The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Highlands
5.0
(8)
198
hikers
7
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Highlands are characterized by coastal hills, forested paths, and scenic overlooks of the bay and ocean. The terrain primarily features gentle ascents and descents, making it accessible for various fitness levels. This region offers a blend of natural beauty with views of waterways and surrounding landscapes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Highlands
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop, a 5.5 miles (8.9 km) trail that…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
4
hikers
8.92km
02:26
130m
130m
Hike the moderate 5.5-mile Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop in Hartshorne Woods Park, featuring river views and historic bunkers.
3
hikers
4.26km
01:06
30m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Henry Hudson Trail, a pleasant route spanning 2.6 miles (4.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 92 feet (28 metres). You can…
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5.0
(1)
42
hikers
4.63km
01:16
70m
70m
The Rocky Point and Battery Loop Trail offers an easy hike covering 2.9 miles (4.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 232 feet (71 metres), taking about 1 hour…
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
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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Ride a bike, run or walk the beautiful Bayshore shoreline
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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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This is where Henry Hudson first anchored his ship when he came to America and sent one of his sailors up onto land only to be shot in the chest by an arrow from the local Indian tribe. Within some hours, they figured out how to communicate with the Indian Indians and the Indian showed him a natural spring for them to refill their water jugs. They went up the Hudson River and the Hudson and that is why it is called the Henry Hudson River. Little bit of history here at the Jersey shore.
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Super awesome bike shop. It was originally the post office back in the 50’s or 60’s (?)… now is a locally owned bike shop with some of Lance Armstrong’s old TDF bikes on display. Great people, awesome atmosphere. They have all sorts of stuff there and good mechanics as well.
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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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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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Nestled along the Jersey Shore, Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, charms with its coastal allure. Picturesque marinas, historic architecture, and vibrant community spirit create a delightful seaside experience for residents and visitors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Highlands?
There are 8 family-friendly hiking trails around Highlands, with 7 of them rated as easy and one as moderate, making them suitable for various family skill levels.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Highlands?
The trails around Highlands generally feature gentle elevation changes, making them accessible for families. For example, the Henry Hudson Trail has minimal elevation gain, while the Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop offers a bit more variety with around 134 meters of ascent.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, several routes offer a convenient loop format. The Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop is a moderate 8.9 km circular hike, and the Rocky Point and Battery Loop Trail is an easy 4.6 km loop, perfect for a family outing.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions we can see while hiking?
While exploring the trails, you can discover several points of interest. The historic Sandy Hook Lighthouse is a notable landmark. You might also encounter the Shrewsbury River Bridge or enjoy sections of the Forest Trail in Hartshorne Woods Park.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Highlands?
The trails in Highlands are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars from 12 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic views and well-maintained paths, making them enjoyable for families.
Are there any trails that offer views of the water?
Given the proximity to the coast, many trails in Highlands offer beautiful water views. Routes like the Henry Hudson Trail and those around Rocky Point are likely to provide scenic vistas of the surrounding waterways and coastline.
What is the longest easy family hike available?
The longest easy family hike is the Rocky Point Downhill Section – Highlands of Navesink loop from Highlands, which spans approximately 6.9 kilometers and takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete.
What is the shortest easy family hike?
For a shorter family adventure, consider the Rocky Point Downhill Section – Rocky Point Trail loop from Highlands. This easy route is about 3.6 kilometers long and can be completed in just under an hour.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for a leisurely stroll with kids?
Absolutely! The Henry Hudson Trail is an excellent choice for a leisurely stroll. It's an easy 4.2 km route with minimal elevation, making it very accessible for families with younger children.
Can we combine hiking with other activities in the Highlands area?
Yes, the area offers more than just hiking. You can explore the facilities and charm of Atlantic Highlands, which is a nearby highlight. Some trails, like the Bike Lane at Hartshorne Drive, also suggest opportunities for cycling.
What is the average duration for these family-friendly hikes?
The family-friendly hikes around Highlands vary in duration. Easy routes can take anywhere from about 1 hour to 1 hour 50 minutes, while the moderate Rocky Point and Grand Tour Loop typically takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes.
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