Princeton-Mercer Region Hiking
In and around our bustling towns, gorgeous natural landscapes with hiking trails await you and your family year-round in the Princeton-Mercer Region. During your visit, explore our stunning wetlands, historical landmarks, and wildflower preserves on foot for an unforgettable journey with loved ones.
Incredible Views
The Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve Trail is an easily accessible spot near Princeton University and is perfect for a family hike. The 75-acre preserve is home to various rocky creeks, wetlands, and a trail, ideal for experienced hikers and families, that loops 2.3 miles around a stunning lake.
Another popular hiking spot is the Ted Stiles Preserve at Baldpate Mountain within Hopewell Township. The network of trails totals more than 11 miles and offers short and long excursions across the nearly 1,800-acre preserve. One of the trails features incredible views of the Delaware River.
Both of these Princeton hiking spots feature parking and bathrooms and allow leashed dogs.
A Historic Hike
The Institute Woods in Princeton is a nearly 600-acre preserve that features a scenic hiking trail through hardwoods and farmland, over a sturdy wooden bridge, and past Princeton Battlefield State Park, an American Revolution historical site and one of our must-see attractions. The total length of the hiking trail is about three miles, and parking is available at the state park.
Hike Year-Round
It's always a good time to go hiking in the Princeton-Mercer Region. Our trails are accessible throughout the year, and that includes the winter season depending on weather conditions.
Mercer Meadows, which spans 1,600 acres within Lawrence Township, offers several miles of mostly flat trails through meadows and woods. Along your hike, spot various species of birds and butterflies as you enjoy the cool winter weather.
At the Watershed Institute, also in Pennington, more than 10 miles of trails are open for hiking year-round past forests, wetlands, a pond, and an organic farm. On your journey, you will encounter some of the oldest trees in the region.
On your next family vacation, opt for a hiking excursion through Princeton-Mercer and delight in the natural beauty and unforgettable views and landmarks only our trails provide.
