By: Madison Rosenberg, Follow South Jersey Community Journalist
GLOUCESTER COUNTY — Temperatures are finally above freezing, and that means New Jersey residents will start spending time outside again.
The Garden State has this name for a reason with beautiful (and sometimes overlooked) scenery all across the state, from hard-to-climb hills to paved trails on the side of the road, hidden in the trees.
South Jersey and Gloucester County are no exceptions. There are plenty of trails in the area that don’t require hiking gear or any strenuous effort to explore. All you need is yourself and some bug spray. Creeks, lush forests, mostly flat ground, and relaxing views are all guaranteed on these paths. For people who love to be in nature but dread climbing, or those who love to go on nature walks, or those who simply want to get outside more this spring, these two trails are a great way to start getting outdoors as the weather warms up.
The first trail is an easy walk with a big reward. Ceres Park’s Cedar and Emerald Lake Loop has a dirt trail as well as sections with wooden boardwalks for visitors to walk on. On the trail, there are very few changes in the terrain and minimal changes in elevation, making this spot very accessible to residents who just want a relaxing walk or may struggle with more intense hikes. According to South Jersey Trails, Several viewpoints overlooking Cedar Lake and Emerald Lake can be easily found by following the paths that are laid out clearly for guests.
Animals are also a common sight on trails. Animals native to New Jersey, such as white-tailed deer, turtles, rabbits, snakes, and a variety of songbirds, are almost guaranteed to pop up along trails. For birdwatchers or people who just love animals, New Jersey is lucky enough to have such diverse wildlife, and residents can find their nearest trail and will likely see one of these critters roaming around.
Another trail to explore is the Mantua Creek Trail. The trailhead is on West Mantua Avenue, across the street from a baseball field and almost concealed by the grass and trees surrounding it. Clear paths made from dirt and boardwalks make the trail easy to navigate, and there are some elevation changes, but they aren’t steep enough to deter a beginner. Along the trail, there are multiple areas to stop and take in some views, and sometimes benches to allow hikers to sit down and take it all in.
Along the path, there is an elevated point called Clay Hill overlooking the creek, with an informational panel about the Mantua Creek Trestle, which was a 32-foot-high wooden structure that traveled through Mantua Creek at the spot of the panel. Trains along the West Jersey Railroad, which expanded in 1860 to travel from Woodbury to Glassboro through what is now Wenonah, used this trestle until 1870, when the line was moved slightly east, where it still operates.
For Gloucester County residents who want to explore their area a little more, or want to get into hiking but don’t know where to start, or just want to be outside without feeling like they need hiking poles and supply bags, these two trails are great places to start.
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