Sussex Branch Trail

While the Komoot tour covering the entire 35.9 km (22.3 mi) length is rated as difficult due to its distance and duration (over 9 hours), the trail itself is largely considered easy. Its former railroad corridor design means it's mostly flat with a gentle grade, making it suitable for most skill levels and families. However, be prepared for some challenging sections with rocky, muddy, or overgrown surfaces, especially after rain.

As a former rail trail, the path is generally wide and flat. The surface is unpaved, consisting of a mix of gravel, ballast, grass, dirt, and cinder. While often smooth, some sections can be rocky, muddy, or overgrown, with exposed ballast or tree roots, particularly towards the northern end near Branchville.

The trail has multiple access points along its length. Specific parking areas are available at various points, particularly where it passes through Kittatinny Valley State Park and Allamuchy Mountain State Park. For detailed parking information, it's advisable to check the official New Jersey State Park websites or local trail maps.

No specific permits or entrance fees are generally required to access the Sussex Branch Trail itself. However, as it passes through sections of Kittatinny Valley State Park and Allamuchy Mountain State Park, it's always a good idea to check the respective park regulations for any specific activities or facilities you might use within those areas. You can find more information on the NJ Department of Environmental Protection website.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs should always be kept on a leash, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Please be mindful of other trail users, including cyclists and horseback riders.

The trail offers beauty year-round, but autumn is particularly spectacular when the surrounding forests transform into a 'tunnel of color.' Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while summer is great for enjoying the shaded sections. Winter hiking is also possible, especially for cross-country skiing when there's adequate snow cover.

You'll experience diverse natural environments, including forests, farmlands, swamps, and views of Jefferson Lake and Lake Aeroflex. The trail crosses the Pequest and Paulinskill Rivers and features dramatic bedrock cuts. Wildlife sightings may include deer, rabbits, squirrels, various birds like blue herons, and possibly even bald eagles.

The trail follows the former Sussex Branch line of the Erie Lackawanna Railroad, with remnants like bedrock cuts, underpasses for farm equipment, and historic railroad bridges. It also includes sections of the earlier mule-drawn Sussex Mine Railroad and passes through a tunnel under the Pequest Fill of the 1911 Lackawanna Cut-Off.

Yes, the trail is part of a larger network. It intersects with the Paulinskill Valley Trail at Warbasse Junction and also crosses the Great Valley Trail. The route also passes through sections of the 9-11 Trail (New Jersey thru route), Ranger Trail, and Waterloo-517 Trail, offering opportunities for longer, multi-trail adventures.

Yes, due to its mostly flat and wide path with a gentle grade, it is largely considered suitable for families and beginners. Shorter sections offer an easy and enjoyable experience. However, be aware that the full 35.9 km (22.3 mi) length is a significant undertaking, and some unpaved sections can be uneven or muddy.

The Sussex Branch Trail is primarily an out-and-back linear trail, following the former railroad corridor. While it connects with other trails like the Paulinskill Valley Trail and Great Valley Trail, creating a full loop of the entire Sussex Branch Trail itself is not typical. Most users hike a section out and then return the same way.