If There Are Only 5 Hikes You Ever Do In New Jersey, Make Them These

I am lucky to be able to write about New Jersey's most beautiful places and always glad to share some of the most spectacular with you. There are just so many amazing spots in the Garden State; we've got a lot more nature than out-of-staters expect. That may be why this is one of the hardest articles I've ever written. With so many fantastic hikes to choose from, selecting just five of the best hikes in New Jersey was very difficult. Each of these trails offers something special, from waterfalls to sprawling views and even a little magic...

1. Mount Tammany

A hike up Mount Tammany had to make this list, as it was recently selected by USA Today as one of the most awe-inspiring hikes in America. You can expect sweeping mountain and river landscapes atop Mount Tammany's 1,526′ peak. The most popular trek is a challenging 3.5-mile hike that loops the blue and red dot trails. It's a bit steep, but absolutely worth it. To learn more about hiking Mount Tammany, visit our guide.

2. Appalachian Trail

This iconic trail spans 2200 miles from Maine to Georgia, and we're fortunate enough to host 72.2 of those miles here in New Jersey. Hike as much or as little of it as you want, but I'd recommend hiking across Pochuck Boardwalk, up the Stairway To Heaven, finally reaching Pinwheel Vista (pictured). The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and scenic enough in its own right; the entire journey spans 7.3 miles and does contain some steeper, rocky sections. For more details and directions, visit our guide.

3. Apple Pie Hill

There are plenty of hiking opportunities in Wharton State Forest, but there's only one Apple Pie Hill - the highest point in the Pinelands. It comes in at 209 feet above sea level and offers a 60-foot fire tower for an added boost. From the top of the tower, you'll see scenes like this - trees for miles. The tower was once open 24/7 but is now only accessible when a staffer is on-site. That's usually daily, until sundown. Located along the BaToNa trail, you can make this hike as long or as short as you'd like. There's a parking area right near the tower, if you want to enjoy the views without a hike. However, I'd recommend exploring more of Wharton State Forest. For details on other attractions in the park, visit our guide.

4. Wyanokie High Point

Located in Norvin Green State Forest, hikers will enjoy sprawling views in all directions. You'll see mountains to the west and New York City to the east (on a clear day). The ideal High Point hike spans 7.7 miles and takes you past Otter Hole and the lovely Chikahoki Falls. If you'd like to extend your hike, head north to Highlands Natural Pool. For the info you'll need to know, visit our guide.

5. Manasquan Reservoir

This drinking reservoir and county park offers a plethora of activities including several trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Trails range from .2 miles to 5.1 miles and span from easy to moderate. My recommendation is the Cove Trail, a 1-mile nature trail that explores the area around the environmental center. It's for pedestrians only, and hikers will enjoy wetland and woodland views. One may spot cardinals, blue jays and even bald eagles. Around 200 avian species call the area home. Though especially magical in the winter, it's a beautiful hike any time of year. For more information on the trails here, visit our guide.

I'm sure everyone will have opinions on this and I'd love to hear them. Please feel free to share your favorite hikes with us! For other incredible hikes all over New Jersey, check out this list: Easy Hikes In New Jersey. For a great hike to take with kids, check out the Fairy Trail.