The River Loop Hiking Trail Guide
Scenic hikes, peaceful walks, and unforgettable views along The River Loop
There's no better way to experience The River Loop than on foot. From riverside towpaths and hidden waterfalls to scenic overlooks and quiet woodland trails, these are some of our favorite places to explore throughout Hunterdon County and Bucks County. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, consider this your guide to getting outside and discovering the natural beauty that makes this region so special.
Delaware River Towpath
Location: Hunterdon County, NJ
The Delaware River Towpaths are one of the signature experiences along The River Loop, offering miles of scenic walking and biking trails that follow both sides of the Delaware River. Whether you're exploring for an hour or spending the day, the towpaths connect some of the region's most charming river towns while showcasing beautiful scenery, historic landmarks, and peaceful stretches along the water.
The Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath follows the river from Milford through Frenchtown, Bulls Island, Stockton, and Lambertville. Along the way, you'll enjoy shaded trails, peaceful canal and river views, and easy access to cafés, shops, parks, and historic downtowns that make each stop worth exploring.
Ken Lockwood Gorge Trail
Location: Califon & High Bridge, NJ
Often considered one of New Jersey's most scenic natural areas, Ken Lockwood Gorge is a peaceful retreat where the South Branch of the Raritan River winds through towering rock walls, crystal-clear water, and dense forests. The easy riverside trail offers beautiful views, abundant wildlife, and one of the state's premier fly-fishing destinations, making it a favorite for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers in every season.
Round Valley Recreation Area
Location: Lebanon, NJ
Home to New Jersey's deepest lake, Round Valley combines scenic shoreline trails with more challenging wooded hikes. Stay after your walk to enjoy the beach, picnic areas, or simply take in the incredible reservoir views.
Voorhees State Park
Location: Glen Gardner, NJ
With wooded trails, scenic overlooks, and rolling hills, Voorhees State Park is perfect for hikers of every level. Don't miss the Vista Trail for beautiful views across Hunterdon County.
Columbia Trail
Location: High Bridge to Long Valley, NJ
Following a former railroad line, the Columbia Trail meanders alongside the South Branch of the Raritan River through forests, wetlands, and historic bridges. Its flat crushed-stone surface makes it perfect for walking, running, biking, and leisurely afternoons outdoors.
Landsdown Trail
Location: Clinton Township, NJ
Just minutes from downtown Clinton, the Landsdown Trail offers peaceful meadows, wooded paths, and gentle terrain perfect for an easy walk or bike ride. It's a beautiful escape that's close to town yet feels miles away.
Point Mountain Nature Preserve
Location: Washington, NJ
One of Hunterdon County's most rewarding hikes, Point Mountain features a steady climb through wooded trails before opening to one of the area's most spectacular panoramic overlooks. The sweeping views are well worth the effort—especially during peak fall foliage.
Goat Hill Overlook
Location: Lambertville, NJ
A relatively short hike leads to one of the most breathtaking views along the Delaware River. Perched high above Lambertville and New Hope, Goat Hill offers sweeping vistas that are especially beautiful at sunrise, sunset, and throughout the fall.
Milford Bluffs
Location: Milford, NJ
Tucked just outside downtown Milford, this peaceful trail winds through mature forest before reaching dramatic rock ledges overlooking the Delaware River. It's a quieter hike with beautiful scenery and one of Hunterdon County's hidden gems.
Sourland Mountain Preserve
Location: East Amwell Township, NJ
Known for its rugged trails, massive boulder fields, and dense forests, Sourland Mountain offers miles of hiking for every ability. Wildlife is abundant, and every season brings something new to discover.
Delaware River Towpaths
Location: Bucks County, PA
The Delaware River Towpaths are one of the signature experiences along The River Loop, offering miles of scenic walking and biking trails that follow both sides of the Delaware River. Whether you're exploring for an hour or spending the day, the towpaths connect some of the region's most charming river towns while showcasing beautiful scenery, historic landmarks, and peaceful stretches along the water.
