Delaware Water Gap in Warren County NJ: Hikes and Views

The New Jersey side of the Delaware Water Gap sits entirely in Warren County, NJ, and it holds some of the best views and trails in the state. This guide covers the big hikes, the quiet historic corners and how to make a day of it.

The Gap itself is a notch the Delaware River cut through the Kittatinny Ridge, about a quarter mile wide at river level and nearly a mile wide from mountaintop to mountaintop, according to the National Park Service. In the 1800s and early 1900s it was one of the most popular summer resort areas in the eastern United States.

Mount Tammany via the Red Dot Trail

• Where: Dunnfield Creek Natural Area trailhead, off I-80, Worthington State Forest, Hardwick Township

The Red Dot Trail climbs 1,201 feet in 1.2 miles to the classic view straight into the Gap, and the Park Service rates it one of the most challenging hikes in the park. Pair it with the Pahaquarry Trail (Blue Blaze) for a three mile loop, going up Red Dot and down Blue Blaze, which most hikers find easier. The lot fills fast on nice weekends, and there is a restroom at the trailhead.

NPS: Mt. Tammany Trail (Red Dot)

Dunnfield Creek Trail

• Where: Dunnfield Creek Natural Area, Worthington State Forest, Hardwick Township

This 3.4 mile trail follows Dunnfield Creek upstream from the Delaware River through a ravine lined with rhododendron, mature hemlock and mixed hardwoods. It is rocky and sometimes steep, but it is shaded and peaceful, with small waterfalls along the way. It also connects to the Appalachian Trail for longer days.

NJ State Parks: Trails of Worthington State Forest

Sunfish Pond and the Appalachian Trail

• Where: Worthington State Forest, Hardwick Township

Worthington State Forest holds 6.6 miles of the Appalachian Trail along the Kittatinny Ridge, with excellent views. Sunfish Pond sits on the ridge, and a small trail leads around it for scenic views. From Old Mine Road, the Garvey Springs Trail climbs about 1,100 feet to meet the AT east of the pond, and the Douglas Trail climbs about 1,200 feet past a view of Laurel Falls, so a loop between the two makes a strong half day hike.

NJ State Parks: Worthington trail guide

Worthington State Forest

• Where: Old Mine Road, Hardwick Township

The state forest covers 6,660 acres and stretches more than seven miles along the Kittatinny Ridge at the southern end of the national recreation area. Ten trails add up to more than 22 miles of hiking. It is the home base for most of the Gap’s best known hikes on the New Jersey side.

NJ State Forests

Kittatinny Point

• Where: Off I-80 near the Delaware River, Hardwick Township

Kittatinny Point offers an upstream view of the Gap from the New Jersey side along I-80. It is a good stop for anyone who wants the scenery without the climb. Check current park conditions before you go.

NPS: The Water Gap

Old Mine Road and Millbrook Village

• Where: Old Mine Road, about 12 miles north of I-80 Exit 1, Hardwick Township
• When: The village grounds are open dawn to dusk

Millbrook started with an 1832 grist mill and grew to about 75 people and 19 major buildings by 1875. Today the village evokes a mid 1800s farm hamlet, and on select weekends volunteers demonstrate woodworking, weaving, blacksmithing and more. It is also the trailhead for the Orchard, Coventry Pond and Donkey’s Corner trails, with picnic tables nearby. From Blairstown, follow Route 602 west about seven miles from Route 94.

NPS: Historic Places

Know Before You Go

• Parking at Dunnfield Creek fills early on weekends, so arrive early or try a weekday.
• Carry water and treat any water from streams; the Park Service advises it may not be safe to drink.
• Pets must be on a six foot leash on the Appalachian Trail in the park.
• Winter brings icy rock on Mount Tammany, so traction devices help.

More in Warren County: warm up afterward in Blairstown or Columbia, or see our guide to more hikes and parks across the county.