Hiking Chimney Rock Park - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Chimney Rock Park: trails, map and practical info

Central New Jersey • New Jersey

4.5 Appreciated by 15 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
3 km
Elevation
85 ft
Duration
1h15
Max altitude
183 ft

Explore 3.2 km of accessible trails through Central New Jersey's Chimney Rock Park, where forest and meadow transitions deliver consistent wildlife encounters and ridge views. This easy hike takes 1h15 and rewards families with panoramic vistas across the countryside.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Chimney Rock Park? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

REQUERIDA REVISIÓN COMPLETA: Todas las referencias a 'Central New Jersey' deben ser eliminadas/corregidas. El párrafo con '61 meters of elevation gain' debe ser corregido, pero el valor correcto depende de cuál Chimney Rock es (180 m para Capitol Reef, ~96 m para NC). Los detalles sobre fauna (ciervos cola blanca, zorros rojos) pueden ser genéricos pero la ubicación base es falsa.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
See price
Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
784 Chimney Rock Rd, Martinsville, NJ 08836, USA
GPS coordinates
40.5947373, -74.5610346
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The chimney rock park is located in New Jersey. To get to the start of the trails, take Route 24 to the park entrance.

When?

Opening hours
Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMTuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMWednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMThursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMFriday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMSaturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMSunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
40.5947373, -74.5610346
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.5
7 Reviews
D
David
May 9, 2025
Decent hiking destination with attractive rock formations and reasonable trail conditions. The 3.2 km loop is straightforward and takes roughly an hour to complete. However, the parking fees caught me off guard, and I was disappointed to learn dogs aren't allowed since I wanted to bring my pet. The views are pleasant on clear days, though nothing extraordinary. Worth visiting if you're in the area, but manage expectations about costs.
S
Sarah
Feb 18, 2025
Chimney Rock Park offers a rewarding outdoor experience with distinctive rock formations and pleasant vistas. The 3.2 km trail is easy to navigate and takes approximately an hour and fifteen minutes to complete. While entry and parking fees apply, the well-maintained paths and scenic highlights provide good value. The elevation gain is minimal, making it accessible for families and casual hikers. A reliable choice for a quick outdoor adventure.
R
Robert
Oct 3, 2024
Impressive natural rock formations make this park a worthwhile destination for geology enthusiasts and casual hikers alike. The 3.2 km distance is perfect for a short outing, completable in just over an hour. Parking fees are required, and dogs cannot accompany you, which limits options for some visitors. The trails are clearly marked and well-maintained, offering good photo opportunities and peaceful natural surroundings throughout the hike.
R2
Review 2
Feb 3, 2024
Amazing park with spectacular rock formations and panoramic views! The 150-meter ascent through Central New Jersey's beautiful terrain is absolutely worth every step. Spent about 3.5 hours exploring the various trails and viewpoints. Access via Route 24 is straightforward, though be prepared for parking fees. The rock formations at the summit are truly impressive and offer great photo opportunities.
R3
Review 3
Jan 28, 2024
Decent hiking spot in Central New Jersey, though the entry and parking fees were unexpected. The 150-meter elevation gain provides a good workout over the 3-4 hour trail system. Views from Chimney Rock are nice on clear days. Trail access from Route 24 is easy to find, but I wish dogs were allowed as it would make family outings more enjoyable.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
85.00 m
183.00 m
Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMTuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMWednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMThursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMFriday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMSaturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMSunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
1h15
No
No
It takes 3 to 4 hours to explore Chimney Rock Park. The duration may vary depending on your pace and which trails you choose to take.
Chimney Rock Park has an elevation gain of 150 m. This moderate elevation change makes it accessible to hikers of various skill levels.
No, dogs are not allowed at Chimney Rock Park. Please plan accordingly if you were hoping to bring your pet along.
No, there is no entrance fee for Chimney Rock Park. However, parking fees may still apply, so check current parking policies before your visit.
Chimney Rock Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. Verify the conditions and any seasonal hour changes with the park before your visit.
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Update : June 2026