Explore the Ken Lockwood Gorge

Califon, New Jersey

4.3/5
based on 3 reviews

Description

Added by Michael Martineau

River stocked with trout. Abandoned railroad trestle. Access to Columbia Trail. Naturalist's dream.

One of New Jerseys best kept secrets has to be the Ken Lockwood Gorge. If you are looking for a relaxing, beautiful, and nature packs place then this area is perfect for you. You can access the gorge from two different points, either by driving down Raritan River Rd. and parking right before you enter (you can also driving part of the way through to the larger parking areas but the road is extremely narrow) or by taking the Columbia Trail and then walking down the steep hillside.

Once you have parked you will immediately see fisherman walking around or in the water. The state stocks the South Branch of the Raritan River every year with rainbow trout, brown trout, and more. Some of the best fishing in the state is here in my opinion so get there early if you are looking to fish.

Biking through the gorge either on the Columbia Trail or the dirt road is also a highly suggested activity, especially in the fall. Do not try riding a road bike through here though, a cruiser or mountain bike is needed.

If you are just looking to just relax, stroll along the road (closed to cars after the parking area) and take in the beautiful scenery. I really suggest bringing a camping hammock if you have one and setting it up along the banks of the river. The peacefulness and flowing water will put you right to sleep.

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Features

Chillin
Fishing
Photography
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
River
Scenic

Explore the Ken Lockwood Gorge Reviews

It is a recreational park, so no picnic ore fires aloud , fishing is only catch and Release, if you follow the Map from here go right after the last bridge then you come too the first parking spot you can keep going you will end by the secound spot where the most fishers starts ;)

We tried to make it harder on ourselves by being too much fishing gear but as you get lost in the beauty of the gorge you'll be out of the trail in no time. If you're going to fish it, I'd suggest walking a few pools first, you can do the entire trail very quickly

I've been here twice. Once with a group of photographers and another time my family and I packed a picnic baskets, skipped accrues to one one the rocks in the river and had a great time chilling and enjoying a meal.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Bike the Columbia Trail: Califon to High Bridge

Hike Hacklebarney State Park's Trout Brook Riverbanks

Merrill Creek Reservoir Perimeter Trail

Hiking in Musconetcong Gorge Preserve

Marble Hill Ice Cave via Warren-Highlands Trail

Hike to the Hidden Lockatong Waterfall