Best Hiking Trails For You And Your Dog In New Jersey

Do you love to hike? Do you love to take your dogs with you? Then here is a list of some of the best hiking parks in the Garden State for you and your furry friends to enjoy.

The information came from a recent article by "Best of NJ" and it broke the parks into regions around the State. These top picks are based on feedback from local dog owners.

Jersey Shore:

• Island Beach State Park
• Manasquan Reservoir
• Estell Manor Park

Central Jersey:

• Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area
• Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve
• Watchung Reservation

South Jersey:

• Blueberry Hill
• Monroe Township Bike Trail
• Parvin State Park

North Jersey:

• Ramapo Mountain State Forest
• Morristown National Historic Park
• Kittatinny Valley State Park

Obviously, two very popular sites here in Ocean & Monmouth Counties are Island Beach and Manasquan Reservoir. I've hiked both and they are very good sites. Check out the links to the other sites and make it a day trip with your dog. It's great exercise for both of you!

Keep in mind, even though dogs are welcome in most of New Jersey’s public parks and recreation areas, pets must be kept on a leash 6 feet or less in length (unless otherwise posted) and you should always check for special rules and regulations when you hike.