Best lakes around Ledgewood New Jersey offer access to diverse water features within Morris County. This unincorporated community is situated near larger freshwater bodies like Lake Hopatcong and Lake Musconetcong. The region provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking trails and fishing ponds. Ledgewood's proximity to these lakes makes it a central point for exploring Northern New Jersey's aquatic landscapes.
Last updated: June 16, 2026
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The Highlands Trail is a 150-mile hiking trail that runs from the Delaware River to the NJ/NJ border. This section of the trail runs through beautiful green scenery in the Allamuchy State Park and past several lakes. The path crosses Sussex Branch Trail near Jefferson Lake.
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Old Waterloo Road is an old access road that circles around the perimeter of Stephens State Park. There is this pretty cool lake just off the side of the road. The rest of the property is private, so just enjoy the view and carry on.
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Walk, bike, or jog along the park's trails, soaking in the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding woodlands. Take a break at one of the picnic areas and savor a delicious lunch with a breathtaking backdrop.
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As an older total noob, the iron mine section was far too challenging on the climb and definitely anything but easy on the descent. Maybe I should stick to gravel🤣🤣🤔
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The Sussex Branch Trail is unpaved and traverses roughly 20 miles through farmland, forest and towns in Sussex County. The trail goes through many quiet areas and is pretty flat.
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This is a 329 acres reservoir that's part of Hopatcong State Park.
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The primary lakes in and near Ledgewood include Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey's largest freshwater lake, and Lake Musconetcong, which is part of Hopatcong State Park. Ledgewood Park also features a local fishing pond. While private, Lake Lackawanna is another notable body of water in the broader region.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can explore trails at Ledgewood Park/Morris Canal Park, which offers paths with historical remnants. The Highlands Trail passes through Allamuchy State Park near several lakes, and the Sussex Branch Trail, an unpaved 20-mile path, also traverses through areas with lakes. For more options, check out the hiking guide for Ledgewood.
Lake Hopatcong is a premier destination for a wide range of water activities. You can enjoy boating (motorboats, sailboats, jet skis), swimming, fishing, water skiing, and wakeboarding. Hopatcong State Park provides a designated swimming area and boat launch access.
Yes, Lake Musconetcong is very popular for fishing, including ice fishing in winter, with species like yellow perch, chain pickerel, and largemouth bass. It also offers a public boat ramp and parking, making it convenient for boating and paddling, especially for beginners due to its generally calmer waters.
Yes, the region has historical significance. Ledgewood Park/Morris Canal Park features remnants of the historic Morris Canal, including a turbine and an incline plane. The Morris Canal towpath also runs along the shore of Lake Musconetcong, adding cultural interest to your visit.
Many lakes in the area are family-friendly. Hopatcong State Park at Lake Hopatcong offers a designated swimming area, picnic facilities, and is known for being a great family destination with parks and mini-golf nearby. Ledgewood Park also provides a local spot for fishing and peaceful walks.
Yes, several areas are dog-friendly. Hopatcong State Park is dog-friendly, and the Lake Musconetcong area also welcomes dogs. Always ensure your dog is leashed and follow local regulations.
The lakes offer activities year-round. Summer is ideal for swimming, boating, and water sports. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather for hiking and enjoying the natural scenery. Winter allows for ice fishing and other cold-weather activities on suitable lakes.
Yes, there are options for easy walks. Ledgewood Park offers peaceful trails. For more structured easy hikes, consider routes like the Ranger Trail Loop or the Waterloo Village Loop via Morris Canal Greenway. You can find more easy routes in the easy hikes guide for Ledgewood.
The area offers various cycling routes. The Sussex Branch Trail is a generally flat, unpaved path suitable for cycling. Other routes include the Sunset Lake – Dickerson Mine Preserve loop and the River Styx Cove – Hopatcong State Park loop. Explore more options in the cycling guide for Ledgewood.
Lake Hopatcong is known for its lakeside dining options, many of which are boat-accessible. Hopatcong State Park also provides picnic facilities with grills. For other amenities, you'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation in nearby towns like Netcong and Stanhope.


Still not found your perfect lake around Ledgewood? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.