The Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Hike You’ll Find in New Jersey

When Valentine's Day rolls around, every couple makes different plans. Some have booked a dinner at the most romantic restaurant in town. Others are avoiding the crowds and staying in for a cosy night of movies and home-cooked food. And others are looking forward to the next day, when all the candy is on sale at Target! And then there are those couples who would rather celebrate the big V-day with a brisk hike in the great outdoors. Mid-February isn't top hiking season, so the crowds are likely to be pretty small - which is perfect for intimate walks. The most romantic hiking trails in New Jersey range from bucolic garden hikes, to challenging treks to stunning vistas, and waterfront jaunts that show New Jersey at their best. The one thing they all have in common is that they feel a little bit more beautiful and unique when you're with that special someone.

1. Colonial Park Gardens and Arboretum Loop (Somerset)

There's nothing more romantic than a botanical garden hike, of course, and this peaceful location is found in a laid-back county park. During each season of the year, you'll be greeted by an array of colorful flowers on this one-mile loop trail - including the famous rose garden - and during the winter you're likely to find a peaceful landscape often covered in snow.

2. Ringwood Manor Trail (Ringwood)

Ringwood Manor is one of the most beautiful spots in New Jersey, and this is an ideal hike for couples who love architecture. This three-mile loop trail takes you by the historic manor and through the grounds, making this hike almost like a scavenger hunt to find the countless sculptures and peaceful enclaves hidden among the park.

3. Stairway to Heaven (Hewitt)

The most famous overlook in New Jersey is all the more breathtaking when you're with someone you love. This 2.6-mile out-and-back trail in Wawayanda State Park is a moderate route, the most challenging on this route, and it'll take you to an iconic vista that looks especially stunning when the sun is about to set.

4. Black River Trail Loop (Chester)

One of the longer hikes on this list, this 6.3-mile loop trail in Black River County Park offers a diversity of experiences that are hard to find. You'll not only visit historic buildings including a famous grist mill, but there are beautiful small waterfalls along the way. The hike can be a little rocky, but a good pair of hiking boots is all that's needed.

5. Hudson River Waterfront Walkway (Edgewater)

Edgewater is one of my favorite towns in New Jersey, home to an amazing shopping and dining scene - and stunning waterfront views of New York City. A 5.0-mile out-and-back trail will take you all along the waterfront for an easy, peaceful hike with plenty of places to sit and relax. And if you want to head across the river afterwards, a ferry is available in Weehawken.

6. Asbury Boardwalk (Asbury Park)

For me, there is no more iconic New Jersey activity to do with someone I love than strolling a beachside boardwalk. My personal favorite has to be the Asbury Park boardwalk, which is packed with unique attractions and historic buildings. The boardwalk can be walked as part of an 8.7-mile point-to-point trail between Long Branch and Avon-by-the-Sea, or you can head directly to Asbury Park for some fun no matter the season!

Have you taken any of these romantic hiking trails in New Jersey with your significant other? If any of them sound like the perfect Valentine's Day escape, tell that special someone and make plans for you own hike! When it comes to winter hiking, we always recommend a subscription to AllTrails + - this downloadable app is so convenient when you're in remote areas, thanks to its detailed, point-by-point trail guides that can be downloaded for when you're in an area with no cell service.