The best walks and hikes in Burlington County

Burlington County offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 30 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging excursions, catering to different skill levels.

Yes, Burlington County has many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. Out of the 36 routes, 23 are rated as easy. A great option is the Creekside Trail loop — Rancocas State Park, which is 3.1 miles long and leads through forests and along the Rancocas Creek. Another family-friendly choice is the Peaceful Partners Trail & Long Path loop — Black Run Preserve, an easy 3.3-mile route exploring a unique ecosystem.

The terrain in Burlington County is quite diverse. A significant portion lies within the New Jersey Pine Barrens, featuring unique pine and oak forests, wetlands, and sandy soils. You'll also find trails winding through deciduous forests, open grasslands, and along waterways like the Rancocas Creek and Mullica River. While generally flat, some areas like Arney's Mount Park offer slight elevation changes.

While Burlington County is generally known for its flatter trails, some routes offer more significant distances and moderate elevation gains. For a more challenging experience, consider the Pakim Pond via Batona Trail — Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, which is a difficult 16.7-mile route with an elevation gain of about 220 feet (67 meters).

Burlington County's trails offer several points of interest. You can explore the unique Pine Barrens ecosystem in areas like Wharton State Forest and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest. Many trails follow rivers and creeks, providing opportunities for birdwatching. Notable attractions include Atsion Lake and Pakim Pond, both popular spots for recreation. Historic sites like Batsto Village in Wharton State Forest also offer a glimpse into the region's past.

Yes, many of the hiking routes in Burlington County are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Red Footpath loop — Franklin Parker Preserve and the Harrisville Lake loop — Wharton State Forest.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many hiking trails in Burlington County, provided they are kept on a leash. However, it's always recommended to check the specific rules and regulations of individual parks or preserves before your visit, as policies can vary.

The hiking experiences in Burlington County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural features, from the unique Pine Barrens to scenic river paths, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various ability levels.

While Burlington County is largely flat, areas like Arney's Mount Park, the highest point in the county at 243 feet, offer expansive views of farmlands and forests. Amico Island County Park is also praised for its great views and sandy coastline, providing scenic perspectives of the Delaware River.

For those seeking longer hikes, Burlington County offers several options. The Mount Misery Trail loop — Brendan T. Byrne State Forest is a moderate 9.8-mile route. Another substantial option is the Batona Trail & Cranberry Trail loop — Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, which covers 7 miles. The longest route listed is the difficult Pakim Pond via Batona Trail — Brendan T. Byrne State Forest at 16.7 miles.

Yes, several parks in Burlington County are excellent for birdwatching and wildlife observation due to their diverse habitats. Boundary Creek Natural Resource Area, with its upland and lowland forests, fields, and tidal wetlands along the Rancocas Creek, is specifically designed for quiet nature study and offers great opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife.