Find a few of the best dog-friendly hikes in West Milford, New Jersey, that includes a range of easy-to-challenging trails.
Most dogs love spending time outside, especially in a natural setting with so much to explore. Hiking is a great way to spend time with your furry bestie while getting fresh air and exercise. Energetic dogs can tackle the harder, lengthier trails, while older or smaller dogs may need shorter trails for an outdoor adventure. Below are a few of the best dog-friendly hikes in West Milford, New Jersey, and I've included a range of easy to challenging trails.
1. Terrace Pond West Loop - Wawayanda State Park
Rated as moderately challenging, the 4.7-mile Terrace Pond West Loop at Wawayanda State Park is quite scenic, with forest and swamp views. The landscape here is diverse, and the trail will eventually lead you to Terrace Pond. The trail is rather rugged, with rock sections you may have to scramble over, so keep that in mind and prepare a pair of sturdy hiking boots and shoes for your hike. Also, make sure your dog can handle a trail like this before you go.
For another challenging trek in this state park, try the Stairway to Heaven Trail, which is also dog-friendly.
2. Animal Shute Trail - Long Pond Ironworks State Park
I just had to include the "Animal Shute Trail" on a list of dog-friendly trails! This trail at Long Pond Ironworks State Park has so much visual interest that it will keep you and your pup (on a leash, of course) occupied while you get some exercise. This 6.3-mile loop is moderate, and you'll pass through historic sites of a former ironworks that once provided iron for the Continental Army. In addition to the historic remnants, the park is gorgeous, with a pond, a reservoir, and woods. As portions of the trail are not as well-marked as others, I suggest you download the AllTrails app to your phone.
3. Bearfort Ridge and Surprise Lake Loop - Abram S. Hewitt State Forest
This stunning loop trail at Abram S. Hewitt State Forest is a challenging 8.2-mile trek with some steep sections. The elevation gain is 1,289 feet! However, the views you'll find are worth the difficult climb. Your fur baby can accompany you on this trek, but make sure both you and they are in good physical condition if you plan on tackling it in its entirety.
4. Green Turtle Pond - Long Pond Ironworks State Park
Are you ready for an easy trail now? I am! Another trail at Long Pond Ironworks State Park, the Green Turtle Pond Trail, is an easy 1.4 miles in length and follows part of the pond's shoreline. Because this is such a short and sweet trail, you may be able to bring older or smaller dogs who can't make a lengthy trek. Just make sure that they remain on a leash the entire time.
5. Lake Sonoma and Overlook Rock Trail - Norvin Green State Forest
How about another challenging trail? This one, located within Norvin Green State Forest, is 4.3 miles long and has an elevation gain of 869 feet. The trail has some rugged areas, but there are beautiful views, and depending on the time of year, you may be able to catch a seasonal waterfall. Perfect for a high-energy dog, they can be off-leash in some areas along the trail.
Which of the best dog-friendly hikes in West Milford, New Jersey, will you and your pup tackle first? Do you have any other dog-friendly trail suggestions in Milford and anywhere else in the state? Please share them with us through our nomination page!
When hiking with your dog(s), please ensure you have water for them. You can even get a packable water bowl to throw in your hiking backpack with water and other supplies. Happy trails!