The Sunfish Pond Natural Area encompasses over 250 acres of land with several hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail. Though there are many gorgeous hikes along Worthington State Forest, today’s focus is on ones leading to Sunfish Pond. Pack your snacks and fill your water bottle, because it’s time to trek one of The Best NJ Hiking Trails.
Parking for this hike is available near the Dunnfield Creek Natural Area off I-80 in Columbia, Warren County. There is also parking near the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center right across the highway. From either of these lots, the most direct route to Sunfish Pond is the Appalachian Trail (the white trail). The trail winds a bit and can get a tad rocky, but it’s a manageable hike for all skill levels. However, keep in mind that this route is several miles long, so it is not a quick hike. Despite this, you can extend the hike even further by following along Sunfish Pond’s north side. If you do, there’s a scenic view about a mile past the east end of the lake.
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Getting to Sunfish Pond
The Appalachian Trail begins right at the Dunnfield Creek Natural Area. It starts north, and then cuts northeast after about a quarter mile. The Appalachian Trail is very straightforward, you just stick to the white trail markers.
If you want a different trail to Sunfish Pond, the path eventually splits off toward the Pahaquarry Trail (right side). This Pahaquarry Trail appears light blue on the Worthington State Forest trail map. Shortly thereafter, you’ll come to another fork; keep left, and this will bring you onto the Dunnfield Creek Trail (light green), a direct path to Sunfish Pond. When you reach the Sawmill Ruins, you’re about halfway there. When you’re ready to head back to the lot, just retrace your steps.
If you’re a camper as well as a hiker, there is a campgrounds north of Sunfish Pond. In fact, the Worthington State Forest Campground in Hardwick Township holds 69 tent and trailer sites. You can reserve a campsite online (camping dates start on April 1), complete with picnic tables and fire rings. This area sits off Old Mine Road, which is accessible from I-80. Campground Road then runs parallel to Old Mine Road, and leads to the Worthington State Forest Campsite. Parking for this area is available in the Douglas Parking Lot. (To be clear, the Worthington State Forest Campsite is a specific area within the Worthington State Forest Campground.)
A Tale of Two Trails
From the Worthington State Forest Campsite, there are two trails that will lead you toward Sunfish Pond. The first is the Garvey Springs Trail (orange). This one brings you closest to the pond, ending up just east of the destination; Taking the Garvey Springs Trail all the way to its end will merge you onto the Appalachian Trail. You’ll then head a short distance west toward the pond. This route takes you to the opposite end of Sunfish Pond from any other trail in our feature.
Your second option from the Worthington State Forest Campsite is the Douglas Trail (dark blue). This trail is a little more than a mile and a half long; and at its end also links up with the Appalachian Trail. Follow the trail a half-mile east from this point, and you’ll come to the west end of Sunfish Pond.
All of these trails are rather simple and suitable for any skill level. There’s some slight elevation the closer you get to Sunfish Pond, but nothing too tough. Worthington State Forest offers lush scenery, with trails that are clear and easily identifiable; just keep an eye out for loose rocks and stray roots. You’ll also need plenty of water and snacks in order to fully enjoy this hike.
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All Photos: © Patrick Lombardi / Best of NJ
