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A tough elevation gain at the onset pays off with minor rock scrambles and fun along a relatively flat ridgeline.


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Map Key

5.8

Miles

9.3

KM

Loop

1,368' 417 m

High

768' 234 m

Low

879' 268 m

Up

890' 271 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

36%

Max Grade (20°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views

Description

The white-blazed Bearfort Ridge Trail begins just off of Warwick Turnpike. After a few minutes of hiking, it quickly turns uphill, with over 600 feet of elevation gain in about a mile. The first hill encountered is nominal, but the second you have to work for with an extended period of 15% grade or so. There is also a minor rock scramble at the top to add to the enjoyment.

The next two miles have minimal elevation gains and some obstructed views of the surrounding hillsides. Around the 2.6-mile mark, there is an interesting rock ledge/chasm to traverse. Soon after, there are good views of the distant rolling hills and eventually, just before the trail ends, you can see a portion of the NYC skyline on a clear day.

Note 1: The exposed bedrock is covered with lichen, and on a wet day, it's extremely slippery. Even the slightest decline that would otherwise be routine becomes a challenge in the rain.

Note 2: Parking off of Warwick Turnpike is very limited at the trailhead (41.155770, -74.362864). There are other turn-out parking spaces both east and west of the trailhead, but that means you'll have to hoof it a few minutes to get to the trail's start.

Flora & Fauna

Northern Jersey hardwood forest dominate this area, and scrub pines grow along the ridge itself.

Contacts

Shared By:

Lou Poulas

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 4 votes

#11122

Overall
  4.3 from 4 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
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3 Star
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Trail Rankings

#63

in New Jersey

#11,122

Overall
2 Views Last Month
523 Since Oct 14, 2017
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Photos

Surprise lake, beautiful in the winter
May 1, 2019 near West Mi…, NJ
Boulders along the path at Bearfort Ridge
Jul 8, 2018 near West Mi…, NJ
A picturesque rainy day along Bearfort Ridge Trail in Abram Hewitt State Park
Oct 16, 2017 near West Mi…, NJ
Mountain Laurel is EVERYWHERE on this trail. It's gorgeous!!
Jul 8, 2018 near West Mi…, NJ
Great hike, even in the snow!
May 1, 2019 near West Mi…, NJ
A season cascade just off the Quail Trail in Abram S Hewitt State Forest
Aug 20, 2018 near West Mi…, NJ

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Check-Ins

Feb 22, 2020
Deanna Wodek-Power
Mar 30, 2019
Michael Warren
Part of loop with Orange trail and Yellow trail. Beautiful hike on a gorgeous day
Mar 29, 2019
Bob Czechowicz
Tougher. Going up would be rough. Down a bit windy and a few spots you have to go slow. Great views though. Very rewarding even for kids.
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