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New Jersey
9

New Jersey State Parks

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New Jersey
Gateway Region
Abram S Hewitt State Forest
Abram S Hewitt State Forest © Adam Moss / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
A group of hikers overlook a lake in Abram S. Hewitt State Forest in New Jersey.
Eastern Goldfinch © stateparks.com
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ABRAM S HEWITT STATE FOREST
ABRAM S HEWITT STATE FOREST
c/o Wawayanda State Forest
Hewitt, New Jersey   07421

Phone: 973-853-4462
Rocky outcrops and upland swamps characterize Abram S. Hewitt State Forest. Upon entering the forest, the Appalachian Trail ascends to Bearfort Ridge. The glacially carved ridge offers spectacular views eastward along Greenwood Lake. Bearfort Mountain is the eastern terminus of the Wawayanda Plateau. At this point, the Appalachian Trail leaves New Jersey and enters New York. A section of Bearfort Ridge reaches into Hewitt State Forest, offering hikers a challenging climb with a rewarding view. The forest is isolated and untouched, accessible only on foot. Marshes and wetlands are scattered throughout the forest with several brooks and streams crisscrossing the lower areas. Hemlock and oak are the dominant species of this relatively undisturbed forest.
History of the Area
1. Early Inhabitants: Prior to European colonization, the area now known as Abram S. Hewitt State Forest was inhabited by the Lenape Native American tribe. They lived off the land and utilized the forest's resources for their sustenance.

2. Colonial Era: The land was later settled by Europeans in the 18th century. During this period, it was primarily used for agriculture, with farmers cultivating crops and raising livestock in the area.

3. Industrialization: In the late 19th century, the region saw rapid industrialization. Several iron mines and furnaces were established in the nearby town of Ringwood. This period brought significant economic growth to the area.

4. Abram Stevens Hewitt: The forest is named after Abram Stevens Hewitt, a prominent figure associated with the industrial development of the region. Hewitt was a successful iron manufacturer, industrialist, and philanthropist. In addition to promoting industry, Hewitt was also a renowned politician and served as mayor of New York City.

5. Conservation Efforts: As the region's iron industry declined in the early 20th century, there was a growing recognition of the importance of preserving the expansive forests in northern New Jersey. To ensure the protection of the area's natural resources, the state government began acquiring land for conservation purposes, which eventually led to the establishment of the Abram S. Hewitt State Forest in 1938.

6. State Forest Development: Over the years, the Abram S. Hewitt State Forest has undergone development to enhance its recreational value. Facilities such as picnic areas, campsites, and hiking trails were added to cater to visitors interested in outdoor activities.
Nearby Accommodations
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Cedar Lakes Cottages - Port Jervis, NY
Cottages and Cabins
Cedar Lakes is a gorgeous 500-acre estate surrounding twin cedar lakes. We have a selection of deluxe cottages for nightly or weekly rentals. Enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, tennis, and swimming on the property. Cottages have full kitchens, fireplaces, WIFI, and great amenities--all for the price of a hotel.
18.6 miles from park*
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Trails
1. Bearfort Ridge Loop: This 7. 5-mile loop is one of the most popular trails in Abram S Hewitt State Forest, offering a challenging hike with several steep sections and rock scrambles.

2. Surprise Lake Trail: A moderate trail that stretches for about 6 miles round trip, it leads to an enchanting lake nestled amidst dense woods - perfect for picnicking or swimming during summer months.

3. Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Greenwood Lake To Wawayanda State Park: Spanning approximately 10 miles within the forest boundaries, this section offers panoramic views over New Jersey and neighboring states from various viewpoints along its route.

4. Ernest Walker Multi-use Pathway (EWMP): EWMP provides easy access through mixed hardwood forests on mostly flat terrain making it suitable even for novice hikers or families with children; extends around three-quarters of a mile long each way.

5. The Terrace Pond North & South Trails: These two interconnected loops total nearly five miles combined featuring rocky outcrops providing stunning vistas across surrounding landscapes as well as leading to tranquil Terrace Pond itself where wildlife sightings are common.

6. State Line Trail: Approximately four-miles-long trail traverses diverse terrains including wetlands before culminating at scenic overlooks into both New York state and northern parts of NJ's Skylands region.

7. Quail-Overlook-Cornwall Hill Circuit: An intermediate-level circuit stretching just under six-and-a-half-miles showcasing varied flora/fauna plus occasional glimpses onto nearby reservoir waters below.

8. Pine Swamp Loop via AT/Appalachian Connector/State Line/Surprise Lake/Bearfort Waters/Cornwall Fire Tower Routes: Roughly nine-mile journey encompassing multiple habitats ranging from swampy lowland areas up towards higher elevation ridges affording expansive outlook points throughout.

9. Bearfort Mountain Natural Area Paths: Multiple paths crisscross this protected natural area covering diverse ecosystems and offering opportunities for bird-watching, wildflower spotting or simply soaking in serene forest atmospheres.

10. The Unmarked Trail: This is a less-traveled path that leads to the secluded Surprise Lake; it's about 2 miles long but requires good navigation skills due to lack of clear trail markers.

11. Bearfort Ridge via Appalachian/Quail Trails: A challenging eight-mile hike ascending steeply towards Bearfort Ridge where breathtaking views await those willing enough to tackle its demanding terrain.
Area Attractions
Appalachian Trail

Rocky outcrops and upland swamps characterize Abram S. Hewitt State Forest. Upon entering the forest, the Appalachian Trail ascends to Bearfort Ridge. The glacially carved ridge offers spectacular views eastward along Greenwood Lake. Bearfort Mountain is the eastern terminus of the Wawayanda Plateau. At this point, the Appalachian Trail leaves New Jersey and enters New York.

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Area Campgrounds
Beaver Hill Campground
120 Big Spring Road
Hardyston, NJ
973-827-0670
Tall Timbers POA Inc.
100 Tall Timbers Road
Sussex, NJ
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Mastodon Sporting Goods
195 Highland Lakes Rd
Highland Lakes, NJ
(973) 764-0200
Davis Sport Shop
120 Route 17
Sloatsburg, NY
(845) 753-2198
Area Cabins and Lodges
Hidden Valley Resort
44 Breakneck Rd
Vernon, NJ
(973) 764-4200
Resort Club Inc
3 Telemark Dr
Vernon, NJ
(973) 209-4362
Minerals Resort & Spa
2 Chamonix Dr
Vernon, NJ
(973) 827-2222
Resort Club at the Great Gorge
State Rt 94
Vernon, NJ
(973) 827-8000

Directions
Abram S. Hewitt State Forest is located in Vernon Township off of Warwick Turnpike. The forest can be reached by taking Route 23 to Union Valley Road into West Milford. At the light past the town hall, bear left and continue on Union Valley Road. At the next fork in the road, turn left onto White Road and at the next intersection turn right. Parking is along both sides of Warwick Turnpike. Trails start near stream.

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New Jersey
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New Jersey State Parks

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