The Best Places To Go For a Walk (or Run) in Monmouth County

When the weather warms up, it's nice to get outside for a walk (or a run if you're one of those ambitious types.)

Liz Jeressi

There are plenty of great places to explore here in Monmouth County, why not try to see them all while you can!

1
Any boardwalk.
This one is the most obvious, so we'll just get it out of the way first. My favorite boardwalks for a stroll are Long Branch, Belmar, and Ocean Grove...but really, can you go wrong with any of them? Head east and enjoy the sea breeze and ocean view!
2
Holmdel Park - Holmdel
When I was growing up, this was always the place people went to walk/jog/run. You haven't challenged yourself until you've done 'The Bowl!'
3
Thompson Park - Lincroft
This trail is great because a huge section of it is paved, so if dirt trails aren't your thing, it's perfect! It's always busy with walkers/joggers/runners on a nice sunny day.
4
Hartshorne Woods - Highlands
This is more of a hiking trail than an easy walk, but it also comes with some stunning views! If you can handle it, it's totally worth it!
5
Allaire State Park - Farmingdale
Allaire has a ton of trails to explore, and of course the historic Allaire Village, which is always worth a visit!
6
Manasquan Reservoir - Howell
My dad used to take my brother and me fishing at Manasquan Reservoir when we were kids, and it's an excellent place to go for a walk! There's something really soothing about being by the water, and it's a nice, easy walk.
7
Deep Cut Gardens - Middletown
Deep Cut Gardens is just a beautiful place. You'll see plants and flowers of all kinds, and it's easy to feel like you've escaped reality! This is more of a meandering stroll kind of place, but sometimes that's the best kind of walk!
8
Henry Hudson Trail - Marlboro
The Henry Hudson Trail has several locations in Monmouth County, but my favorite section is the part that goes from Big Brook Park in Marlboro down into Freehold. It always felt like a hidden gem to me!