Hiking NJ: Sourland Mountain Preserve in Somerset County [VIDEO]

In this latest webisode of Hiking NJ, take a trip to Sourland Mountain Preserve in Hillsborough, Somerset County. This was a fantastic trip and a challenging hike as well.

Sourland Mountain Preserve is a beautiful hike and depending on how far/long you want to hike it will determine how hard it can be. Sourland Mountain is about 600 feet above sea level, so the height isn't really "mountain" like, but for New Jersey it's a good incline.

One of Sourlands' biggest obstacles is its rocky terrain. The area has lots of rock and mud, so make sure you have good "hiking" shoes because they will get dirty. We did the "Ridge Trail" which is about 5 miles and takes you through all the "tough" rocky spots at the Preserve. There is also the Maple Flats Trail (1.4 mile), Pondside Trail (0.5 mile) and Roaring Brook Trail (2.1 mile).

When hiking, follow the Somerset County Parks tags which are tree markers and also the numbered posts. I would print the park map at home and bring with you, there were no maps available at the time we hiked and reading off the phone was difficult. Print and bring a copy which will make your hike easier knowing where you are located....it's a big park.

The Ridge Trail is definitely a "moderate" level hike and at times it might even qualify as difficult due to rocks, mud and water. I used a walking stick. It was a good workout. Lots of visitors to this park there is parking, but only portable restrooms available.