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Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 137 Google reviews · Running trail in Piscataway, New Jersey · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Park featuring 77 miles of canal built by Irish immigrants in 1836, plus hiking, biking, and picnicking.
What runners say about Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail
“Very even easy trails and a variety of Reptiles to view.”
One of the best classic trails in central NJ. I’ve walked, jogged, and bike rode here. This trail is ideal for biking since after bound brook it’s mostly all flat. Also, you can see all sorts of tiny critters and wildlife. Would give a 5/5 however if you leave from Somerset here are some things to keep in mind.
Great place to visit and take daily hikes with the kids. Very even easy trails and a variety of Reptiles to view. I have found 2 snake pits containing Great Northern Banded Water snakes and Eastern Ribbon and Eastern Garter snakes. There are approximately ten types of turtles you can find basking in the sunlight too.
The best place ever for biking 🚴♀️, walking 🚶♀️, jogging 🏃♀️, and kayaking . Love ❤️ this Trail
My go to place for a quick walk, nice bike ride. D&R canal is a very easy trail with beautiful scenery.. Keep in mind this trail was a canal tow path, so it's flat and straight, not strenuous at all. Best to hike or bike ride during the weekdays (particularly in the morning) when the park is less crowded.
Trail conditions & character
“Keep in mind this trail was a canal tow path, so it's flat and straight, not strenuous at all.”
“The parking was plenty and the pictures in Google map are enticing.”
Plan your run at Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Websitedandrcanal.com
- Phone+1 609-397-2000
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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