How to Get to the Jersey Portion of the AT

[keidallmer]

So my friend Stinkoman and his older brother are planning to hike a portion of the AT in Jersey (since we live here n all), however we don't have maps at the moment -- what's the best way to get to the Jersey path coming from south Jersey? If anyone knows, that is. Thanks!

[jamarshall]

Pick it up at Delaware Water Gap and head north. I really liked the NJ section of the AT.

[STEVEM]

So my friend Stinkoman and his older brother are planning to hike a portion of the AT in Jersey (since we live here n all), however we don't have maps at the moment -- what's the best way to get to the Jersey path coming from south Jersey? If anyone knows, that is. Thanks!

You haven't been too specific about what part on the NJ AT you're looking for. There's 80+ miles in NJ.

The nearest part of the AT to you is probably at DWG. If you want to stay in NJ take the NJ turnpike North to Interstate 287. Take I287 north to I80 West. You'll see signs for the AT and DWG Visitor Center as you pass through the DWG. If you cross into PA you've gone too far.

You can also get to the same location using the PA Turnpike Northeast Extension, but someone else will have to provide those directions.

[Scrapes]

Lets start at the very basic, Tpk N, to exit 9, 18 (W) N, River Rd, to 287 N, 78 W, 31 N, 80 W, look for hiking signs, if you hit Exit 1, went to far, take it spin around under 80 to lot.

Is that what you want? or see above, DYOD, drive your own drive

[Bidwell]

Head towards the Delaware Water Gap or Highpoint... you'll find it :)

[Tanager13]

I don't know S. Jersey that well...but I can describe where you can "start" NJ's portion of the AT

You want Route 80 East. Look up Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area to get an idea where you're heading--but you'll be staying on the NJ side, not crossing into the PA part.

Regardless of where you get onto 80 (barring the absolute last entrance ramp in Jersey, of course) travel East toward PA. As you near the final NJ exit(s), look for a little brown and white Parking signs (for Dunnefield Creek Nature Area). The second parking lot puts you at an access for the AT.

Note, that this is actually Worthington State Forest property. Camping is only allowed at an designated area ("Backpacker Site #2), which is 3 miles up the trail. The site is maybe 1/2 mile from Sunfish Pond. If you hike through Worthington to adjacent land, the camping regulations change.

Another facility to check out would be the Mohican Outdoor Center, run by the AMC. The AT crosses at "Camp Road" just a few minutes from their conference/camping center.

If you plan to get into hiking in NE NJ, Kittatinny Trails is a good book by Robert Boysen with decent details (distance, elevation, trail features,etc)

Happy Hiking!

[sasquatch2014]

From the Hudson head west. If you hit the Delaware you have gone too far.

Couldn't help myself. Depending on where you want to go on the trail there are some transit options. You can catch a train out to Port Jarvis and then from there pick up the trail at High Point.

[Panzer1]

use WWW.MAPQUEST.COM (http://WWW.MAPQUEST.COM) to find directions to the town of "Delaware Water Gap" PA. print out directions and map.

also visit the Delaware Water Gap web site:
http://www.nps.gov/dewa/index.htm

Panzer

[keidallmer]

Thanks everyone! :D

[jersey joe]

You haven't been too specific about what part on the NJ AT you're looking for. There's 80+ miles in NJ.
There are actually 72 miles of AT in NJ.

[HugeHill]

There are a number of good bus lines that go to the Delaware Water Gap (station in East Stroudsberg). Metro North hits Tuxedo and Sloatsburg just inside New York.