Apple Pie Hill Fire Tower

The Batona Trail: Carranza Memorial to Apple Pie Hill offers a distinct hiking experience through the New Jersey Pine Barrens. This easy 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route, with only 129 feet (39 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. You'll traverse sandy paths and wind through picturesque cedar swamps on boardwalks, passing the unique Carranza Memorial before reaching Apple Pie Hill, the highest point in the Pine Barrens.

Planning your visit means preparing for sandy terrain and potential sun exposure, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. While the trail is well-marked, the sandy conditions can make it feel a bit more strenuous than its easy rating suggests. The main draw is the fire tower on Apple Pie Hill, which, when open, provides expansive views of the surrounding pine forests, and even distant city skylines on clear days.

This section of the Batona Trail is notable for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, marking the site of a tragic aviation accident at the Carranza Memorial. The trail is dog-friendly, making it a great option for a leisurely walk with your canine companion. In August, you might even find wild blueberry bushes lining the path, offering a sweet treat.

The Batona Trail offers a deep dive into the unique Pine Barrens of New Jersey, a landscape unlike any other. You'll traverse sandy paths through extensive pine-oak forests, past picturesque cedar swamps, and alongside ancient cranberry bogs, with the chance to spot wildlife like white-tailed deer and hawks. The trail's name, a contraction of “BAck TO NAture,” perfectly captures the remote, wild feel of this 52.7-mile (84.8 km) hiking route.

This difficult trail, with a minimal 619 feet (189 metres) of elevation gain, is a significant undertaking, typically requiring about 21 hours and 31 minutes to complete end-to-end. While it's a popular choice for multi-day backpacking, its numerous access points also make it ideal for day hikes. If you plan an overnight trip, remember that designated campsites require a permit.

As one of New Jersey's longest trails, the Batona Trail is notable for its journey through the Pinelands National Reserve, connecting several state forests like Brendan T. Byrne State Forest. You'll encounter historical sites such as Martha's Furnace and the Apple Pie Hill Fire Tower, which offers rare panoramic views of the pine canopy, making it a rewarding experience for those seeking both nature and history.