The best walks and hikes around Califon

Yes, the region offers several gentle trails perfect for families. The Hiking loop from Washington is a great option, offering a relatively flat 3.3-mile (5.3 km) path. For a very scenic and easy walk, the trails within Ken Lockwood Gorge are highly recommended, running alongside the Raritan River on mostly level ground.

Many trails in the Califon area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. Popular spots like the Columbia Trail and Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area are great for walks with a canine companion. However, be aware that Hacklebarney State Park has seasonal restrictions and does not permit dogs from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

For a route that prominently features a waterfall, the Lake Solitude and Waterfall loop from High Bridge is your best bet. This moderate 8.1-mile (13 km) hike includes views of both the waterfall and the serene Lake Solitude.

If you're looking for a more strenuous outing, consider the Hiking loop from Glen Gardner. This 5.2-mile (8.3 km) moderate trail involves over 570 feet (174 m) of elevation gain through varied woodland. For other challenging options nearby, Teetertown Ravine Nature Preserve and Point Mountain are known for their rugged and rocky climbs.

The trails around Califon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the area's natural beauty, especially the scenic riverside paths along the Raritan and Black Rivers and the peaceful, dense woodlands found in the local parks and preserves.

Ken Lockwood Gorge is a local favorite, known for its exceptional natural beauty. The main trail is a relatively easy, level path that follows the South Branch of the Raritan River. You can expect picturesque views of the water flowing over moss-covered boulders, surrounded by a dense forest. It's also a very popular spot for fly-fishing.

Yes, many trails are well-suited for running. The Columbia Trail is an excellent choice, offering over 15 miles of wide, level path with a packed dirt and gravel surface. For runners seeking more of a challenge with hills, the trails in Voorhees State Park and Teetertown Ravine offer more rugged terrain and elevation changes.

There are several access points with parking for the Columbia Trail. In Califon, you can often find parking near the historic train station, which serves as a direct access point. Another popular parking area is located in High Bridge, at the southern end of the trail, which provides a great starting point for hikes heading north through Ken Lockwood Gorge.

Restroom availability varies. State Parks like Hacklebarney and Voorhees typically have restroom facilities near their main entrances or parking areas. However, more remote trailheads and multi-use paths like the Columbia Trail have limited or no facilities along the route, so it's best to plan accordingly.

The area is rich with highly-regarded parks for hiking.

Hacklebarney State Park is a top-rated destination where you can hike along the Black River on rocky trails. The Hacklebarney State Park loop via Riverside Trail is a popular route there.

Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area is another favorite, celebrated for its stunning riverside scenery and relatively easy trails.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find wide, flat, and level gravel paths like the Columbia Trail, which is a former rail-trail. In contrast, parks like Hacklebarney State Park and Teetertown Ravine Nature Preserve feature more rugged, rocky, and steep trails that follow river gorges and climb through hilly woodlands.

Absolutely. Califon has a charming historic downtown with well-preserved Victorian architecture. You can explore the Califon Historic District or visit local spots like Rambo's Country Store for a bite to eat. The historic train station, now a museum, is also worth a visit.