You don’t need to be in amazing shape to enjoy an amazing hike. New Jersey has a variety of shorter trails (some of which are wheelchair and stroller accessible) that almost anyone can enjoy. One of our shortest and most scenic hikes can be found in the lovely little town of Franklin.
The Franklin Park Nature Trail was created by Erin Kidd for their Girl Scout Gold Award Project.
YouTube/Johhny B. TV
The trail offers lovely pond, mountain, and waterfall views.
YouTube/Johnny B. TV
You’ll even spot a few tiny islands!
YouTube/Johnny B. TV
The trail is part of Borough Park and offers its own lot.
Image/Google Maps
Best of all, this trail is just .25 miles in total! Mostly level, it takes just about 10 minutes to complete.
Image/NJHiking.com
There’s a bench at the end to relax and you’re also welcome to fish.
Image/NJHiking.com
If you’d like to take a longer hike, this trail connects to the Eagle Point Loop. Made by local Boy Scout, Sean Inglis, this trail will take your total hike time to 20+ minutes at a casual pace.
Image/NJHiking.com
If you don’t live nearby, this hike is still worth a drive. It’s right next to the Franklin Mineral Museum!
Facebook/Franklin Mineral Museum
For more info and a scavenger hunt that goes along with the trail, check out NJHiking.com. (Click on “Franklin Pond Info Packet” for the hunt.) For an amazing drone video of the park, highlighting the incredible views, check out the footage below by YouTube user, Johhnybtv. Be sure to view in high definition for the most breathtaking experience!
YouTube/Johhny B. TV
YouTube/Johnny B. TV
Image/Google Maps
Image/NJHiking.com
Facebook/Franklin Mineral Museum
Find the Franklin Nature Trail at the intersection of Franklin Avenue and Hospital Road (behind Franklin Borough Park and the police station). To discover other short, scenic hiking trails around the Garden State, check out our list of 15 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In New Jersey Should Take.
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