Allamuchy Mountain State Park Has Miles Of Trails And More

New Jersey has no shortage of beautiful state parks to visit, but some of them can fly under the radar a little bit. Allamuchy Mountain State Park, located in Allamuchy and Byram Townships, is one such example. The park has over 14 miles of marked trails and over 20 miles of unmarked trails in a tranquil wooded setting, but that’s not all it offers. Right within the park’s borders, you’ll also find Waterloo Village, a historic 19th-century canal town you can stroll through and imagine you’re stepping back into the past.

Allamuchy Mountain State Park encompasses over 2,000 acres, with trails that travel through forests and marshlands. The Musconetcong River, a major tributary to the Delaware River and a popular spot for trout fishing winds its way through the park. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even cross-country skiing and rock climbing are all permitted here.

Matt Romaine/AllTrails

Within the park, accessible from Waterloo Road in Stanhope, you’ll find the Waterloo Village Historic Site. This restored 19th-century canal town represents life as it was in the 1800s.

Waterloo Village Historic Site/Facebook

It’s easy to imagine that you’re stepping back through time as you wander among the authentically restored buildings. Educational tours are also offered here for schools and groups, and trails can be accessed from the village grounds.

Jim Lukach/Flickr

Popular trails include the Jefferson Lake and Sunset Branch Loop, the Highlands Trail – and a 3-mile section of the 20-mile-long Sussex Branch Trail, a rail trail which also travels through Kittatinny Valley State Park.

Sharalynn Hopkins/AllTrails

The view from the overlook at the top of the Highlands Trail is breathtaking, especially in the fall when the foliage is at its peak. However, this park is worth a visit in all seasons.

Fan Luo/AllTrails

Dogs are also welcome in Allamuchy Mountain State Park, so your buddy can hit the trails along with you. There’s nothing like taking in the view alongside your best friend.

Alyssa Byrnes/AllTrails

Although there are plenty of less frequented trails where you can enjoy the serenity of nature, you may still encounter some friendly faces along the way.

Amber Probasco/AllTrails

Miles of trails are waiting to be explored in this beautiful and sometimes overlooked gem of a park.

Renee Anthony/AllTrails

Are you ready to go explore Allamuchy Mountain State Park? Check out our guide to the Highlands Trail and its gorgeous overlook to get you started.