New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route facts for kids

The New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route is a super long path, almost 300 miles, that stretches along the eastern and southern coasts of New Jersey. It takes you on an amazing journey from Perth Amboy along the Raritan Bay to Sandy Hook. Then, it follows the famous Jersey Shore along the Atlantic Ocean all the way down to Cape May. Finally, it continues along the Delaware Bay to the Delaware Memorial Bridge. This special trail connects many cool places, including New Jersey state parks and sites managed by the National Park Service. It's a great way to explore New Jersey's diverse coastal areas.

Exploring the Coastal Regions

The New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail is divided into different regions, each with its own unique history, nature, and fun things to see and do. Let's take a look at some of these exciting areas.

Raritan Bayshore and Sandy Hook Region

This northern part of the trail explores the areas around the Raritan Bay and the famous Sandy Hook. It's a mix of history and natural beauty.

Middlesex County Highlights

• Cheesequake State Park: This park is a fantastic place to visit. You can explore different types of environments here, from saltwater marshes to forests. It's perfect for hiking, fishing, and enjoying nature.
• Perth Amboy Harbor Walk: Take a stroll along the water in Perth Amboy. It's a nice spot to see boats and enjoy views of the harbor.

Monmouth County Adventures

• Allaire State Park: Step back in time at this park! It features a historic 19th-century village called Allaire Village. You can see old buildings, and sometimes even ride a steam train. It's a fun way to learn about life long ago.
• Mount Mitchell Scenic Overlook: This spot offers amazing views of the Sandy Hook Bay and the New York City skyline in the distance. It's a great place for taking photos.
• Twin Lights State Historic Site: These two historic lighthouses stand tall on a hill. They were important guides for ships entering the harbor. You can learn about their history and enjoy the views.
• Sandy Hook, Gateway National Recreation Area: Sandy Hook is a long, narrow peninsula with beautiful beaches and important historical sites. You can swim, sunbathe, or visit Fort Hancock, an old military fort. It's also a great spot for birdwatching.
• Sea Bright–Monmouth Beach Seawall: This massive wall protects the coastline from ocean storms. It's an impressive structure that shows how people work to protect the land.

Barnegat Bay Region

Moving south, this region centers around the Barnegat Bay, a large, shallow body of water that's home to lots of wildlife.

Ocean County Wonders

• Barnegat Bay Decoy & Baymen's Museum: This museum celebrates the history of hunting and fishing on the Barnegat Bay. You can see cool wooden duck decoys and learn about the people who worked on the bay.
• Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: "Old Barney," as it's affectionately known, is a tall, historic lighthouse at the northern tip of Long Beach Island. You can climb to the top for incredible panoramic views of the ocean and bay.
• Cattus Island Park: This park is a natural gem with walking trails that wind through forests and along the bay. It's a peaceful place to observe local plants and animals.
• Double Trouble State Park: This park offers a glimpse into New Jersey's past with its historic cranberry bog and a preserved village. It's a unique place to learn about the state's agricultural history.
• Island Beach State Park: This is one of New Jersey's last undeveloped barrier islands. It's a wild and beautiful place with pristine beaches, dunes, and diverse wildlife. It's perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
• Toms River Seaport Society Museum: Learn about the maritime history of Toms River and the surrounding area. See old boats and artifacts that tell the story of life on the water.

Absecon Region

This area includes the famous city of Atlantic City and stretches down towards Cape May, offering a mix of coastal attractions and wildlife refuges.

Atlantic County Attractions

• Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge: This huge refuge is a paradise for birds and birdwatchers. It protects thousands of acres of coastal wetlands, providing a safe home for many migratory birds. You can drive or walk along trails to see different bird species.
• U.S. Coast Guard Station, Atlantic City: This station is home to the brave men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard who work to keep our waters safe.

Cape May County Gems

• Cape May Point State Park: Located at the very southern tip of New Jersey, this park is famous for its lighthouse and as a major stopover point for migratory birds. It's a fantastic place for birdwatching, especially in spring and fall.
• Corson's Inlet State Park: This park is a beautiful natural area with dunes, beaches, and wetlands. It's a great spot for fishing, crabbing, and enjoying the quiet beauty of the coast.
• Cape May Migratory Bird Refuge (The Nature Conservancy's William D. & Jane C. Blair Jr.): This refuge is another critical spot for birds. Many different species stop here during their long migrations. It's a wonderful place to learn about bird conservation.
• The Wetlands Institute: This educational center is dedicated to protecting and studying coastal wetlands. You can explore exhibits, walk on elevated walkways over the marsh, and learn about the important role wetlands play in our environment.
• Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area: This area is known for its diverse habitats, including forests, dunes, and beaches. It's a popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying nature.