Trail Shrinks
Dunnfield Creek Natural Area
I-80
Columbia, NJ, US, 07832
Hike through some of the prettiest forest in New Jersey to a glacial lake 1,000 feet above the surrounding area.
Trail surface: The Gap is notorious for rocks and will give feet and joints a good pounding. It can be hiked in sneakers… but we wouldn’t recommend it. The Appalachian Trail is rockier than the Dunnfield Creek Trail, in our opinion.
Water crossings: The Dunnfield Creek (GREEN) trail contains several rock-hops across the creek. After real heavy rain, they can be a bit tricky to negotiate. Trekking poles or a stick can come in handy.
Hike Info:
–Trail Map (http://www.amazon.com/dp/1880775751/?tag=njhiking-20)
–Park info (http://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/index.htm)
–Google Map (http://www.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=100669985122335639090.00049674661f67d1d17d3&ll=40.983397,-75.10005&spn=0.062396,0.096645&z=14)
Our two cents: Sunfish Pond is a popular destination, but rightly so. For newer hikers, this is hike is manageable… but it’s also not a “walk in the park” and 7.6+ miles may be longer than you realize or can comfortably do.
While on our way back, we’ve passed many weary hikers asking “how much farther to the pond?” Please bring water, have appropriate footwear, and honestly assess your fitness level. This is not a good choice for your first hike.
There are several ways to Sunfish Pond, these are the routes from the Rt 80 Dunnfield lot: