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Morris County

Morris Plains

The best MTB trails around Morris Plains

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated June 1, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking around Morris Plains, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and parks, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed countless miles here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best mountain biking routes Morris Plains NJ has to offer.

Mountain biking around Morris Plains is all about diverse terrain. You'll find a mix of hilly sections, mixed hardwood forests, and varied trail systems, from singletrack to wider paths. The landscape here is characterized by lush greenery, wetlands, and ponds, offering a scenic backdrop for your ride. While there are great local trails, the real draw is the seamless connection to larger natural preserves like Lewis Morris County Park, which significantly expands your riding options from easy to moderate.

If you only do one ride, make it the Red Trail Loop. At 4.4 miles (7.2 km), it's an easy route that packs in dynamic riding with hilly sections and loose gravel – perfect for getting a feel for the area. For something a bit longer that explores more of the region's character, the Lewis Morris County Park – Sunrise Lake loop from Morris Plains is a fantastic choice. This 10.5 miles (16.9 km) easy route takes you through forested areas and past the beautiful Sunrise Lake. Over 200 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore these trails, so you know you're in good company.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Red Trail Loop
  2. 2

    Lewis Morris County Park – Sunrise Lake loop from Morris Township
  3. 3

    Lake Pocahontas – Lewis Morris County Park loop from Morristown

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Red Trail Loop

7.15 km

120 m

Easy

Lewis Morris County Park – Sunrise Lake loop from Morris Township

20.0 km

290 m

Easy

Lake Pocahontas – Lewis Morris County Park loop from Morristown

41.8 km

420 m

Moderate

Beach Glen Mine – Jonathan's Woods loop from Rockaway Township

12.8 km

160 m

Easy

1.

Red Trail Loop

7.15km

00:44

120m

120m

The Red Trail Loop in Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, offers a delightful mountain biking experience, primarily on singletrack. You'll find yourself navigating through wooded areas with very few technical features, making it a smooth and enjoyable ride. The trail connects the Boon and Mountain Lakes sections of the park, providing a consistent flow with occasional small rocky sections and a notable switchback in the northwest. It's a great option for a relaxed outing, allowing you to soak in the local scenery without intense physical demands.

Planning your ride on this easy 4.4-mile (7.2 km) route, which includes 393 feet (120 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 43 minutes, is straightforward. Be mindful that a section of the Red Trail to the southeast is closed to bikes; you'll need to use the Ogden Trail to complete your loop. Parking is typically available at the park entrances, and arriving earlier in the day is advisable, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. This trail is accessible year-round, offering a quick escape into nature.

This particular Red Trail Loop stands out as a local gem for its accessibility and non-technical nature, making it a popular choice for those new to mountain biking or looking for a less strenuous ride. While it doesn't feature extreme challenges, its well-maintained singletrack and connection between two park sections provide a satisfying circular mountain biking route. It's an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of Morris County without venturing too far from urban conveniences.

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2.

Lewis Morris County Park – Sunrise Lake loop from Morris Township

20.0km

01:50

290m

290m

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.

Beach Glen Mine – Jonathan's Woods loop from Rockaway Township

12.8km

01:09

160m

160m

Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Tips from the Community

Brian
February 9, 2025, Washington Valley station

Only a few parking spots, but a beautiful area in all directions.

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Brian
February 9, 2025, Lake Pocahontas

Often times there are seemingly homeless people camping in the woods. Just keep rolling past and they won't bother you.

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Brian
August 25, 2024, Speedwell Lake

Lots of pedestrians, often with dogs. A gentle bell ding will move them over.

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Brian
August 13, 2024, Patriots' Path

Lots of fellow pedestrians. Use a bell when on your bike.

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Lewis Morris County Park is a popular spot for outdoor activity. It is popular with walkers, trail runners and mountain bikers. There are several trails for you to choose from throughout the park.

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mtm05005
July 26, 2024, Patriots' Path

The Patriots' Path is a 35-mile trail that runs through Morris County. It is a mix of pavement, gravel and crushed stone. This section is mostly paved and runs through beautiful forest.

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Despite the physical absence of the Rockaway Valley Railroad, its legacy lives on in the Washington Valley Trail and the memories it evokes. While the railroad ties and structures may have vanished, the spirit of the journey remains. The quiet beauty of the trail, reclaimed by nature, offers a unique opportunity for reflection and appreciation.

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Alex
January 3, 2024, Jonathan's Woods

Jonathan's Woods is a wooded area 555 acres in size with trails running through it. This public green space is open every day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Ford Road, or White Road, is a gravel road that goes from one parking area to another and is a nice way to see the woods via bike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available around Morris Plains?

There are 13 mountain bike trails around Morris Plains, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these, 10 to be exact, are rated as easy, with 3 moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge.

What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Morris Plains?

The terrain around Morris Plains is quite varied, featuring hilly sections and a mix of paved, dirt, and mulched paths. You'll ride through mixed hardwood forests, past wetlands, and alongside ponds, offering diverse scenery. The region, including areas like Lewis Morris County Park, is known for its dynamic riding conditions, including loose gravel in some spots.

Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Morris Plains?

Yes, Morris Plains offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners. For example, the Red Trail Loop is an easy 4.4-mile route with hilly sections, providing a good introduction to mountain biking in the area. Another easy option is the Lewis Morris County Park – Sunrise Lake loop from Morris Plains, which is 11.7 miles and leads through forested areas.

Are there challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?

While most trails are easy, there are moderate options for more experienced riders. The Lewis Morris County Park – Lewis Morris County Park loop from Morristown is a moderate 19.8-mile path that explores the extensive park, known for its varied terrain and shared-use trails, offering a longer and more demanding ride.

Are the mountain bike trails in Morris Plains dog-friendly?

Many trails in Morris County parks, including those accessible from Morris Plains, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific park regulations before heading out, but you'll often find fellow riders with their canine companions enjoying the natural surroundings.

Are there family-friendly mountain bike trails in Morris Plains?

Yes, with 10 easy trails available, Morris Plains is well-suited for family-friendly mountain biking. Trails like the Red Trail Loop offer manageable distances and varied terrain that can be enjoyed by families. The local Morris Plains Community Park also features trails that are suitable for a relaxed family outing.

What natural features or attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails?

As you ride, you'll encounter diverse natural features and attractions. Many routes pass by beautiful lakes such as Speedwell Lake and Sunrise Lake. You might also explore parts of Tourne County Park or ride along sections of the Loantaka Brook Reservation Trails, offering scenic views of forests and wetlands.

Are there any scenic mountain bike routes in Morris Plains?

Absolutely. The region's mixed hardwood forests, wetlands, and ponds create many scenic opportunities. Trails like the Lewis Morris County Park – Sunrise Lake loop from Morris Plains are particularly scenic, leading through forested areas and past the picturesque Sunrise Lake. The diverse ecosystems also support a wide array of wildlife, enhancing the natural beauty of your ride.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy about mountain biking in Morris Plains?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the diverse trail system, which includes both singletrack and wider paths, and the varied terrain from hilly sections to peaceful forested routes. The accessibility to larger natural preserves like Lewis Morris County Park is also a significant draw.

Are there loop mountain bike trails available?

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Morris Plains are designed as loops, making for convenient rides. Examples include the Red Trail Loop and the Lewis Morris County Park – Sunrise Lake loop from Morris Plains, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

What is the best time of year to mountain bike in Morris Plains?

Morris Plains offers enjoyable mountain biking throughout the seasons, thanks to its diverse landscapes. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer can be great for shaded routes. Winter riding is also possible, though conditions may vary with snow or ice, so checking local trail conditions is always recommended.

Are there options for longer distance mountain bike rides?

Yes, for those looking for longer rides, routes like the Lewis Morris County Park – Lewis Morris County Park loop from Morristown offer a substantial 19.8-mile journey. This moderate trail allows you to explore a significant portion of the extensive park, providing a good challenge for endurance.

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