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United States
New Jersey
Hunterdon County

Clinton

The best running trails around Clinton

By Fede from komoot

Β·

Updated June 8, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan your next run and found yourself drowning in endless maps and conflicting advice, you know the struggle of finding genuinely great jogging routes around Clinton. It's easy to get overwhelmed by all the options, wondering which trails are truly worth your time and effort. We get it – you want the highlights, not the filler.

That's where komoot comes in. Our community has been out there, mapping and reviewing these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best places to run in Clinton. This guide cuts through the noise, promising to save you the guesswork and point you straight to the routes that deliver.

Jogging around Clinton offers a fantastic mix of scenery, from multi-use paths winding along the Raritan River to peaceful wooded sections and the natural beauty of the Ken Lockwood Gorge. You'll find everything from relatively flat trails perfect for a steady pace to routes with moderate elevation changes that add a bit more challenge. The area truly shines with its riverbanks, woodlands, and reservoir surroundings, providing a diverse backdrop for your runs.

If you only do one route, we'd point you to the Califon Train Station – Columbia Trail loop from High Bridge. At 11.0 miles (17.7 km) with 442 feet (134.7 m) of elevation gain, it's a more difficult route that really showcases the varied terrain Clinton has to offer. For a solid moderate option that still gives you a great feel for the area, the Columbia Trail – Columbia Trail loop from High Bridge is a fantastic choice at 5.7 miles (9.1 km). With nearly 100 runners having explored these paths with komoot, you know you're in good company. Dive in and discover your next favorite jogging route!

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Columbia Trail – Califon Train Station loop from High Bridge
  2. 2

    Columbia Trail – Columbia Trail loop from High Bridge
  3. 3

    Clinton Mills Dam – Pine Hill Section loop from Clinton

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Columbia Trail – Califon Train Station loop from High Bridge

17.7Β km

130Β m

Hard

Columbia Trail – Columbia Trail loop from High Bridge

9.10Β km

80Β m

Moderate

Clinton Mills Dam – Pine Hill Section loop from Clinton

24.5Β km

180Β m

Hard

Clinton Mills Dam – Pine Hill Section loop from Echo Hill Park

22.0Β km

130Β m

Hard

Clinton Mills Dam loop from Lansdowne

6.74Β km

10Β m

Moderate

Pine Hill Section loop from Allerton

10.2Β km

50Β m

Moderate

Round Valley Reservoir – Cushetunk Mountain loop from Clinton Township

21.1Β km

530Β m

Hard

Running loop from Potterstown

11.8Β km

90Β m

Moderate

Clinton Mills Dam loop from Clinton

7.64Β km

30Β m

Moderate

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1.

Columbia Trail – Califon Train Station loop from High Bridge

17.7km

01:51

130m

130m

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.

Clinton Mills Dam loop from Lansdowne

6.74km

00:42

10m

10m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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6.

Pine Hill Section loop from Allerton

10.2km

01:03

50m

50m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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8.

Running loop from Potterstown

11.8km

01:14

90m

90m

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Tips from the Community

Zachary
June 25, 2025, Califon Train Station

The old train station was built in the late 1800s for the Central Railroad of New Jersey. Today, it serves as a hub for the Califon Historical Society and access point for the Columbia Rail Trail. Supposedly, the name Califon comes from a shortening of "California", since the painter creating the station map didn't leave enough room for the original title.

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Alex
February 12, 2024, Clinton Mills Dam

Clinton Mills Dam, located on the South Branch Raritan River, holds historical significance as a former industrial site powering the Clinton Mills. Today, it captivates visitors with its scenic beauty and offers recreational opportunities such as fishing and birdwatching, preserving its legacy amidst natural splendor.

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Pine Hill Section Nature Reserve is a woodland area that strides the Raritan River. You can ride to the reserve using Hampton Road that takes you over the bridge near the dam. This is a beautiful ride, but be aware that this is a gravel road.

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Matthew
February 2, 2024, Columbia Trail

The Columbia Trail is a 16.5-mile paved path consisting of dirt and packed gravel. Pretty much any tires can handle the smooth surface, and it's easy to cover a lot of miles with how flat the entire trail is.

