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United States

New Jersey

Mercer County

Lawrence Hopewell Trail: Pole Farm Loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

New Jersey

Mercer County

Lawrence Hopewell Trail: Pole Farm Loop

Easy

3.4

(26)

hikers

Lawrence Hopewell Trail: Pole Farm Loop

Q: Where can I park to access the Pole Farm Loop?

The Pole Farm Loop is located within Mercer Meadows County Park. You can find parking areas conveniently located near trailheads within the park. Specific parking details are usually available on the Mercer County Parks website.

Q: How long does it typically take to hike the Pole Farm Loop?

This hike is approximately 7.4 kilometers (4.6 miles) long. Based on an average hiking pace, it typically takes about 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete.

Q: Is the Pole Farm Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the Pole Farm Loop is considered an easy hike and is very family-friendly. While it has more gentle inclines than typical flat rail trails, it's generally not strenuous and is accessible to most hikers.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Pole Farm Loop?

The terrain is diverse, primarily featuring gravel paths and stone dust surfaces. You might also encounter some boardwalks within Mercer Meadows. While the broader Lawrence Hopewell Trail includes porous pavement and dirt sections, this specific loop is mostly gravel and stone dust.

Q: What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?

You'll experience a picturesque blend of open meadows with native grasses and wildflowers, lush woodlands, and views of two lakes within the 1,600-acre Mercer Meadows. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and rabbits.

Q: What are the main points of interest along the Pole Farm Loop?

The loop offers several interesting features. You can visit the Lookout tower for views, and explore The "Pole Farm" itself, which has historical interpretive signs detailing its past as an AT&T shortwave radio station.

Q: Does the Pole Farm Loop connect with other trails?

Yes, the route is part of the larger Lawrence Hopewell Trail system and also passes through sections of the Lawrence Hopewell Trail, Maidenhead Trail, and Reed / Bryan Farm Trail. It also offers linkages to other major trail systems like the Delaware and Raritan Canal Trail.

Q: Is the Pole Farm Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Pole Farm Loop is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Pole Farm Loop?

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and fall provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the gravel paths are often manageable, but always check local conditions for ice or heavy snow.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required for the Pole Farm Loop or Mercer Meadows County Park?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the Pole Farm Loop or Mercer Meadows County Park. It's free for public use.

01:54

7.36km

40m

Hiking

The Lawrence Hopewell Trail: Pole Farm Loop offers a delightful and varied hiking experience through Mercer Meadows. You'll wander through open fields dotted with wildflowers, transition into shaded woodlands, and pass by the intriguing historical "Pole Farm" landmark. The trail's generally flat terrain, a mix of paved and natural surfaces,…

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

3.17 km

Lookout tower

Highlight • Viewpoint

This observation tower overlooks the park and is also utilized as a stargazing platform. The tower is safe and well maintained, and access to it is open to the public for free.

Tip by

5.03 km

The "Pole Farm"

Highlight • Historical Site

The "Pole Farm" is the name given to this particular area in Mercer Meadows. This plot of land used to be filled with hundreds of tall, timber poles that played a crucial role in the telecommunications era of the 1950s.

Tip by

7.36 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.77 km

1.92 km

657 m

Surfaces

4.58 km

1.97 km

769 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Thursday 9 July

27°C

20°C

91 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Pole Farm Loop?

The Pole Farm Loop is located within Mercer Meadows County Park. You can find parking areas conveniently located near trailheads within the park. Specific parking details are usually available on the Mercer County Parks website.

How long does it typically take to hike the Pole Farm Loop?

This hike is approximately 7.4 kilometers (4.6 miles) long. Based on an average hiking pace, it typically takes about 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete.

Is the Pole Farm Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the Pole Farm Loop is considered an easy hike and is very family-friendly. While it has more gentle inclines than typical flat rail trails, it's generally not strenuous and is accessible to most hikers.

What is the terrain like on the Pole Farm Loop?

The terrain is diverse, primarily featuring gravel paths and stone dust surfaces. You might also encounter some boardwalks within Mercer Meadows. While the broader Lawrence Hopewell Trail includes porous pavement and dirt sections, this specific loop is mostly gravel and stone dust.

What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?

You'll experience a picturesque blend of open meadows with native grasses and wildflowers, lush woodlands, and views of two lakes within the 1,600-acre Mercer Meadows. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and rabbits.

What are the main points of interest along the Pole Farm Loop?

The loop offers several interesting features. You can visit the Lookout tower for views, and explore The "Pole Farm" itself, which has historical interpretive signs detailing its past as an AT&T shortwave radio station.

Does the Pole Farm Loop connect with other trails?

Yes, the route is part of the larger Lawrence Hopewell Trail system and also passes through sections of the Lawrence Hopewell Trail, Maidenhead Trail, and Reed / Bryan Farm Trail. It also offers linkages to other major trail systems like the Delaware and Raritan Canal Trail.

Is the Pole Farm Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Pole Farm Loop is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

What is the best time of year to hike the Pole Farm Loop?

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, and fall provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the gravel paths are often manageable, but always check local conditions for ice or heavy snow.

Are there any fees or permits required for the Pole Farm Loop or Mercer Meadows County Park?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the Pole Farm Loop or Mercer Meadows County Park. It's free for public use.

What should I bring for a hike on this trail?

Given the diverse surfaces, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots are recommended. Bring water, especially on warmer days, and consider binoculars for wildlife viewing. Interpretive signs are along the route, but a map or GPS app can also be helpful.