The Delaware Canal Towpath follows the Pennsylvania side of the river from Upper Black Eddy through Point Pleasant, Lumberville, and New Hope, with additional scenic stretches continuing south to Washington Crossing, Yardley, Morrisville, and Bristol. Along the way, you'll discover charming river towns, historic inns, river overlooks, cafés, restaurants, local shops, and some of the most picturesque views along the Delaware.
Peace Valley Park
Location: Doylestown, PA
Centered around beautiful Lake Galena, Peace Valley Park is one of our favorite places for a scenic walk. Wide lakeside paths, wooded trails, and open water views make it an easy escape in every season.
Tyler State Park
Location: Newtown, PA
With covered bridges, rolling hills, wooded trails, and Neshaminy Creek winding through the park, Tyler is one of Bucks County's most picturesque places to hike. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll or a longer adventure, there's a trail for every pace.
Neshaminy State Park
Location: Bensalem, PA
Where Neshaminy Creek meets the Delaware River, this waterfront park offers easy walking trails and beautiful river views. It's a peaceful spot for an afternoon walk, birdwatching, or simply enjoying time by the water.
Falls Township Community Park
Location: Fairless Hills, PA
More of a scenic walk than a traditional hike, this spacious park features a large lake, paved walking paths, and plenty of open green space. It's perfect for families, casual walkers, or anyone looking to spend time outdoors.
Nockamixon State Park
Location: Quakertown, PA
Surrounding one of Pennsylvania's largest lakes, Nockamixon offers miles of scenic trails ranging from peaceful shoreline walks to wooded forest hikes. Stay after your hike to kayak, picnic, or simply enjoy the views across the water.
Sellersville–Perkasie–East Rockhill Trail
Location: Sellersville & Perkasie, PA
This paved multi-use trail connects several charming Bucks County communities through parks, woodlands, and creekside scenery. It's perfect for walking, biking, or a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
Idlewood Trail
Location: Langhorne, PA
If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, Idlewood's wooded trails weave through rolling forest and rocky terrain. It's one of Bucks County's hidden gems that feels much farther from town than it actually is.
Playwicki Farm
Location: Langhorne, PA
Playwicki Farm offers a peaceful mix of open fields, wooded trails, and quiet walking paths that are perfect for a slower afternoon outdoors. It's an easy escape with plenty of room to unwind and enjoy nature.
Ringing Rocks Park
Location: Upper Black Eddy, PA
One of the most unique parks in Pennsylvania, Ringing Rocks is home to a massive boulder field where the stones actually ring when struck. Continue beyond the rocks to discover a beautiful seasonal waterfall tucked into the woods.
High Rocks & Tohickon Valley Park
Location: Pipersville, PA
If you're chasing one of the best overlooks in Bucks County, this is the hike. The rocky climb rewards you with dramatic cliffside views over Tohickon Creek and a landscape that's especially breathtaking in the fall.
Washington Crossing Historic Park
Location: Washington Crossing, PA
History and nature come together at this beautiful riverside park, where scenic walking paths wind past historic buildings and along the Delaware River. Connect to the Delaware River Towpaths to extend your adventure and explore even more of the river corridor.
Hacklebarney State Park
Location: Long Valley, NJ
One of our favorite destinations just beyond The River Loop, Hacklebarney State Park feels like stepping into another world. Wander alongside the rushing Black River, cross historic stone bridges, and discover mossy boulders, gentle cascades, and miles of shaded forest trails. It's the perfect day trip when you're craving a little extra adventure.
Duke Farms
Location: Hillsborough, NJ
Just under an hour from the heart of The River Loop, Duke Farms is one of New Jersey's most remarkable outdoor destinations. Explore miles of scenic walking and biking trails, stroll through beautifully restored gardens, discover wetlands teeming with wildlife, and visit the iconic Orchid Range. It's the perfect place to spend a peaceful morning or afternoon immersed in nature.
Grounds For Sculpture
Location: Hamilton, NJ
A destination unlike any other, Grounds For Sculpture blends art, nature, and beautifully landscaped gardens across 42 acres. Wander tree-lined paths, discover more than 300 contemporary sculptures, and enjoy ever-changing seasonal blooms around every corner. Complete your visit with lunch or dinner at Rat's Restaurant, making it an unforgettable day trip just beyond The River Loop.