Columbia Trail (Photo Credit: Tara Shepherd)
There is still plenty of time to view the beautiful fall foliage in Hunterdon County. Here are three favorite road, mountain, and trail bicycle routes that are currently offering spectacular views of the changing foliage.
FAMILY FRIENDLY TRAIL RIDING: The Columbia Trail
This family-friendly bicycle route will take you along an umbrella of colorful leaves and ever changing views. The Columbia Trail was built along an abandoned trail line that goes from High Bridge, through Califon, and into Long Valley.
Stop at the spectacular Ken Lockwood Gorge, named one of the “Ten Most Beautiful Places in New Jersey” by New Jersey Monthly Magazine. The Gorge is accessible approximately 1 mile into the Columbia Trail. Looking down into the gorge, you will often see fly fishermen and crystal clear waters.
In addition to gorgeous foliage, there are many wonderful things to see and do along the trail. Starting about one mile in from the trailhead in High Bridge, the falls at Lake Solitude is worth the short walk off bike.
For those interested in geocaching, there are several caches located along the trail. You will also find a number of “gnome homes” that dot the trail edges.
The Columbia Trail route is a wonderful ride for families, hybrid riders or experienced cyclists. Get more information here.
MOUNTAIN BIKING: Nassau Trail
Mountain bikers are increasingly drawn to Hunterdon County with the ever expanding system of the Nassau Trail. Nestled into the hills of High Bridge, this very well maintained route system offers a route for every level of rider. The Nassau Trail is a perfect venue for viewing fall foliage. Whether you are riding the rocky, single track and technical northern section of the system, or the mostly flat less technical areas, the forest setting display of colors will embrace your senses.
High Bridge offers a great new brewery, awesome restaurants and a wonderful bicycling friendly coffee shop for after riding replenishment. The town’s unique setting can be accessed by NJ Transit’s Raritan Valley Rail Line during the week. A municipal parking lot is available and bike racks are located throughout the downtown.
Click here for more information on the Nassau Trail.
RIDING ON THE ROAD: The Hogback
Hunterdon is home to many roads that meander through beautiful farmland and hills that lead to some really spectacular views. If you enjoy challenging climbs followed by fast flat roads, “The Hogback” route, named for Hogback Road, Franklin Township, will not disappoint. It will be well worth the grind when you see the amazing autumnal views at the top of the Hogback.
The 30 mile route begins at V5 Cycles in Raritan Township and winds its way from the Flemington area, through historic Clinton, Franklin Township, and then back to Flemington, with one of the nicest five mile descents. Within a few miles, you will leave cars behind and instead be accompanied by quiet and the flowing Raritan River on your right and horse farms to your left. Once to Hogback Road, be sure to stop at the very top to take in the colors of the 360 degree view. The remaining part of the route is every bit as beautiful with bucolic farmland dotting the landscape. Historic Pittstown offers ample opportunity to replenish water bottles and grab a snack or light meal before the return to Flemington.
For more information about The Hogback, click here.
Information provided by goHunterdon, as part of the Bike Hunterdon initiative. goHunterdon, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable transportation in Hunterdon County, NJ.
And to read our previous article about biking and hiking in Hunterdon County, click here.
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