequent the straightforward, paved path in the Highlands that you can find down the street from the Seastreak ferry terminal, though the trail in its entirety runs 24 miles along.
The paved path is mainly lined with trees but parallels the beach, from where you can see the Manhattan cityscape looking back at you. Every time I walk the Henry Hudson trail, I marvel at how lucky I am to call this area home.
Allaire State Park
I’m going to be honest–I got lost on one of these trails, but I still recommend it–as long as you’re prepared! Though it is primarily recognized for its historic 19th century village, Allaire State Park has roughly 20 miles of blazed trails, my favorite being the Pine Trail.
The Pine Trail is 4.5 miles long, and as stated by the New Jersey State Park Service, the longest south side trail with the most varied terrain.
The trek becomes a bit challenging — or as I like to call it, annoying–once you come across sandy areas, but its variety is what keeps it interesting. With over 3,000 acres, though, one can see where I might’ve gotten lost.
Manasquan Reservoir
Available to pedestrians, bicyclists, and even those on horseback, the Perimeter Trail circling Manasquan Reservoir is about 5.1 miles long. Though it is deemed moderate due to its length, I don’t find it particularly challenging in comparison to some of the uphill trails throughout the Highlands.
Plus, according to the Monmouth County Park System website, Manasquan Reservoir is the most visited site in the Monmouth County Parks System, with over one million visitors per year. So, don’t take my word for it, take one million others’.
In conclusion, New Jersey offers a lot more than “Jersey Shore”’s beloved Headliner and Tony Soprano–though they are a point of pride.
Monmouth County offers an assortment of stunning trails that showcase the natural beauty of New Jersey’s diverse landscapes, exceeding much more than the few I’ve listed here. After spending time amongst these trails, it’d be hard for even the most dedicated New York fans to deny the charm of Monmouth County.
