Cold Spot and Hammer Trail Loop

High Rocks State Park, a section of Ralph Stover State Park, offers visitors some of the best views in Eastern Pennsylvania. Across from the parking lot on Tory Road, you will find the main trailhead. This will lead you to several different trail options, all varying in length, and all bringing you to beautiful scenic spots. The trail I suggest taking is the yellow/red loop.From the High Rocks ...

Apart from the rock, there's more trail to follow for a stunning overview and a great spot to hang out and relax. The view is a must-see, it is so much better in person. The hike is not challenging at all, it is basically a straight trail. Climbing some medium sized rocks might be required, but it is not anything difficult or dangerous. In the end, whatever the challenge may be, the view will b...

Drive 5.2 miles north on Route 29 from the center of Stockton, NJ and you will come across a very small parking lot on the left side of the road. If you park your car there, walk back south on Route 29 about 50 feet, and cross over to the woods-side of the road. There you will find the trailhead to this rewarding hike. You have two options when you begin. You can either take the trail all t...

If you're on Kingwood Stockton Road, there will be a dirt road with a Lockatong Nature Preserve sign before it (going north on Kingwood Stockton Road, the sign will be on your left. If you're driving south, the sign will be on your right). Just drive all the way until the end of the dirt road and park where you wish. There will be one trail and you have to follow the trail all the way until you...

The feeder area is located in Peace Valley Park, tucked right behind the Peace Valley Nature Center. Here is where you'll find many unique smaller species. The shelter is covered and has several benches to relax on as you watch and photograph many varieties of birds. I've seen many blue jays and cardinals here, which are my personal favorites because of their bold colors. Don't forget to also t...

Start out on Ridge Trail (yellow blazes), found at the rear of the parking lot. Shortly, you will come to a stream crossing, followed by a set of wooden steps. Just before the next stream, turn left following the white blazes. This section of the trail makes a moderately rocky descent, as it follows the stream downhill.Around 2 miles in, you will reach a gravel path, where you will turn right a...