Discover the eerie Feltville Historic District Trails in New Jersey, featuring an abandoned village and rumored hauntings.

The Garden State's forests hide all sorts of secrets—you can even hike to ruins in New Jersey! Lots of us know about the abandoned villages of the Pine Barrens, including Batsto and Estelle Manor, but did you know that North Jersey has its own share of abandoned spots? The Feltville Historic District Trails feature a deserted and eerie village that you can hike right through; it's located up in the highlands of New Jersey near I-78. This is one of the most haunted hikes in New Jersey, and it's one you won't soon forget.

The Watchung Reservation is tucked away in Union County, New Jersey. It's home to miles of trails, wildlife, and an abandoned, deserted village. As you wander through Feltville, you'll encounter eight houses, a church, a general store, and even an old carriage house. This village was originally a mill town, established in 1736. Eventually, it turned into a small farm town and gradually drew in summertime visitors to its beautiful mountain location. The resort was known as Glenside Park, and it was in operation between 1882 and 1916.

Despite being called the "Deserted Village" on official Watchung maps, three families still lived here as recently as 2023. Their homes are private property and must be respected as such, but the rest of the village is open to visitors who want to hike through and take a glimpse into the past. That said, it's important not to walk onto any porches, as they are not structurally safe.

The forest itself is beautiful, and you can see how the landscape was used for milling and farming. Like many New Jersey woods, this forest is beautiful and just a bit haunting. There are remnants of the past scattered about. There are plenty of urban legends of Feltville ghosts. Whether the village itself is haunted or not, you'll have to decide for yourself.

There's even a cemetery here, which helps fuel rumors of ghosts and spirits still hanging around their old mills and summer homes. Of all the "spooky hiking trails near me" in New Jersey, this one just might take the cake.

You can learn more about the history of this hike to ruins in New Jersey, which dates back to the 1700s, on the Union County Parks website. Have you ever hiked any of the Feltville Historic District Trails? Are there any other "spooky hiking trails near me" in New Jersey that we should know about? Tell us in the comments.

For more information on the coolest and creepiest abandoned places in the Garden State, check out these staggering photos of creepy and abandoned places in New Jersey. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.