4.6
(5393)
5,569
hikers
Rancocas Creek Trail loop
00:47
3.08km
10m
Hiking
Explore the Rancocas Creek Trail loop, an easy hiking route that guides you through diverse landscapes within Historic Smithville Park. You will walk through woodlands, open meadows, and along the banks of Rancocas Creek and Smithville Lake. This pleasant 1.9-mile (3.1 km) journey involves a gentle 30 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 47 minutes to complete, and features a unique pontoon bridge crossing Smithville Lake.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park offers readily available parking at Smithville Park. The trails are generally accessible, making them suitable for strollers and leashed dogs. If you are looking for a longer outing, you can easily combine this loop with other color-coded trails within the park.
As you hike, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls these varied habitats home, including white-tailed deer, beaver, and over 150 bird species. The route also passes by historic elements of a Victorian industrial-era village, adding a unique cultural layer to your outdoor adventure.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.27 km
Smithville Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
2.14 km
Smithville Park
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
3.08 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.84 km
158 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.98 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 27 May
27°C
18°C
65 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Rancocas Creek Trail loop?
Parking is available at Historic Smithville Park in Eastampton, New Jersey. The park offers ample parking facilities for visitors accessing the trails.
Is the Rancocas Creek Trail loop dog-friendly?
Yes, the trails at Historic Smithville Park are dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for Historic Smithville Park?
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Historic Smithville Park or hike the Rancocas Creek Trail loop.
What is the best time of year to hike this route?
The Rancocas Creek Trail loop can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides lush greenery. Winter hiking is also possible, but be mindful of potential icy conditions.
What is the terrain like on this trail?
The trail features diverse terrain including woodlands, open meadows, and riverside paths along Rancocas Creek and Smithville Lake. You'll mostly encounter dirt surfaces, with some concrete sections. While generally flat, some parts, particularly the Green and Blue (Ravine) trails, include slight elevation changes and steps.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the way?
You'll enjoy lovely views of Rancocas Creek and Smithville Lake. The route also passes through Smithville Park, a historic district with a preserved Victorian industrial-era village and a Greek Revival Mansion. A notable feature is the pontoon bridge on the Green Trail that crosses Smithville Lake.
What kind of wildlife might I see on the trail?
The park's diverse habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands, make it excellent for wildlife observation. You might spot white-tailed deer, beaver, red-tailed hawks, and great blue herons, among over 150 bird species.
Is the Rancocas Creek Trail loop suitable for families with children?
Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and many sections are stroller-friendly, making it suitable for families. The varied scenery and historical elements of Smithville Park offer engaging points of interest for all ages.
Does this route connect with other trails?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Burlington County Bikeways, covering about 42% of the loop. Historic Smithville Park also features multiple color-coded trails (Red, Green, Blue, Yellow) that can be combined for various loop options.
Is this a loop trail?
Yes, the Rancocas Creek Trail loop is designed as a loop, bringing you back to your starting point without retracing your steps.
Are there any specific trail sections to look out for?
Keep an eye out for the pontoon bridge on the Green Trail, which offers a unique crossing over Smithville Lake. If you're looking for slight elevation changes and views down to the creek, the Blue (Ravine) Trail includes steps and offers a different perspective.