Lured by an unexpected warm spell, we decided to conquer one of our long-awaited hikes: Sourland Mountain Preserve. Refreshed on reviews just that morning, the only warning was muddy trails. Undeterred by the prospect of a little muck, we set off for an adventure on the Devil’s Half-Acre, Ridge, and Tributary trail. Let’s dive in!
Sourland Mountain Location
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of western New Jersey, just 10 miles north of the charming town of Princeton, lies the Sourland Mountain Preserve. Encompassing a vast 6,300 acres within Hillsborough Township and Somerset County, this haven for outdoor enthusiasts boasts year-round accessibility and diverse landscapes waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking challenging trails or a casual runner looking for a scenic escape, Sourland Mountain Preserve has something for everyone. With its well-maintained paths winding through vibrant forests, past babbling brooks, and over rugged rock formations, the preserve offers a truly immersive experience. And for those furry friends tagging along, leashed dogs are always welcome to join the adventure!
Devil’s Half-Acre, Ridge, and Tributary trail
We arrived at Sourland Mountain Preserve at 11am, eager to tackle the Devil’s Half-Acre trail. Starting counter-clockwise, we were immediately greeted by a landscape of small boulders and a gradual climb – a wise choice to get the elevation gain out of the way early. This path led us up to 535ft, where the small boulders transformed into giants, some reaching 10ft tall! This dramatic rock formation became a popular resting spot for fellow hikers.
Continuing past the Half-Acre, the crowds thinned significantly. We figured many turned back here, but we pressed on, drawn by the allure of Roaring Brook Trail. However, the vast boulders on this path slowed our pace considerably. After 75ft of struggling, we confirmed with another hiker that the roughness persisted throughout. With our boys’ energy waning, we opted to return to the intersection and explore the Ridge Trail instead.
The Ridge Trail offered a welcome change. We followed it across multiple bridges, but unfortunately, not enough to avoid the mud mentioned in online reviews. Still, the rest of the trail was boulder-free and gently downhill, providing a perfect finale to our 5.43-mile adventure. And while the mud added an unexpected element, it also served as a reminder of the raw beauty and natural challenges found within this magnificent preserve.
Overall Impression
This park had been on my bucket list for a while, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint! While the mud was certainly present, it couldn’t dampen the stunning scenery – a unique gem in Central Jersey’s mostly flat landscape. Here are my takeaways for future adventurers:
- Early arrival is key: With limited parking, arriving by 11am meant snagging a spot just in time. Prepare for the popularity, especially by mid-afternoon.
- Embrace the boots: Mud and rocky terrain call for proper footwear. High-ankle hiking boots are your best bet to avoid slips, stumbles, and lost shoes (yes, I helped someone retrieve theirs!).
- Hydration is essential: There are no water stations at the trailhead, so pack plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Have you conquered Sourland Mountain? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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