Green Trail Cheesequake State Park, New Jersey

When you think of beginner-friendly hikes in New Jersey, The Green Trail Cheesequake State Park should be one of the first names that comes to mind. Nestled between the urban buzz of the Garden State Parkway and quiet shore towns like Matawan and Keyport, this park feels like a little ecological time capsule with five unique habitats packed into one short trail.

🌾 A Trail Made for First-Timers

The 1.5-mile Green Trail is short, sweet, and filled with variety. You’ll meander along wide dirt paths and raised wooden boardwalks that float over marshland, all while surrounded by towering oaks, swaying grasses and the occasional splash of a blue heron in flight. The trail’s well-marked, color-coded blazes make navigation a breeze even if you’ve never set foot on a hiking path before.

This is the kind of place where kids can run ahead without worry, where older hikers can take their time and where solo walkers can slow down and soak up the sound of wind through the reeds.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Hike

Cheesequake isn’t about dramatic vistas or intense climbs, it’s about immersion. In just over a mile you’ll get a little bit of everything:

🪵 Boardwalks Over Salt Marshes – One of the most unique features of this trail is the elevated walkway that cuts through coastal wetlands. Bring your camera—sunlight reflecting off the water creates some truly photogenic moments.

🌳 Mixed Forest Trails – Stroll through shaded woodlands where oak, cedar and pine mix in a quiet canopy. The path is wide and flat, ideal for those still building their hiking legs.

🦆 Wildlife Spotting Opportunities – Keep your eyes open for turtles, foxes and wading birds. Bring binoculars if you have them—Cheesequake is a favorite for local birders.

🧭 Trail Facts & Coordinates

  • Location: Cheesequake State Park, Matawan, NJ
  • Trail Name: Green Trail (Loop Trail)
  • GPS Coordinates: 40.4406° N, 74.2750° W
  • Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
  • Elevation Gain: ~50 feet (minimal)
  • Trail Surface: Packed dirt & boardwalk
  • Time Estimate: 45–60 minutes

🚗 Practical Info

  • Parking: Free at the main lot (300 Gordon Rd, Matawan, NJ 07747)
  • Restrooms: Available near the park office
  • Pet-Friendly: Yes—leashed dogs welcome
  • Entry Fee: None
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the best weather and color

🎒 What to Bring for a Smooth Hike

This trail doesn’t require a lot of prep, but a few basics will help you enjoy it to the fullest:

  • Lightweight sneakers or hiking shoes
  • A bottle of water (no potable water on trail)
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
  • Bug spray during warmer months
  • Your phone or camera for nature shots

Need help choosing affordable hiking gear? Check out our beginner-friendly hiking essentials list.

🥾 Why It Belongs on Your Beginner Hiking List

Cheesequake’s Green Trail is exactly what beginner hikes should be: short but immersive, relaxing without being dull and packed with natural variety. Whether you’re easing into hiking, introducing kids to the outdoors or just carving out a peaceful hour in your day, this New Jersey gem delivers a memorable and very manageable trail experience.