Places to Hike around Point Pleasant

Hey families! If you're looking for a fun and scenic place to hit the trails, Allaire State Park is a great spot just a short drive from Point Pleasant. The park has a bunch of well-marked hiking trails that wind through beautiful forested areas, perfect for all skill levels. What makes it extra special is the historic Allaire Village tucked right in the middle of the park?an old 19th-century ironworks community where you can explore old buildings, watch blacksmith demos, and maybe even catch a weekend event. It?s like a hike and history lesson all in one!

If you're up for more outdoor exploring, there are plenty of other family-friendly hiking spots nearby. The Manasquan Reservoir in Howell has a beautiful 5-mile trail that loops around the water, offering peaceful views and lots of chances to spot birds and wildlife. Over in Toms River, Cattus Island County Park has easygoing trails through salt marshes and woods, plus a nature center the kids will love. And don?t miss Shark River Park in Neptune?another great spot with wooded trails, little bridges, and quiet spots for a mid-hike picnic. Each place offers something unique, so there?s always a new trail to discover with the whole crew!

If you are looking for more of a challenge, we always recommended Hartshorne Woods in northern Monmouth. You will not be let down!

Places to Hike in and around Point Pleasant Beach!

The 8 locations below are found within 15 miles from downtown Point Pleasant Beach

view by: Distance City Location Name

1: Manasquan River Wildlife Management Area (WMA)

Located along the Manasquan River, Manasquan River Wildlife Management Area is a haven for wildlife from the heavily developed surrounding area. It contains hiking and biking trails throughout the property. And since this is a WMA, hunting is permitted during a good portion of the year.

Eastern Address: Ramshorn Drive, Allenwood, New Jersey 08720
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Distance: 3.87 miles from downtown PPB
More on GoNJ: www.getoutsidenj.com/places/manasquan-river-wildlife-management-area-new-jersey/

2: Multiuse Trails in Allaire State Park

A network of trails winds through the park, providing opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Several moderate hiking trails are in the main day-use area of the park, accessible from the main parking area. The South Side area of the park is approximately 800 acres of varying terrain and has miles of unmarked trails and four primarily marked multi-use trails. The South Side trails are accessible from a trailhead at a large gravel parking lot on Hospital Road. Don't forget cross-country skiing in the winter, and you can even find some hills to sled in if you hike a bit.

Address: Main parking lot is on Hospital Road,, Wall Township, NJ 07727
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Distance: 6.25 miles from downtown PPB
Website: https://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/allaire.html
More on GoNJ: www.getoutsidenj.com/places/multiuse-trails-in-allaire-state-park/

3: Allaire State Park

Allaire state park offers biking, a historical village, hiking, railroads, trails, fishing, deep woods, and many acres to explore.

Mailing Address: 4265 Atlantic Ave., Farmingdale, NJ 07727
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Distance: 6.30 miles from downtown PPB
State Website: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/allaire.html
More on GoNJ: www.getoutsidenj.com/places/allaire-state-park-nj/

4: Bear Swamp Natural Area

Bear Swamp Natural Area is a small park in Howell, New Jersey, that offers walking, horseback riding, birding and more.

Address: 351- 399 Maxim Rd,, Howell, NJ 07731
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Distance: 7.68 miles from downtown PPB
Land Managed By Howell: http://www.twp.howell.nj.us/114/Recreational-Activities
More on GoNJ: www.getoutsidenj.com/places/bear-swamp-natural-area.howell.monmouth-county.new-jersey/

5: Shark River Park

Shark River Park offers outdoor fun, for the whole family. You will find trails for walking, hiking and biking. As well as playgrounds, open fields, a fishing pond and more.

Address: 1101 Schoolhouse Road, Wall, New Jersey 07753
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Distance: 7.90 miles from downtown PPB
Phone: (732) 922-4080
Website: http://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/Page.aspx?ID=2537
More on GoNJ: www.getoutsidenj.com/places/shark-river-park/

6: Cattus Island County Park

Cattus Island County Park spans almost 500 acres and has a nature center, miles of trails (many with lovely vistas of the adjacent Silver Bay), a nice playground and some picnic tables.

Address: 1170 Cattus Island Blvd., Toms River, New Jersey 08753, Ocean County
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Distance: 8.39 miles from downtown PPB
Phone: (732) 270-6960
Website: http://www.co.ocean.nj.us/parks/cattus.html
More on GoNJ: www.getoutsidenj.com/places/cattus-island-county-park/

7: Manasquan Reservoir

The reservoir is the pride Monmouth County park system offering many great activities, both through the park system and on your own.

Business: 311 Windeler Road,, Howell, New Jersey 07731,
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Distance: 10.12 miles from downtown PPB
Visitor Center: (732) 919-0996
Website: http://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/page.aspx?Id=2531
Environmental Center
More on GoNJ: www.getoutsidenj.com/places/manasquan-reservoir/

8: Jakes Branch County Park

Jakes Branch County Park offers a balance of active and passive recreation opportunities. The nature center in the park will highlight the beauty, history, and natural surroundings of the Pine Barrens. Don't forget the huge playground and playground hiking trail!