3 more recreational weed shops open June 15 in NJ

TRENTON – Another three medical marijuana dispensaries will start recreational sales to all adults on Wednesday, marking the expansion of legal weed options in Central Jersey.

The Garden State Dispensary shops owned by Ayr Wellness Inc. will expand their operations Wednesday morning. At that point, there will be 16 state-licensed marijuana retailers in the state open to all adults.

“With the simultaneous opening of our three adult-use dispensaries, Ayr immediately has one of the largest adult-use retail footprints in the state of New Jersey. This marks a monumental step for our company,” said Jonathan Sandelman, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Ayr.

The new locations are in Eatontown, Union Township in Union County and Woodbridge.

The new locations aren’t the first in Central Jersey with recreational sales, as the Zen Leaf dispensary in Lawrence has been open since April.

There are also recreational/medical dispensaries in Elizabeth and Phillipsburg – though whether those municipalities would be considered to be in Central or North Jersey is a matter of debate and personal opinion.

Last month, the state approved five medical dispensaries to expand to recreational sales, on top of the 13 approved in April. The Ascend dispensary in Montclair is still working to secure needed local approvals, and the Apothecarium in Lodi hasn’t yet opened for medical or recreational sales.

Michael Symons is the Statehouse bureau chief for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at michael.symons@townsquaremedia.com

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Here's where NJ legal weed is sold

The number of recreational cannabis dispensaries continues to grow, with close to two dozen state approvals given since the first adult recreational sales in the state back in April. Here is where the open sites are located.

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: