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Great Reasons to Get Walking This Season, New Jersey

AARP

Published August 10, 2026

Participants enjoy a group wellness walk that encourages physical activity, healthy aging, and social connection

Great Reasons to Get Walking This Season, New Jersey — because New Jersey was made for walking (yes, really).

Let's be honest. "You should walk more" is not exactly a thrilling thing to hear. But "there's a free doctor-led stroll through the park with refreshments at the end"? Now we're talking.

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New Jersey happens to be a genuinely great state for walking. We've got beaches, boardwalks, canal paths, waterfront views of New York City, and trails through swamps with surprisingly excellent names. And whether you want company, conversation, or just a quiet hour to yourself, there's a walk here for you.

Here are some of our favorites plus a monthly group walk in New Brunswick you'll definitely want to know about.

Stroll the boards — NJ's classic walk for Garden State adults

Garden State residents who love the coast already know nothing beats a boardwalk walk in the morning before the crowds show up. Along the Jersey shore, a pathway by the beach provides a popular place for residents and visitors to enjoy ocean views. Whether you're in Asbury Park, Ocean City, or Cape May, you're never far from one of the best (and flattest) walking routes in the state. Salt air, sunrise, maybe a cup of coffee — honestly, what's not to love?

Walk beside the water — the Delaware & Raritan Canal Trail

For adults in central New Jersey, the D&R Canal Trail is one of New Jersey’s hidden gems. Spanning 73.6 miles, the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail is the longest completed multiuse trail in the state. You don't have to walk 73 miles, obviously. Even a short stretch through Princeton or Millstone is gorgeous: flat, shaded, and peaceful in a way that makes you forget you live minutes from the Turnpike. Which exit?

Take in the NYC skyline — the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway

If you're in North Jersey and want some of the best skyline views around without dealing with the hassle of going into Manhattan, the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is hard to beat. Stretching nearly 22 miles along the river, this scenic path connects communities like Jersey City, Hoboken, and Weehawken while offering incredible views of the New York City skyline the entire way. The walkway is made up of boardwalks, promenades, and paved paths, making it an easy and enjoyable option for a casual stroll, a longer walk, or simply a place to take in the views. Best of all, those picture-worthy skyline views don't cost a dime.

Go somewhere with a great name — the Great Swamp

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For adults in Morris County who are tired of the same neighborhood loop, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is worth the detour. Located in Morris County, this sprawling wildlife refuge offers miles of walking trails, scenic boardwalks, and plenty of opportunities to spot birds, deer, turtles, and other wildlife. Whether you're hiking through the wilderness area, exploring the Wildlife Observation Center, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, it's an easy way to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors.

Walk with neighbors and a doctor in New Brunswick — free monthly walks for NJ adults

If you'd rather walk with a crowd (and maybe learn something useful without sitting through a lecture), this one's for you.

AARP New Jersey, Saint Peter's University Hospital, and Healthier Middlesex invite you to be part of a free monthly community walk, designed for people of all ages and abilities. Each walk begins with a 5-minute "Ask the Doc" moment, featuring a local healthcare professional who shares simple, practical tips you can use right away. Past topics have included better sleep, stress reduction, heart health, and more. After that, the group walks together at a comfortable pace, giving participants time to chat, make connections, and enjoy being part of a supportive community. You don't have to be an AARP member to join.

Where: Buccleuch Park Pavilion, 321 Easton Ave., New Brunswick, NJ 08901

When: Second Saturday of each month, 10–11 a.m.

Remaining 2026 walk dates:

Bring a friend and receive a free t-shirt. Light refreshments will be offered. Yes, actual refreshments.

Explore more at aarp.org/nj and aarp.org/health/healthy-living

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