The New Duke Farms: A Photo Documentary

November 9, 2015

I got lost in Duke Farms. But on an early Fall day, there is no more beautiful place to get lost. Even though I visited the Orientation Center and grabbed a handy map, I disregarded any form of guidance and let my legs do the leading. That turned out to be a brilliant decision. People meandered with their guide maps, but I couldn’t be happier not knowing where I was going.

I traveled throughout miles and miles of the farm’s 1,000 acres; whenever I came to a new path, I took it, looking to discover a new beauty deep within the farm’s heart—or, conversely, was halted by a RESTRICTED AREA sign and changed my direction. The estate’s staff is extremely friendly and welcoming, matching its 1,000-acre counterpart.

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Located at 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, the property is enormous; you can spend an entire day at Duke Farms and not take the same trail twice. You can hop on the tram, grab a bike, or walk, and all means of traveling are equally enjoyable.

Duke Farms encompasses magnificent variation throughout its property; there are numerous paved, dirt, and grassy paths guiding you throughout a marvelously diverse atmosphere. This is a habitat in which nature governs and man hasn’t left a stain. Though nearly every aspect of the property was intentionally and intricately designed, the Farm acts as an outstanding home for countless different types of animals.

In case I haven’t made it obvious by now, Duke Farms is a very green environment. In addition to many other features, they regenerate habitats, preserve wildlife, and conserve water through natural filtration systems. The property promotes a diversity of wildlife and plants, which are beneficial to humans as well, since healthy habitats provide us with “clean water, fresh air, and other valuable resources,” as stated in the Duke Farms’s Orientation Center.

I have been back to Duke Farms a number of times since my first visit, and will continue to venture the land until the weather blocks me out. As with the first trip, I will have no guide but my own instincts. I suggest you do the same; so do yourself a favor and get lost in Duke Farms. Or at least, click here to call at (908)-722-3700.