The best walks and hikes in Sussex County

Sussex County offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 80 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, ensuring options for all skill levels.

The terrain in Sussex County is incredibly diverse, encompassing the rugged Kittatinny Mountains, dense forests, serene wetlands, and numerous lakes. You'll find everything from challenging mountain climbs with significant elevation changes, particularly along sections of the Appalachian Trail, to flatter, accessible paths like those found in Kittatinny Valley State Park or along the Paulinskill Valley Trail.

The hiking routes in Sussex County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from nearly 50 reviews. Over 700 hikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic views, well-maintained paths, and the diverse natural beauty of the region.

Yes, Sussex County has many family-friendly trails. For an easy and scenic walk, consider the Jefferson Lake Loop – Allamuchy Mountain State Park, which offers beautiful views around the lake. Another great option is the Crater Lake and Hemlock Pond loop — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, an easy 3.3-mile path perfect for a leisurely outing.

Many parks and trails in Sussex County are dog-friendly, though it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, trails in state parks like Allamuchy Mountain State Park and Stokes State Forest welcome leashed dogs. The flat, multi-use Andover to Waterloo via Sussex Branch Trail is a good option for walking with your canine companion.

Yes, Sussex County is home to beautiful waterfalls. A popular route that features a stunning waterfall is the Buttermilk Falls to Appalachian Trail — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. This trail leads you directly to Buttermilk Falls, one of New Jersey's tallest waterfalls.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to High Point State Park, the highest point in New Jersey. From the monument, you can see across three states: New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Another excellent option is the Sunrise Mountain Loop – Stokes State Forest, which offers spectacular vistas, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Yes, many trails in Sussex County are designed as loops, offering a varied experience without retracing your steps. Examples include the Allamuchy Loop – Allamuchy Mountain State Park, a moderate 6.3-mile trail, and the Kittatinny Valley State Park loop, which is a moderate 4.7-mile route.

Sussex County is rich in natural beauty. Besides Buttermilk Falls, you can explore Stokes State Forest, known for its diverse ecosystems, or visit Kittatinny Mountain for its impressive summit. The Sussex Branch Trail itself is a historic landmark, following an old railway line.

Absolutely. Parks like Kittatinny Valley State Park and Blair Creek Nature Preserve are excellent for wildlife observation. You might spot whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species. The Paulinskill Valley Trail is particularly noted by birdwatchers for its diverse avian population, with over 100 different species recorded.

Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for hiking in Sussex County. Spring brings wildflowers and lush greenery, while fall offers spectacular foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures and potential humidity. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on flatter trails, but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, sections of the Appalachian Trail that traverse Sussex County offer significant elevation changes and rugged terrain. The Blue Mountain Loop – Stokes State Forest is a moderate 9.5-mile route with notable climbs, and the Waterloo Village via Highland Trail — Allamuchy State Park is a longer, moderate 10-mile hike with substantial elevation gain.