The best walks and hikes in Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
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Hikes in Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge explore a coastal landscape along the Atlantic Flyway. The refuge consists of more than 48,000 acres, with the terrain primarily made up of salt marshes, shallow coves, and sections of woodland. Most trails are flat and follow boardwalks or unpaved paths, making it a popular area for birdwatching and easy hikes for families.
Best hiking trails in Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
- The most popular hiking route is Secluded Cove via deCamp Wildlife Trail — Edwin Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, a 2.6 mile (4.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour to complete. This easy route follows a path through the Brigantine Unit, offering views of the surrounding wetlands.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Cedar Bonnet Island — Ocean County, an easy 1.5 mile (2.3 km) path. The trail is a loop that provides an accessible walk through the island's coastal habitat.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park — Ocean County, a 0.8 mile (1.4 km) trail leading through a state park, often completed in about 20 minutes.
- Hiking in Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is defined by coastal paths, salt marsh boardwalks, and flat woodland trails. The network of 25 routes offers options for different ability levels, with 21 easy hikes available.
- The routes in Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a number of reviews. More than 140 hikers have used komoot to explore Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.68km
01:12
20m
20m
The Bristow Trail offers a delightful and easy escape into nature, winding through the diverse upland habitats of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. You'll experience a gentle 2.9-mile (4.7 km) hike with only 58 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect route for a relaxed outing. Keep your eyes peeled for the numerous migratory songbirds that call this area home, providing a serene and engaging experience for about 1 hour and 11 minutes.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is open year-round, so you can enjoy its beauty in any season. It's also a dog-friendly option, allowing you to bring your leashed pet along for the adventure. This easy route is ideal for those seeking a short, accessible walk without significant logistical hurdles.
Located within the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, this trail is part of a crucial habitat for a wide array of wildlife, particularly migratory birds. The refuge's focus on preserving these upland environments means you're walking through an important ecological area. It's a fantastic spot to connect with nature and observe the local fauna in a protected setting.
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4.16km
01:03
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The deCamp Wildlife Trail offers a delightful, easy escape into nature, winding through diverse landscapes that include peaceful oak and pine woods, freshwater wetlands, and a vibrant saltmarsh. You'll enjoy a scenic wooden boardwalk stretching over wetlands and a creek, eventually reaching a secluded cove at Barnegat Bay. This easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hike, with just 12 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, refreshing outing.
Planning your visit is straightforward; the trail is open year-round, and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash. Parking is readily available at the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, where the trailhead is located. It's a great option for those looking for a family friendly and dog friendly outdoor activity.
As part of the 47,000-acre Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, the deCamp Wildlife Trail is a significant link for seasonal bird migration, attracting thousands of species each spring and fall, making it a prime spot for wildlife spotting. The trail also offers fishing opportunities at its end and has been meticulously restored after Superstorm Sandy, showcasing the resilience of this important natural area.
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2
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2.35km
00:36
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Hike the easy 1.5-mile Cedar Bonnet Island Trail in Manahawkin, offering bay views, birdwatching, and ADA-compliant paths.
26.9km
06:43
10m
10m
Hike 16.7 miles along the Jersey Shore from Mantoloking Beach to the lively Seaside Heights Casino Pier, a challenging coastal journey.
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6.55km
01:41
30m
30m
Enjoy an easy 4.1-mile hike on the Island Heights Loop, featuring waterfront views, historic homes, and marinas along the Toms River.
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Popular around Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
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At the end of the deCamp Wildlife Trail in the Edwin Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, hikers can discover a secluded cove. This serene spot is perfect for relaxing and soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
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The deCamp Wildlife Trail is a well-groomed path that passes through oak and pine woods to takes you to Barnaget Bay. As you get further along the trail, the traffic noise disappears and you are in the middle of nature.
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Cedar Bonnet Island offers a serene walk with stunning views from all angles. The beginning of the trail can be buggy, so it's best to bring bug spray or hike on a windy day to keep the insects at bay.
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Casino Pier is a beachside amusement park that opened its doors in 1932. It was partially destroyed by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, reopened with limited rides in 2013, and expanded in 2017 with a brand new roller coaster and Ferris wheel. Today, the park is doing well, and visitors can go on rides, play games, and buy concessions.
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Mantoloking Beach is known for its wider beach, clean sands, and being surrounded by mansions. The beach needed a lot of restoration after Hurricane Sandy in 2012 but today is a wonderful spot to enjoy the New Jersey Shore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails at Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge?
No, pets are not permitted on any of the trails, in the Visitor Information Center, or along the Wildlife Drive within the refuge. This rule is in place to protect the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.
What are the best easy hikes for families?
The refuge is ideal for family outings, with 21 easy hikes available. Many trails are flat and follow boardwalks over salt marshes. For a very short and accessible walk, consider the Akers Woodland Trail, which is a 0.4-mile loop. Another great option is the Seaside Heights Casino Pier loop from Seaside Heights, which offers a pleasant walk along the coast.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails?
Yes, the refuge offers accessible options. The Akers Woodland Trail is a 0.4-mile accessible loop through a woodland environment. Additionally, portions of the Leeds Eco-Trail feature a boardwalk over the tidal salt marsh, which may be suitable for wheelchairs.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The refuge is a world-renowned birding hotspot located on the Atlantic Flyway. You can see a huge variety of waterfowl, wading birds, shorebirds, and songbirds. Depending on the season, you might spot snowy owls, hawks, and migrating warblers. On warm, low-tide days near the salt marshes, you might even see fiddler crabs.
What are the trail conditions like?
Most trails in the refuge are flat and well-maintained, making for easy walking. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including unpaved paths through woodlands, sandy trails on barrier islands, and boardwalks that cross over tidal salt marshes. The landscape is defined by its coastal habitats and wetlands.
Can I just drive through the refuge instead of hiking?
Yes, the 8-mile, one-way Wildlife Drive is a popular attraction that allows you to experience the refuge's wetlands and woodlands from your vehicle. It provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and has several pull-offs, observation towers, and an observation deck. The drive also provides access to the starting points for several hiking trails if you decide you want to stretch your legs.
What do other hikers think of the trails in the refuge?
The hiking routes in Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge are very highly rated by the komoot community, earning an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible birdwatching opportunities and the peaceful, scenic beauty of the coastal salt marshes.
Are there any long or challenging hikes available?
While most trails are easy, there are a few options for a longer day out. The Bristow Trail is a 2.7-mile route through upland habitats, and you can connect it with other paths to create a longer loop. For a truly challenging coastal trek, the Mantoloking Beach to Seaside Heights Casino Pier — Ocean County route is a difficult, 16.7-mile (26.9 km) hike along the shore.
What are the opening hours for the trails?
The refuge's outdoor areas, including the trails and Wildlife Drive, are open daily from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Information Center has separate, more limited hours. For the most current information on hours, fees, and any potential closures, it's best to check the official Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge website.
What should I bring for a hike in the refuge?
It's wise to wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for unpaved paths. Since the area is a coastal wetland, insect repellent is highly recommended, especially in warmer months. Also, bring binoculars for birdwatching, a camera for the scenic views, and plenty of water. Sunscreen and a hat are also important as many trails are exposed.
Where are the best spots for photography?
The entire refuge is a photographer's paradise. The observation towers along the Wildlife Drive offer elevated perspectives for capturing vast wetland landscapes and flocks of birds. The Leeds Eco-Trail boardwalk provides opportunities for up-close shots of the salt marsh ecosystem. For wildflowers, the Cedar Bonnet Island — Ocean County trail is an excellent choice.
Most popular routes in Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
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