The Redwoods are famous for their size, but they are equally famous for their connection to the landscape. The same could be said of the Pine Barrens of New Jersey, also known as the Pinelands. Of course, these trees aren't nearly as tall as the Redwoods, but they are equally significant to the region. In fact, they account for the largest Atlantic coastal pine barren ecosystem in the U.S., stretching across seven counties. You'll see what makes this tract of forest so unique when you explore the Batona Trail.
Did you know that the nation's first natural reserve is right here in New Jersey? That's right; the Pine Barrens are comprised of 1.1 million acres that were protected by the federal government in 1978.
To give you an idea of how vast the Pinelands are, they make up 22% of New Jersey's total landmass.
Plus, the Pinelands are home to an incredibly diverse array of animal and plant life. Everything from cranberries to orchids can thrive here!
Have you ever wondered, "How did the Pine Barrens get their name"? It's an interesting story.
Settlers from Europe believed the sandy, acidic soil wouldn't work for farming, so they left the land relatively untouched. What they didn't realize was that beneath the forest, there was a natural reservoir of chemically-pure water. Today, the Pinelands replenish the Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer, measuring nearly 3,000 square miles.
Exploring the Pine Barrens is an adventure that could last from a couple hours to a few weeks. There's so much to explore!
One of the most popular ways to experience this biosphere is by hiking. The Batona Trail is a 51.3-mile trail that winds its way through the reserve.
In addition to hiking, there are plenty of opportunities for getting on the water, too.
Photographed below is Apple Pie Hill in Wharton State Forest, the tallest point in the region.
Have you explored the Pine Barrens in New Jersey recently? What did you think of your adventure? Feel free to share with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you!
For more information about this important ecosystem, be sure to check out the Pinelands Preservation Alliance. It's here that you can also learn more about guided tours, activities, and adventures.
For just a glimpse into what makes this region so special, watch the brief video below on some of the unique things that grow in the Pinelands:
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