The best walks and hikes around Atlantic Highlands
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Hikes around Atlantic Highlands explore a landscape of forested hills and coastal paths along the Jersey Shore. The region is characterized by its extensive trail systems within parks like Hartshorne Woods, which feature some of the highest elevations along the Atlantic coast. The terrain offers a mix of hilly, wooded routes with views of the Navesink River and flatter, paved trails that follow former railway lines.
Best hiking trails around Atlantic Highlands
- The most popular hiking route is Laurel Ridge…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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hikers
7.16km
01:56
90m
90m
Embark on the Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop, an easy hiking route that winds through the dense forests of Hartshorne Woods Park. You will find plenty of shade as…
4
hikers
8.92km
02:26
130m
130m
Hike the moderate 5.5-mile Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop in Hartshorne Woods Park, featuring river views and historic bunkers.
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1
hikers
4.26km
01:06
30m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Henry Hudson Trail, a pleasant route spanning 2.6 miles (4.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 92 feet (28 metres). You can…
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23
hikers
8.21km
02:17
150m
150m
Hike the moderate 5.1-mile Laurel Ridge and Grand Tour Loop in Hartshorne Woods Park, featuring river views, dense forests, and historical b
19
hikers
6.64km
01:44
40m
40m
The Henry Hudson Trail offers an easy hiking experience, stretching 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 139 feet (42 metres). You can expect to complete this…
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Tips from the Community
Hartshorne Woods Park, in Monmouth County, is a nature lover's haven. With diverse trails winding through lush woodlands, it offers scenic views of the Navesink River and a pleasant ride.
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Ride a bike, run or walk the beautiful Bayshore shoreline
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Let 'er rip for a downhill section of trail! Well, maybe only a little bit — this is a shared-use trail, so you do need to stay in control and watch out for slower users, even if the singletrack looks inviting.
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This is where Henry Hudson first anchored his ship when he came to America and sent one of his sailors up onto land only to be shot in the chest by an arrow from the local Indian tribe. Within some hours, they figured out how to communicate with the Indian Indians and the Indian showed him a natural spring for them to refill their water jugs. They went up the Hudson River and the Hudson and that is why it is called the Henry Hudson River. Little bit of history here at the Jersey shore.
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Super awesome bike shop. It was originally the post office back in the 50’s or 60’s (?)… now is a locally owned bike shop with some of Lance Armstrong’s old TDF bikes on display. Great people, awesome atmosphere. They have all sorts of stuff there and good mechanics as well.
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Hartshorne Woods Park, in Monmouth County, is a nature lover's haven. With diverse trails winding through lush woodlands, it offers scenic views of the Navesink River and a pleasant ride.
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Hartshorne Woods Park, in Monmouth County, is a nature lover's haven. With diverse trails winding through lush woodlands, it offers scenic views of the Navesink River and a pleasant ride.
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Nestled along the Jersey Shore, Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, charms with its coastal allure. Picturesque marinas, historic architecture, and vibrant community spirit create a delightful seaside experience for residents and visitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Atlantic Highlands?
Yes, most trails in the Atlantic Highlands area, including those in Hartshorne Woods Park, are dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash and owners are expected to clean up after them. The Buttermilk Valley Entrance to Hartshorne Woods is a popular starting point for dog walkers.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Absolutely. For a gentle and scenic walk, the Huber Woods County Park loop is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat 4.5-mile (7.2 km) trail through woodlands and fields, making it suitable for hikers of all ages.
Which hikes offer the best water views?
For stunning coastal scenery, the Bayshore Trail is your best bet. This easy path follows the shoreline, providing expansive views of Sandy Hook Bay and the New York City skyline. Many trails within Hartshorne Woods Park also offer rewarding glimpses of the Navesink River.
Where can I find parking for the trails?
Hartshorne Woods Park has several parking areas, including the main lot on Portland Road and the often quieter Buttermilk Valley Entrance on Navesink Avenue. For the Henry Hudson Trail, a popular access point with ample parking is at Popamora Point.
What is the terrain like in Hartshorne Woods Park?
Hartshorne Woods Park is known for its hilly and rugged terrain, which is unique for the Jersey Shore. The trails are mostly unpaved paths that wind through a dense forest, with significant changes in elevation. Expect a challenging but rewarding hike.
Are there any paved trails suitable for walking or running?
Yes, the Henry Hudson Trail is a 24-mile paved multi-use path perfect for walking, running, and biking. The section running through Atlantic Highlands is relatively flat and offers beautiful views as it connects the marina to Popamora Point.
Are there any historical sites to see while hiking?
Yes, Hartshorne Woods Park contains the Historic Battery Lewis, a former coastal defense bunker from World War II. You can visit the restored gun emplacement, adding a unique historical element to your hike in the park.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Atlantic Highlands?
The trails are very highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the challenging, hilly terrain of Hartshorne Woods Park, which offers a great workout, and the beautiful coastal views along the flatter, more accessible trails.
How difficult are the hikes in this region?
The difficulty varies. You'll find many easy, relatively flat routes like the 24 paved trails available. However, the area is also home to more challenging hikes, such as the Laurel Ridge & Grand Tour loop, which is rated as moderate due to its hilly nature and 500 feet (150 m) of elevation gain.
Are there any circular hikes available?
Yes, many of the best hikes in the area are loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Hiking loop from Navesink is a great example of an easy circular route that explores the woodlands.
What is the longest trail in this guide?
The longest route featured is the Sandy Hook Trail. It's a nearly 9-mile (14.4 km) hike that is mostly flat, offering a longer excursion along the coast within the Gateway National Recreation Area.
Are there any waterfalls in the area?
Waterfalls are not a prominent feature of the parks in and immediately around Atlantic Highlands. The trails here are primarily known for their forested hills and coastal views.
Most popular attractions around Atlantic Highlands
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