The Columbia Trail
The Columbia Trail is a multi-use path that runs for 15 miles from High Bridge in Hunterdon County to the border of Mt. Olive and Washington Township in Morris County. Built upon an abandoned railroad corridor, the trail is named for the Columbia Gas Line constructed under the former rail bed in the 1990's. Typical of rail trails, the route is relatively flat as it parallels the meandering South Branch of the Raritan River. Developed and maintained by the Hunterdon and Morris County Parks Departments, the trail surface is mostly crushed stone with short segments of larger gravel or dirt. Bicycles with wider tires are recommended.
There are several options suggested for enjoying the trail and vicinity. In addition to the trail with its bucolic setting and spectacular views, two on-road alternatives are presented. The southern on-road alternative diverges from the trail at Califon. It hugs the South Branch of the Raritan River through Ken Lockwood Gorge on a one lane road that is closed to motor vehicle traffic. This on-road segment connects to the trail at its southern terminus in High Bridge. The northern on-road alternative deviates from the trail at Long Valley and reconnects with the trail to the south at Middle Valley Road. This option is hilly and challenging.
Borough of High Bridge
The Borough of High Bridge is a quaint, small town with shops, restaurants and many historical buildings, including the Taylor-Wharton Iron and Steel Company (TISCO) complex. The 28.3 acre TISCO Complex was one part of the Union Iron Works founded in 1742. The Iron Works produced tools and cannon balls for Washington's Army during the Revolutionary War. The Taylor-Wharton Iron and Steel Company was the nation's oldest continuously operating foundry in the country and America's second oldest business. The property is now a part of the borough's permanent open space.
Ken Lockwood Gorge Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
The Ken Lockwood Gorge WMA has been identified as one of the "Ten Most Beautiful Places in New Jersey" by New Jersey Monthly Magazine. Its steep slopes, huge boulders, impressive rapids and northern hemlocks, have made the Gorge an attractive site to birders, naturalists, kayakers, photographers, hikers, fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts.
Solitude Property
The Solitude Property consists of the Solitude House, Lake Solitude and Waterfall. Considered one of the most picturesque locations in High Bridge, the property is now used for canoeing, fishing, a museum and bird watching. Built for the manager of Union Forge, Solitude House served as a prison for John Penn, the last colonial governor of Pennsylvania, during the Revolutionary War.
Borough of Califon
The Borough of Califon is a Victorian-style enclave where the houses are marked with the names of the builders and their dates of establishment rather than with street numbers. The Califon Historical Society has registered 170 structures with the National Register of Historic Places.
Village of Long Valley
The Village of Long Valley is an unincorporated community located within and a part of Washington Township. The village includes a cluster of businesses, dwellings and restaurants nestled near the foot of Schooley's Mountain near the intersection of County Routes 513 and 517.
Willow Grove Farm
The Willow Grove Farm is home to a herd of over 30 Clydesdale Horses. Located in the Middle Valley section of Long Valley, it is one of the largest breeding and training facilities of Clydesdales in the East. The farm is host to a variety of events and activities including guided trail rides.
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