The Delaware River includes one of the most important shorelines in American history. What is now known as Washington Crossing State Park is the site where General Washington earned a major victory; re-entering New Jersey with his troops to win back high value territory from the British and Hessian forces. The park blends NJ and US history with the scenic outdoors.
Of course, it is now a wonderful hiking trail. But in the late 18th century, it was the site of multiple pivotal Revolutionary War battles. (Click here to learn more about these historic battles.) The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection maintains Washington Crossing State Park. Visitors can find parking off Bear Tavern Road (County Road 579) and Washington Crossing-Pennington Road (County Road 546); as well as New Jersey Route 29. Likewise, the Nature Center is near the center of the park at 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Road in Titusville.
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Starting the Hike
Two hiking trails are accessible from the Nature Center. The Red Trail offers a three-quarter-mile loop, which also connects with the Blue, Green, and White trails; these three trails are quick loops, as well. In particular, this series of trails is great for bird watching, especially the White Trail.
Meanwhile, the second trail from the Nature Center is the Self Guided Trail (Orange). Following this trail leads to many of the Washington Crossing State Park historic sites. The south end of this Self Guided Trail connects with the Red Dot Trail. This Red Dot Trail goes farther south, and eventually leads to a fork in the path; at this point, head west to continue along the Red Dot Trail for a couple more miles. It will then link up with the Green Dot Trail, which is where the historic sites are found.
The Green Dot Trail
About a half mile into the Green Dot Trail is the Stone Barn (a stop with restrooms). This barn was built in the 1780s and is regularly open to the public. It actually contains a woodworkers shop identical to how one would look during the 18th century. Then, further down the Green Dot Trail is the Johnson Ferry House. This 18th century farmhouse and tavern is said to be where Washington and his men stayed during their crossing. The property includes a kitchen garden and orchard as well as a number of period pieces inside the house. It is open to the public Wednesdays through Sundays.
South of the Johnson Ferry House is the scenic overlook. This area provides a precise view of where Washington’s troops crossed the Delaware the night of Christmas 1776. Finally, the southern-most end of the Green Dot Trail connects with the Pedestrian Overpass. This links up with the Delaware & Raritan Canal Trail. Between the canal and the river is another historic site, The Nelson House. However, this 19th century structure wasn’t around at the time of Washington’s crossing. But it is significant because it is the last remaining structure of the Nelson Hotel; which was destroyed by a train derailment in 1904.
Washington Crossing State Park
There are various routes between the Delaware River and Washington Crossing State Park. Most visitors park near the Nelson House and travel along the Pedestrian Overpass along the Continental Lane Trail. Most of the paths throughout the park are smooth or paved. However, some of the wooded trails do have occasional rocks and exposed roots; but overall it is an easy hike for beginners.
Washington Crossing State Park offers a number of scenic trails, fields, day-use areas, and even an arboretum. But its magic lies in its shores. Visitors can trek right up to the spot where the Patriots berthed their rowboats; and witness where they marched along the frozen ground to the turning point of the American Revolution.
Click here for more of The Best NJ Hiking Trails.
All Photos: © Patrick Lombardi / Best of NJ
