5 Hikes With the Best Sunset Views in New Jersey

Is there anything more beautiful than a sunset? If you ask me, the only answer is "a New Jersey sunset." The Garden State may be a densely packed, busy state, but there are still many places to find a peaceful refuge to watch the sun disappear over the water. It's no surprise that the Jersey Shore is the most amazing spot for sunset views, but there are far more choices for the best sunset hikes in New Jersey than just the beach. Below I've outlined some of my favorite sunset hiking destinations, which include natural refuges, peaceful trails, and river banks. All these trails are easy or moderate, and all of them have a modest elevation gain that should be feasible for all skill levels. The other thing they all have in common? If you time your hike right, you'll be rewarded with a remarkable view.

1. Dune and Pompano Trail Loop (Manasquan)

One of the most peaceful spots in New Jersey, the Dune and Pompano Trail Loop is a 0.7-mile beach loop trail with incredible views of the nearby reservoir. This trail is rarely crowded, which means it's a fantastic spot to relax and watch the sunset progress. And while you're in Manasquan, make sure to try some of their amazing burgers.

2. High Point Monument (Wantage)

The thing about popular tourist spots is that sometimes, they really are that good. It's impossible to beat the views from High Point Monument, and the 2.8-mile hike to get there is well worth the effort. The 515-foot elevation gain is the stiffest of this list, but the trail is very well maintained and usually pretty busy. Come early and prepare to be amazed.

3. Barnegat Lighthouse Trail (Barnegat Light)

Another incredibly popular spot, the Barnegat Lighthouse Trail clocks in at 1.7 miles for an easy and relaxing hike. This beautiful spot is not only home to the state's most famous lighthouse, but to incredible ocean views. Dogs aren't allowed here, but there's plenty of room to spread out and watch the sun go down.

4. Songbird Trail Loop (Galloway Township)

The Songbird Trail Loop is a slightly more rugged trail and the longest at 4.7 miles. It is located in the heart of Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. While it only gains 177 feet in elevation, you can expect some slightly uneven terrain in the wetlands. This is an amazing spot for birdwatching, and the moderately popular trail feels like a whole new world when the sun goes down.

5. Red Bank Battlefield Trail (National Park)

One of my favorite small parks in New Jersey, Red Bank Battlefield (not actually located in the town of Red Bank!) is a hidden gem in Gloucester County with incredible views of the Delaware River. The hike is just one mile and takes you around the park, and the nearby pier is an amazing spot to watch as the water turns shimmering colors with the setting sun.

Have you taken any of the best sunset hikes in New Jersey yet? If not, it's the perfect time to tell a hiking buddy about this article and pick your favorite spot. While most of these hikes are fairly easy to navigate, I still like to have AllTrails+ with me when I hike. This mobile app offers point-by-point directions and downloadable trail guides that are incredibly helpful if you get turned around on the trail.