December hike on the Black River loop, Chester, NJ
Details
10:30 a.m. start.
This is a seven-mile route, about half of which is along the Black River. One of my favorite NJ hikes. Lots of north Jersey rocks and roots but it's not a difficult hike. The second half of the route is easier. Moderate+ pace, easy to moderate difficulty. We'll take one extended break for lunch or a good snack.
Overall, the trail has a nice variety of scenery and terrain with a short stretch of road walking near the Kay Environmental Center. The river is very nice and as we move away from it we'll see some massive tulip trees and towering spruce. One of NJ's better hikes.
Park by the Old Grist Mill across from the Mill Tavern. See map. Get there a few minutes early to sign in, etc. There's a port-a-john in the parking lot.
In case you need it, my cell phone number is (609) 577-9365.