The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Hunterdon County

The Schooley's Mountain Boulder Gorge Loop Trail offers a fascinating journey through a landscape shaped by water and time. You'll navigate a rugged, rocky path, particularly along Electric Brook, which has carved a dramatic bouldery gorge filled with unique rock formations. The highlight is undoubtedly the Waterfall on Electric Brook, a beautiful cascade over jumbled rocks, before the trail opens up to the Mountain Trail Overlook with expansive views.

This easy 2.3-mile (3.8 km) loop, with 517 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete. While generally accessible, be prepared for some bumpy and rugged sections, especially if you choose to descend into the gorge. The trail is located within Schooley's Mountain County Park, and it's advisable to check park hours and parking availability before your visit.

What truly sets this trail apart is its unique geology, a testament to the power of Electric Brook. The park also holds historical significance, with past iron ore mining and mineral-rich springs once used by the Lenape people for their healing properties. This route is a great way to experience both natural beauty and a touch of local history in Morris County, New Jersey.

The Voorhees State Park Loop offers a delightful escape into the wooded hills of Hunterdon County, New Jersey, guiding you through diverse forests and along Willoughby Brook. You'll encounter a mix of dirt paths, roots, and moderately rocky sections, with the majority of the 615 feet (187 metres) of elevation gain concentrated in the park's southern reaches. Keep an eye out for seasonal overlooks that provide glimpses of Spruce Run and Round Valley Reservoirs, especially beautiful during the autumn foliage.

This moderate 5.8-mile (9.3 km) hiking route typically takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete, making it an excellent option for a half-day outing. Parking is generally available, but consider arriving early, particularly on weekends or during the popular fall season. Dogs are welcome on the trails, though leash regulations are in effect.

Beyond the natural beauty, the park holds unique features like the educational Solar System Trail, marked with purple blazes near the New Jersey Astronomical Association Observatory. You might also discover "George's Thrones," thoughtfully arranged rock piles that serve as resting spots. The park's history as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp adds another layer of interest to your hike.

The Waterfall on Electric Brook – Mountain Trail Overlook loop from Long Valley offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, making it a top choice for a scenic outing. You'll traverse a bouldery gorge carved by Electric Brook, marvel at its peaceful waterfall, and enjoy expansive vistas from the Mountain Trail Overlook. This easy 4.1-mile (6.6 km) hiking route, with 612 feet (187 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours to complete, providing a rich experience without being overly strenuous.

Located in Schooley's Mountain County Park, this trail is easily accessible from Long Valley. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it's a popular spot, so an early start is often a good idea. To make the ascent along Electric Brook a bit smoother, consider hiking the loop in a clockwise direction. The trail is particularly beautiful during the fall for vibrant foliage, or in warmer months when the brook's pools are inviting for rock-hopping.

What sets this trail apart is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, featuring remnants of a historic hydroelectric station near a small waterfall. It's a fantastic family-friendly hike, offering a high reward for a moderate effort, combining picturesque waterfalls, a dramatic boulder gorge, and scenic overlooks all within one accessible loop.