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Pine Hill Section Nature Reserve is a woodland area that strides the Raritan River. You can ride to the reserve using Hampton Road that takes you over the bridge near the dam. This is a beautiful ride, but be aware that this is a gravel road.

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Explore the captivating Ken Lockwood Gorge within the 500-acre Ken Lockwood Wildlife Management Area. This picturesque landscape, adorned with towering hemlocks along steep walls, creates an isolated and serene atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the 2.5-mile stretch of the South Branch of the Raritan River, featuring cascading waters, small waterfalls, and tranquil poolsβ€”an enchanting experience, especially in the vibrant spring season.

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AverieOutside
January 24, 2024, Columbia Trail

The Columbia Trail is a 16.5-mile paved multi-use trail that travels through Morris and Hunterdon counties along the South Branch Raritan River.

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Tyler Sanders
January 24, 2024, Lake Solitude

This stunning lake features a unique rock wall waterfall and is surrounded by lush trees. The sights are even more amazing in springtime when the leaves start to change colors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many running routes are available in Clinton?

Clinton offers a diverse selection of 19 running routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These include multi-use paths, wooded trails, and routes along significant natural features.

What are the difficulty levels of running routes in Clinton?

The running routes in Clinton range from easy to difficult. There is 1 easy route, 13 moderate routes, and 5 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual joggers and experienced runners seeking a challenge.

Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running trails in Clinton?

Yes, Clinton offers at least one easy running route. For those looking for a slightly longer but still manageable option, many of the 13 moderate routes, such as the Pine Hill Section loop from Allerton, provide accessible terrain through wooded areas.

Can I find circular running routes in Clinton?

Yes, many of Clinton's running paths are designed as loops. For example, the popular Califon Train Station – Columbia Trail loop from High Bridge offers a substantial 11.0-mile circular route, and the Ken Lockwood Gorge – Columbia Trail loop from High Bridge provides a moderate 5.9-mile loop.

What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while running in Clinton?

Running in Clinton offers a chance to see various natural features and landmarks. You might encounter the impressive Ken Lockwood Gorge with its huge boulders and rapids, or the historic Clinton Mills Dam. Many routes also follow the scenic South Branch of the Raritan River.

Are there dog-friendly running trails in Clinton?

While specific dog-friendly designations for all routes are not detailed, many multi-use paths and open spaces in the Clinton area, such as sections of the Columbia Trail and various township preserves, are generally welcoming to leashed dogs. Always check local regulations for specific trails.

Are there family-friendly running routes in Clinton?

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The Columbia Trail, for instance, is a relatively flat, multi-use path that meanders along the Raritan River, making it a good option for families. The Clinton Nature Trail in Clinton, NY (a nearby region with the same name), is also noted as family-friendly, winding through open fields and woodlands.

Where can I find parking for running trails in Clinton?

Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and parks in Clinton. For routes like those incorporating the Columbia Trail, parking can often be found near access points in towns like High Bridge. Local parks and preserves typically offer designated parking areas for visitors.

What is the best time of year to go running in Clinton?

Clinton offers good running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and scenic foliage. Summer mornings and evenings are ideal to avoid the heat, while winter running is possible, though some trails may require appropriate gear for snow or ice.

What do other runners say about the trails in Clinton?

The running routes in Clinton are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. Runners often praise the varied terrain, scenic river paths, and the peaceful wooded sections that define the area's trails.

Are there any specific attractions or points of interest near the running routes?

Absolutely! Beyond the trails themselves, you can explore attractions like Voorhees State Park, known for its trails and natural beauty, or the tranquil Lake Solitude. The Columbia Trail itself is a significant point of interest, offering a long, scenic path.

Are there any running routes that pass by water features like lakes or rivers?

Yes, many running routes in Clinton feature beautiful water elements. The Columbia Trail runs along the South Branch of the Raritan River. Additionally, you can find routes near Lake Solitude and the expansive Round Valley Reservoir, New Jersey's deepest lake, offering stunning water views.

Are there trails that offer a mix of terrain, like rail trails and natural paths?

Yes, Clinton's running landscape is characterized by a mix of terrain. Routes often combine sections of multi-use rail trails, such as the Columbia Trail, with natural footpaths through wooded areas and along riverbanks. This variety provides an engaging experience for runners.

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