Discover New Jersey's natural beauty with these five hikes featuring stunning sunsets
New Jersey offers more than just the iconic Jersey Shore for sunset viewing.
Beyond the beaches, numerous accessible hiking trails provide stunning sunset panoramas.
These easy to moderate hikes, located in natural refuges, along peaceful paths and by rivers, all deliver exceptional sunset experiences.
Barnegat Lighthouse Trail, Barnegat Light
Enjoy an easy and relaxing 1.7-mile hike along the Barnegat Lighthouse Trail. This beautiful spot, home to the state's iconic lighthouse, offers incredible ocean views and plenty of space to spread out and watch the sun go down. Please note that dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Dune and Pompano Trail Loop, Manasquan
For a truly serene sunset experience, the 0.7-mile Dune and Pompano Trail Loop offers peaceful beachside views of a nearby reservoir. This uncrowded path provides a perfect setting for quiet contemplation as the sun dips below the horizon.
High Point Monument, Wantage
A lone bench faces the mountains under a stormy sunset at High Point State Park, the top of NJ, in late spring.
High Point Monument's popularity is justified by its stunning vistas. The 2.8-mile hike, with a 515-foot elevation gain, presents the most challenging climb on this list, but the payoff is immense. The trail is well-maintained and frequented by hikers, so plan for an early start to avoid crowds.
Red Bank Battlefield Trail, National Park
A scenic view of Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Freehold, New Jersey.
Discover the scenic beauty of Red Bank Battlefield, located in Gloucester County, with its captivating Delaware River panoramas. A simple one-mile hike encircles the park, leading to a pier where the sunset transforms the river into a spectacle of shimmering colors.
Bristow Trail, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
Explore the 4.7-mile Bristow Trail (formerly the Songbird Trail Loop), a moderately challenging hike through the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge's wetlands. While the 177-foot elevation gain is manageable, be prepared for uneven terrain. Known for its birdwatching opportunities, this trail truly comes alive as the sun sets, offering a serene and immersive experience.
