New Jersey Brigade and Grand Loop Trail

The New Jersey Brigade Trail is part of Morristown National Historical Park. You can typically find parking at the Jockey Hollow Visitor Center or near Washington's Headquarters Museum, both of which are good starting points for accessing sections of the Patriots' Path, including this trail. It's always a good idea to check the park's official website for the most current parking information.

Yes, the New Jersey Brigade Trail, like much of the Patriots' Path system, is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and for the safety of other hikers. Always pack out any waste.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides beautiful foliage. The dense forest canopy offers good shade during warmer summer months, but be prepared for potentially muddy or slippery conditions after rain, especially in spring. Winter hiking is also possible, but some sections can be icy.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike the New Jersey Brigade Trail or other sections of the Patriots' Path within Morristown National Historical Park.

The trail meanders through dense forest with a mix of surfaces, including dirt, gravel, and natural paths. You'll encounter inclines and switchbacks, with some fairly steep hills, particularly when hiking out of the river valley. Some sections can be muddy or slippery after rain. A small footbridge crosses the Passaic River, which appears as a rocky brook in this area.

This section of the Patriots' Path is generally considered to be of intermediate or 'moderate' difficulty. While some parts are an easy stroll, others involve steep climbs uphill. Hikers with some experience will find it manageable, and hiking poles can be very helpful on the steeper sections.

The New Jersey Brigade Trail is historically significant as it runs through the New Jersey Brigade Encampment Area within Morristown National Historical Park. This is where New Jersey soldiers of the Continental Army encamped during the harsh winter of 1779-1780. Interpretive signs along the route explain the conditions faced by the army, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of Revolutionary War soldiers.

The primary points of interest are the historical markers and remnants of the New Jersey Brigade Encampment Area, where you can learn about the Revolutionary War soldiers. Additionally, the trail passes through the beautiful Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a chance to observe local flora and fauna.

Yes, the New Jersey Brigade Trail is a key section of the extensive Patriots' Path system. Along this route, you'll also find sections that overlap with the Grand Loop Trail, Blue Trail, and Red Trail, offering opportunities to extend your hike or explore different areas of the park.

Given the moderate difficulty and varied terrain, it's recommended to bring sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, and a map (as there are many intersecting trails). Hiking poles can be beneficial for the steeper sections. Depending on the season, insect repellent and layers of clothing are also advisable.

The New Jersey Brigade Trail itself is typically hiked as an out-and-back section within the larger Patriots' Path network. However, due to its connections with other trails like the Grand Loop, Blue, and Red Trails, you can often create various loop configurations using a combination of these paths.