Until I visited Ken Lockwood Gorge, I thought that I had exhausted all the “good spots” in NJ and there was nothing left to see. Fortunately I was wrong and in this post I want to talk about this amazing gem and what you can do there as well as some awesome photos to prove it.
Info:
- Name: Ken Lockwood Gorge
- Location: Lebanon Township NJ
- Cost to enter: Free
- Things to do: Fishing, hiking, walking, biking and more
- Distance from NYC: 1-2 hours
- Ideal time to go for: 1 day
- Reviews: 4.9 out of 5
Background:
Ken Lockwood Gorge is an amazing nature spot to explore. It stretches along the South Branch of the Raritan River and all along it, there’s many things to do which I’ll cover later. The gorge, named after Ken Lockwood, a renowned outdoorsman and conservationist, has been a cherished secret among locals for generations. There’s even a monument in the area honoring him.
This area is also pretty historic as it was once bustling with mills and an iron ore industry in the 19th century. Now, what remains is the serene whisper of the river.
Not only does Ken Lockwood Gorge boast historical intrigue, but it plays a pivotal role in the local ecosystem. Its clean, cold waters are essential for the thriving trout population which is why fishing there (catch and release) is one of the most popular activities.
Now, before you head out the door, there’s some information you’re going to need. Ken Lockwood Gorge is accessible throughout the year and there’s no entrance fee, which is always a welcome bonus.
Things to know before going:
(1) There’s 2 entrances to it:
- Ken Lockwood North (holds about 5 cars)
- Ken Lockwood South (holds about 20 cars)
It doesn’t matter which one you enter through as the walk is pretty much the same but just keep in mind you’ll need to return back the same way to exit.
(2) You can wear casual shoes, or preferbly hiking ones:
The area is filled with gravel, rocks and uneven terrain so I would recommend coming here with at the very least basic hiking shoes.
Things to do:
Hiking: The gorge’s hiking trails are a must-do. With varying levels of difficulty, choose something that resonates with you and your fitness level. The main hike is the actual walk along the Raritan River which is easy and about 2 miles long and takes you underneath the famous Ken Lockwood Gorge Bridge. There are connecting trails around the area well worth exploring too.
Fly fishing: This is another popular activity there. The South Branch Raritan River of the gorge is renowned for its brown and rainbow trout. It’s a popular spot, so if you want to sidestep the crowds, consider arriving early in the morning or on weekdays.
Photography: Photographers, bring your cameras, because the wildlife here doesn’t disappoint. The dense foliage and varied terrain make for some stunning wildlife snapshots.
Picnic: Round out a perfect day with a picnic. The gorge has several designated areas where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal amidst the sounds of the river and rustling leaves. Don’t worry too much about packing elaborate meals; even simple sandwiches taste better with a view like this. There’s even a few boulders in the middle of the Raritan river you can hop on to enjoy this activity (or just catch a tan).
Biking: I ran into a few people who biked through this area. They weren’t on mountain bikes but I would recommend having them here if you plan to bike through this place.
Walking: This is very popular here too so if you’re not a hiker, don’t worry. I’ve seen people casually walk through here, including with their dogs.
Best times to visit:
There’s no bad time to visit Ken Lockwood Gorge in my opinion, but each season offers its own unique magic. Let’s break down what you can expect throughout the year:
Spring at the gorge welcomes a fresh start as nature reawakens. The melting snow feeds the river, making it a dramatic backdrop for hikers and photographers. You’ll catch glimpses of newborn wildlife and spot wildflowers beginning to pepper the landscape. I went around this time and loved it because of the small crowds and chilly weather.
Summer is quite possibly the most popular. The river’s gentle flow is perfect for fly fishing or just dipping your toes into the cool water. Early mornings or late evenings offer the best light for nature photography during this season.
As fall rolls in, the gorge is in it’s most colorful element. The cooler temperatures are ideal for long hikes, and the crisp air makes every breath invigorating. This is a favorite time for many regular visitors, including photographer, so expect some company as you trek through the colorful foliage.
In winter, Ken Lockwood Gorge is serene and least crowded. The stark beauty of the snow-covered landscapes provides a peaceful solitude for those looking to escape the noise of daily life. Remember to dress warmly and take precautions on icy paths.
Other things to know:
I’m going to wrap this up by emphasizing the importance of preserving the pristine condition of Ken Lockwood Gorge. Stunning places like this are timeless, but only if we take proper care of them. You can always adjust your approach down the road, but starting out with a strong conservation mindset sets the precedent for everyone who visits after you.
Adopting “Leave No Trace” principles is a cornerstone of environmentally responsible tourism.
For anglers, there’s a lot of opportunity in the South Branch Raritan River. That’s why it’s crucial to follow responsible fishing practices. Not only does this help maintain the river’s aquatic health, but it ensures that the diverse fish populations continue to thrive for generations to come.
When hiking, please be mindful of the wildlife habitats you’re entering. These areas are home to countless species that rely on the undisturbed land for survival.
Overall I enjoyed my 1st visit to this place and plan to come back more times. It’s very serene and photogenic. On top of that the surrounding area is a beautiful scenic drive to enjoy. Afterwards, it’s worth stopping in Vorhees State Park that’s not far if you have some extra time in the day to check more places out.