The Rugged And Remote Hiking Trail In New Jersey That Is Well-Worth The Effort

New Jersey is a densely populated state, and even many of its more remote locations are often packed with tourists. When I really want to get away from it all, there's no better place to do it than on a hiking trail. Sometimes a quick hike in the woods is enough, but sometimes clearing the head calls for a more challenging hike. For a truly rugged hike that feels like you're a million miles away from the busy part of the state, head to Ringwood State Park to find the Stonetown Circular Trail. This 10.4-mile rugged trail in New Jersey is ideal for a full-day adventure, and is rated hard by AllTrails due to its challenging terrain and significant elevation. For those who take the journey, though, they'll be rewarded with some of the best views in northern New Jersey.

Look at that view! The good news is, it's perfectly reachable - but you'll have to work for it.

Rated hard by AllTrails, the Stonetown Circular Trail is 10.4 miles of challenging terrain. Bring your hiking boots and maybe some trekking poles.

You can expect to face high elevations, uneven terrain, and makeshift bridges.

You'll be passing by many small bodies of water along the way...

Along with some big, beautiful ones that provide stunning vistas to give you the energy for the rest of the way.

On your journey, you'll pass by some surprising ruins left by past visitors...

As well as some of the area's most beautiful flora. It's also a popular trail for birdwatching.

You might even come across some artistic remnants left by past hikers who left a little thing to remember them by!

Have you taken the Stonetown Circular Trail in Ringwood State Park? Tell us all about your trek on this challenging and rugged trail in New Jersey in the comments section! You can find out more about Stonetown Circular Trail on the official AllTrails listing, and check out the Ringwood State Park website for more information on the park's amenities. If you're planning a challenging hike like this, you definitely might want to subscribe to AllTrails Plus for all the site's benefits! This hike is most popular in summer and fall, but make sure to come back to explore Ringwood State Park's amazing winter season.