The best walks and hikes around Little Silver
5.0
(12)
233
hikers
28
hikes
Hikes around Little Silver NJ are characterized by a mix of coastal paths, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. The borough's location in Monmouth County provides access to an extensive network of trails in nearby state parks, with routes along the Navesink River and through forested areas. The terrain is generally gentle, with most routes featuring modest elevation changes suitable for a range of abilities.
Best hiking trails around Little Silver
- The most popular hiking route is the Laurel Ridge & Grand Tour loop — Hartshorne Woods, a 5.1 mile (8.2 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 15 minutes to complete. This route explores the hilly, wooded terrain of Hartshorne Woods Park.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Huber Woods County Park loop — Rumson, an easy 4.5 mile (7.2 km) path. The trail winds through the meadows and forests of the park, with some views over the Navesink River.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Long Branch Boardwalk — East Long Branch, a 3.9 mile (6.3 km) trail leading through a coastal environment, often completed in about 1 hour 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Little Silver is defined by forested parklands, riverside trails, and paved coastal paths. The trail network offers a variety of options, from easy walks in local parks to more moderate hikes with elevation changes in larger preserves.
- The routes in Little Silver are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 20 reviews. More than 250 hikers have used komoot to explore Little Silver's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
13
hikers
7.16km
01:56
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
8.92km
02:26
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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14.6km
03:41
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19.9km
05:01
30m
30m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
42
hikers
4.63km
01:16
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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Beach D is part of the sequence of beaches in Gateway Area, sitting along the path that runs along the coast. The nice sandy beach offers some facilities, like a grocery store and public toilets. The Park is the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, offering green spaces, historic structures, and cultural landscapes alongside the beaches.
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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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Sandy Hook Trail is a scenic path that winds through dunes and maritime forests, providing breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse.
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Beach C sits in the Gateway National Recreation Area on a narrow peninsula with a long sand bank. It’s at a point where the peninsula is very narrow, so you can have easy access to the beach and to the Shrewsbury River.
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Beach D is part of the sequence of beaches in Gateway Area, sitting along the path that runs along the coast. The nice sandy beach offers some facilities, like a grocery store and public toilets. The Park is the gateway from the ocean into New York Harbor, offering green spaces historic structures, and cultural landscapes alongside the beaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hikes near Little Silver?
Yes, the area offers several great options for families. For a gentle walk with river views and educational opportunities, consider the trails at Huber Woods Park. Another excellent choice is the McCarter Pond loop — Fair Haven Fields Natural Area, which is a very easy and relatively flat walk perfect for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in the Little Silver area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Both Hartshorne Woods and Huber Woods parks welcome dogs. For a dedicated local walk, the Little Silver Nature Trail is also a popular spot for dog walkers.
Are there any paved trails for walking or strollers?
Absolutely. For a scenic coastal experience, the Sandy Hook Multi-Use Pathway is a flat, paved path that runs for over 8 miles, offering views of the ocean and bay. Within Little Silver, Sickles Park also has paved walking paths suitable for a casual stroll.
Where can I find more challenging hikes?
For those seeking a more strenuous workout, Hartshorne Woods County Park is the best destination. It's known for its hilly terrain and significant elevation changes compared to other local parks. The Hartshorne Woods County Park loop via Rocky Point Trail is a good example of a moderately challenging route in this park.
What's the difference between hiking in Hartshorne Woods and Huber Woods?
Hartshorne Woods Park is known for its challenging, hilly terrain with over 14 miles of trails, making it ideal for hikers seeking a workout. It also features historical military batteries. Huber Woods Park offers a more tranquil experience with gentler, forested trails, scenic meadows, and an Environmental Center, making it a great choice for nature observation and easier walks.
Are there any trails with waterfront views?
Yes, you have several options for waterfront hikes. Hartshorne Woods and Huber Woods both offer trails with beautiful views overlooking the Navesink River. For ocean and bay views, the paved path along Sandy Hook is an excellent choice.
How many hiking trails are available around Little Silver?
There are over 25 hiking routes to explore around Little Silver. The selection ranges from easy, flat paths in local parks to more moderate, hilly trails in the larger county preserves, offering plenty of variety for all skill levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
The trails around Little Silver are very highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, from the dense woodlands and rolling hills of Hartshorne Woods to the serene river views at Huber Woods. The well-maintained trail systems are also frequently mentioned.
What is the best time of year to hike around Little Silver?
Hiking is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant. In spring, you'll see wildflowers and budding trees, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer is also popular, especially for coastal walks, though it can be hot and humid in the forests.
Where can I park when visiting the major parks?
The main county parks near Little Silver have dedicated parking areas. Hartshorne Woods County Park has several lots, including ones near the Rocky Point and Buttermilk Valley entrances. Huber Woods Park also has a main parking lot near its Environmental Center. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends, as lots can fill up.
Are there any easy trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, the region is great for beginners. The majority of the trails are rated as easy. The paths within Sickles Park and the Little Silver Nature Trail are perfect for starting out. For a slightly longer but still easy hike in a beautiful setting, the trails at Huber Woods Park are an excellent choice.
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