New Jersey may not boast any major National Parks, but it does feature a national park unit and another on the way, along with three National Trails that provide thrilling outdoor experiences. The existing units are National Historical Parks, each with its unique charm.
National Park Units in New Jersey
New Jersey is home to two noteworthy National Historical Parks. One is already in operation, while the other is still being established—but you can still explore many of its intriguing sites.
Coltsville National Historical Park
Coltsville is a unique National Historical Park, currently in the process of becoming an official NPS unit. While it’s not yet fully established, it already attracts visitors curious about its rich history. Designated a national historic landmark in 2008 and authorized as a National Historical Park in 2014, Coltsville celebrates the legacy of Samuel Colt, the famous inventor behind the Colt revolver, and highlights the area’s role in the American Industrial Revolution. Although it lacks a visitor center at present, you can tour various historic factory sites and other significant locations.
Weir Farm National Historical Park
Established in 1990, Weir Farm commemorates the life and work of impressionist painter J. Alden Weir, along with other notable artists like Childe Hassam, Albert Pinkham Ryder, John Singer Sargent, and John Twachtman. This charming park in Wilton, CT spans over 60 acres and features key structures such as Weir’s original barn, studio, and house, all of which play a part in the visitor experience.
National Trails in New Jersey
National Trails are expansive routes that traverse multiple states, offering both geological wonders and historical sites. Three such trails run through Connecticut and are administered by the National Park Service, providing diverse settings to explore.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Affectionately known as the AT, this legendary trail extends nearly 2,200 miles from Maine to Georgia, snaking through the Appalachian Mountains. Created in 1921 and completed in 1937, it is managed by the NPS and maintained by over 30 trail clubs. The trail draws hundreds of thru-hikers and thousands of shorter hikes annually, with 48 miles winding through Connecticut.
New England National Scenic Trail
This trail stretches almost 235 miles from Connecticut through Massachusetts to the New Hampshire border, connecting three shorter trails—the Mattabesett, Metacomet, and Metacomet-Monadnock Trails. Its highest point is Mount Grace at 1,617 feet, while its lowest is at sea level along Long Island Sound.
Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail
In 1781, French General Rochambeau marched alongside George Washington’s Army to Yorktown, VA, in a decisive move against the British. This historic trail commemorates the largest troop movement of the American Revolutionary War, offering sites from Massachusetts to Virginia. In Connecticut, you can visit Lebanon Green, utilized as winter quarters by the French Cavalry between 1780 and 1781.
Explore National Park Sites in Nearby States
Extend your adventure by checking out National Park Sites in neighboring states like New York, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts.