The best gravel rides in Voorhees State Park
83
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking in Voorhees State Park features wooded hills and varied terrain in northern Hunterdon County, New Jersey. The park offers an extensive network of multi-use trails that traverse diverse surfaces, including single-track rocky paths and wide gravel roads. Riders can explore deciduous forests, pine plantations, and enjoy scenic vistas of the Round Valley Reservoir and Spruce Run Reservoir. Willoughby Brook, a designated "Wild Trout Stream," also flows through the park, adding to its natural features.
Best gravel bike trails…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
17
riders
76.3km
04:31
790m
790m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
91.0km
05:58
1,220m
1,220m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
13
riders
24.5km
01:14
70m
70m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
39.7km
02:27
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
28
riders
38.9km
02:22
390m
390m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The old train station was built in the late 1800s for the Central Railroad of New Jersey. Today, it serves as a hub for the Califon Historical Society and access point for the Columbia Rail Trail. Supposedly, the name Califon comes from a shortening of "California", since the painter creating the station map didn't leave enough room for the original title.
0
0
A packed dirt road takes you along the Raritan River at the sheltered base of the gorge. There are plenty of spots to park as you head in from Readingsburg, but most of the road is closed to vehicle traffic and makes for the perfect bike route. You are right next to the water and can bike along both sides of the gorge.
0
0
There are abandoned railroad ruins along the sides of the road. There are even still rails on the ground in spots overgrown with grasses and weeds.
0
0
The Columbia Trail is a 16.5-mile paved path consisting of dirt and packed gravel. Pretty much any tires can handle the smooth surface, and it's easy to cover a lot of miles with how flat the entire trail is.
0
0
The Columbia Trail is a gorgeous Greenway along the South Branch Raritan River from this trail head to High Bridge, almost 15.5 miles to the south. Absolutely incredible views all the way through, autumn could be the best time to enjoy the trail. This parking at the northern trailhead isn't very big, but a couple of cars can fit in it.
0
0
Explore the captivating Ken Lockwood Gorge within the 500-acre Ken Lockwood Wildlife Management Area. This picturesque landscape, adorned with towering hemlocks along steep walls, creates an isolated and serene atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the 2.5-mile stretch of the South Branch of the Raritan River, featuring cascading waters, small waterfalls, and tranquil pools—an enchanting experience, especially in the vibrant spring season.
0
0
The Columbia Trail is a 16.5-mile paved multi-use trail that travels through Morris and Hunterdon counties along the South Branch Raritan River.
0
0
This stunning lake features a unique rock wall waterfall and is surrounded by lush trees. The sights are even more amazing in springtime when the leaves start to change colors.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Voorhees State Park?
Voorhees State Park offers a network of 11 multi-use trails, with komoot featuring 6 distinct gravel biking routes. These routes vary in difficulty, catering to different skill levels.
What types of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Voorhees State Park?
The trails in Voorhees State Park feature a diverse range of surfaces, from single-track rocky paths to wide gravel roads. You'll encounter wooded hills, deciduous forests, and pine plantations, with some sections offering moderate climbs.
Are there any easy gravel biking routes suitable for beginners or families in Voorhees State Park?
Yes, there are options for easier rides. The Califon Train Station – Columbia Trail loop from Crestmoore is an easy 14.3-mile (23.0 km) route that leads through wooded areas, often completed in about 1 hour 33 minutes. While some trails can be rocky, there are beginner-friendly sections available.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions along the gravel bike trails?
You can enjoy picturesque views of the Round Valley Reservoir and Spruce Run Reservoir from various vantage points within the park. The Solar System Trail, for instance, concludes at an overlook for Round Valley Reservoir. Willoughby Brook, a designated "Wild Trout Stream," also adds to the park's natural charm.
Are there any unique landmarks or points of interest to explore in Voorhees State Park?
A unique attraction is the Paul Robinson Observatory, which houses the largest working public telescope in New Jersey. The Solar System Trail starts at the observatory and features interpretive signs about the planets, scaled to represent their distance from the Sun.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Voorhees State Park?
The park's diverse forests offer beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring and fall typically provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. While trails are generally accessible, winter conditions might introduce snow or ice, so checking local conditions is advisable.
Are there any longer or more challenging gravel biking routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Columbia Trail – Califon Train Station loop from High Bridge is a difficult 56.6-mile (91.0 km) trail that takes approximately 5 hours 58 minutes to complete, offering varied and demanding terrain.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Voorhees State Park?
The routes in Voorhees State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic wooded hills, and the diverse forest landscapes that make each ride unique.
Are there any circular gravel biking routes available?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Columbia Trail – Ken Lockwood Gorge loop from Califon is a moderate 20.4-mile (32.9 km) path that takes you through scenic areas, including the Ken Lockwood Gorge, and returns to your starting point.
Can I find routes that pass through specific areas like 'horse country'?
Yes, for a different experience, consider the Horse country loop from Tewksbury Township. This moderate 38.9-mile (38.9 km) route offers a unique perspective of the local landscape.
What is the history behind the forests and trails in Voorhees State Park?
Many of the park's pine plantations and some trails are a legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which planted trees and constructed infrastructure between 1933 and 1941. You might even spot remnants of old stone walls, reminders of the park's agricultural past.
Are there facilities like picnic areas or restrooms available in the park?
Voorhees State Park provides numerous picnic areas equipped with tables and grills. While specific restroom locations on trails vary, facilities are generally available near main park areas and campgrounds.
Most popular routes in Voorhees State Park
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
