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Monument Loop, High Point SP, NJ


Highlights:

Best views, Natural Area, Northern Bog, Highest Point in NJ, Ridge Walking
Near:Sussex, NJ
Scenery:
Distance:4.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:382 ft
Hike Time:2.5 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Loop


Summary: This is another great hike to do after work or when you dont have all day to hike but need to get out. The trail takes you to the Highest point in NJ, 1803Ft. The views from the top are the best around. You get a 360 degree view of the Poconos, Catskills, Shawangunks, Walkill Valley, NY/NJ Highlands, Delaware River Valley and the Delaware Water Gap. The trail traverses two ridges and two valleys with constant views and all within the Kusar natural Area. Between the two main ridges you traverse the Cedar Swamp. The highest elevation swamp of its kind, It is actually a northern bog with Atlantic White Cedars usually found along the coast. Mixed in are Hemlocks, Black Spruce, Rhododendrons, Mt laurel, Yellow Birch, Pitcher plants and Sundews, (insect eating plants). This area is also great for snowshoeing due to the abundance of snow that the area receives. There are also great opportunities to explore the many side trail and bushwhacks.
Trailhead: From town of Sussex, take rt. 23 North about 8 miles. Park entrance is on right across rd from park office. Follow main Rd toward monument. Park at north end of lake Marcia. (Lat:41.3201 Lon:-74.66654)
Trail Guides for Monument Loop, High Point SP, NJ:
Kittatinny trails map
by Ny-NJ trail conference  ()

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: High Point State Park: 973-875-4800
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Shawn Viggiano, who has posted  44 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Woody on 9/25/2007
One of my favorite hikes that I must do every year! I like to start it at the Steeny Kill Lake where the boat launch area is and head to the Monument Trail up a long staircase made by the CCC in the 1930's. Make a left and that joins the Monument Trail. Excellent views of Port Jervis on left side of mountain and Jersey farm land on the other. Follow map submitted where parking area is and that will join you back to Steeny Kill for a nice loop! Great hike!!

Reviewed by Stephanie on 7/18/2005
Best on a clear day. Moderate difficulty, some stretches strenuous. Lake Marcia is beautifully peaceful. The path is very narrow and lots of bush overgrowth, nothing prickly. At the point where the red/green trail hits the appalachian trail go left to continue, this is not immdiately obvious. It is fun to walk around the monument and see the views. On the way lots of farmers markets!


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: New Jersey Hiking, New Jersey Trails, New Jersey Hikes, Sussex County Hiking, Sussex County Trails, Sussex County Hikes

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