Photo Credit: Emma Levine
Photo Credit: Emma Levine
Photo Credit: Emma Levine
Photo Credit: Emma Levine
Photo Credit: Emma Levine
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By Emma Levine, HCRHS Rising Senior
Published July 17, 2023 at 8:00 AM
HUNTERDON COUNTY, NJ - One of the more notable qualities of Hunterdon County is its locations for activities such as hiking and swimming.
An enticing quality of most of these locations is the cost – free!
Here are what I think are the best, free spots to hike and swim in the county.
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Columbia Trail is located right in the Borough of High Bridge. There is free parking, and after a quick skip across the street, you’re at the beginning of the trail. The trail is 15 miles long and ends up in Washington Township. Feel free to turn around whenever. Some parts of the trail are canopied, which make it a more ideal summer trail, but plenty of parts allow the sun to shine through. Local tip: be sure to check out the gnome houses that are along the trail and find your favorite!
Frequently dominated by bikers, walking the Frenchtown towpath is an excellent way to spend time outdoors and be rewarded along the way with some spots on the river for swimming. Beginning right in the heart of Frenchtown, the towpath is part of the D&R Canal Towpath. You can take it all the way to Lambertville, or just stroll for as long as your heart desires. Feel free to enjoy the hidden gems that are the Frenchtown stores afterwards. Local tip: be prepared for some potential ankle-twisting when hiking down to the water by wearing good sneakers.
On the opposite end of the towpath, the Lambertville Towpath runs right along the Delaware and is less covered than other places, so save this one for a cooler day! Local tip: go to the wingdam! Concrete instead of sand, the wingdam is a great place for a dip in the Delaware. The wingdam is unlike a conventional dam, and only extends partway into the river. It is a perfect spot to swim as the current isn’t too fast. Just be aware of snakes.
Right by the Flemington YMCA, Deer Path Park is 104 acres and offers many different trails, depending on your expertise level and aptness to challenge. More geared toward hiking and running, rather than biking, it is quieter in comparison to some of these other locations. However, with YMCA camp going on, you can expect it to be a bit busier in the summer. Be prepared to check for ticks afterward and maybe rethink your clothing choices prior to hiking.
Offering both free hiking and swimming, Round Valley is a popular attraction for those who fish, swim and hike. There are seven top trails that all range in difficulty and time to complete them. Post-hike, swimming is permitted in the designated swimming area when lifeguards are on duty. The lake is about 180 feet deep, making it an acceptable swimming alternative to the ocean (no waves, of course). You didn’t hear it from me, but if you want to swim in a less crowded area, know that you can try in the boating area. Take this with a grain of salt and don’t say I told you.
Pick a location that’s closest to you (or sounds the most fun) and hike, swim or walk as you please!
Hunterdon Central student Emma Levine will explore different topics of importance to students, and will speak to school administration, teachers and students about their thoughts.