Feeling extra stuffed from that delicious Thanksgiving dinner? Get up and get active this weekend with one of these scenic trails in South Jersey. You don’t have to travel far to walk, jog or bike off those scrumptious calories.
Estell Manor Park
Distance: 1.5 miles to 2.2 miles
Begin at parking lot (Collins Road and Purple Heart Drive)
109 Boulevard Route 50
Mays Landing
609-645-5960
What to do: The Exercise Trail is perfect for a walk, jog or biking trip. If you want some extra activity stop at one of the exercise stations along the trail to work off a few more calories. For a longer trip, take Loop Road (2.2 miles), but keep an eye out for cars, this paved road is mult-purposed.
Whitesbog
Distance: 0.2 miles +
Begin at Visitors Center
120 W Whites Bogs Road
Browns Mills
609-893-4646
What to do: Explore this historic spot for its cranberry bogs, blueberry fields and forests – a perfect choice for beginners. A trip down the Old Bog Trail (0.2 miles) will take you through an old cranberry bog and the Tree Trail gives you a chance to browse the dozens of tree species in the village. Be sure to pick up a guide in the Visitors Center for the Tree Trail because it is not marked.
Lake Narraticon Park
Distance 1.5 miles
Begin at Lake Narraticon
Park Avenue
Swedesboro
856-467-2666, ext. 300
What to do: Keep an eye out for birds – including the Bald Eagle – while climbing this trail through the woods. Starting with a bridge over a small stream, the trail leads up some stairs to finally make a loop around the woods. After the hike (or before) enjoy views of the lake or spend some time in the playground.
Fort Mott State Park
Distance: .3 miles to 1.2 miles
Begin at Fort Mott
454 Fort Mott Road
Pennsville
856-935-3218
What to do: Take in the views from this defense system that was built for protection in 1896. Wander the Fort and surrounding fields to take in some history or stick to a specific trail – Walking Tour Trail for 1.2 miles or Parados Trail for .3 miles. No matter which option you choose, you’re bound to leave with a little history.
Cooper River Park
Distance 3.8 miles
Begin at Camden County Boat House
7050 N Park Drive
Pennsauken Township
856-661-3184
What to do: This 3.8 mile loop circles Cooper River with picnic areas, a playground, a sculpture garden and more stops to keep you entertained the whole way. Run, walk or bike along the paved path and stay on the lookout for some rowers. Plenty of rowing teams use the river for practice (mostly in the mornings).
Dune Trail
Distance: 0.9 miles
Begin at Parking Lot
USCG Entrance Street (off of Pacific Avenue, near Madison Avenue)
Wildwood
609-463-0994
What to do: For a quick walk on the beach, browse this short out-and-back trail that boasts ocean views and sandy paths. As part of the Two Mile Beach Unit of Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, this area has two observation platforms where you can observe the maritime forest. Keep in mind the beach is closed from April 1 to September 30 each year.
