Mt Tammany Red Dot Trail — Attraction in Hardwick Township

Short, yet satisfying hike with some amazing views!

To beat the heat and the crowds, we chose a Saturday mid-morning slot. Starting our journey counterclockwise, we began the ascent towards Mount Tammany, the highest point on the trail.

Within about 20 minutes, we reached the first viewpoint, which offered a breathtaking panorama of Arrow Island and Mount Minsi across the Delaware River. Continuing on the steepest part of the trail, we leisurely made our way to the top of Mount Tammany over the course of about an hour and a half, taking it slow to accommodate our four-legged companion.

From the summit, we enjoyed an impressive view of the Delaware River, including a bend, although we had to descend slightly to see it, as trees obstructed the upper vantage point. This area is quite popular, with many visitors enjoying snacks or lunch.

The trail itself is rocky and occasionally steep, but I did not find it dangerous or particularly challenging. I would class this as an easy trail suited for anyone's' physical ability. The trail is well-marked, making it virtually impossible to get lost. Most of the hike goes through forest, providing ample shade on a hot day like the one we experienced.

Though the trail is relatively short, spanning only 3.6 miles (5.9 kilometers), our small dog's pace, especially on the rocky terrain, extended our hike to nearly 4 hours. I believe 2 hours would be the time to accomplish this trail under normal circumstances.

The best part of the whole experience and most rewarding one was the time we spent by the Dunnfield Creek - a perfect and serene place to take shoes off and dip feet in cold waters.

It's important to note that there are no amenities along the trail, including trash bins, restrooms, or refreshment stands, so plan accordingly. Also, I recommend starting as early as possible due to the busy parking situation, as spaces tend to fill up quickly.

Visited on a Saturday,...

First Trek—Unforgettable Views & Valuable Lessons

Just completed my first trek—and it was absolutely unforgettable. The mountain views were breathtaking, and honestly, words can’t fully capture the beauty I witnessed.

At the end of the Blue Trail, there’s a serene stream and a small waterfall that adds a refreshing touch to the journey. I saw a few people enjoying the water, so if you're a water lover, consider bringing an extra set of clothes.

The trail features steep elevation and rocky terrain. For first-time trekkers, I strongly recommend wearing hiking boots (not just trail shoes or walking shoes) and using two trekking poles for added support and stability.

If you're not used to regular cardio—at least brisk walking—this trek can be physically demanding. If you do go, make sure to take breaks at regular intervals. Safety is crucial: emergency services are not easily accessible in remote areas. Also, asthma patients should avoid this trail due to the elevation and terrain.

This is a sensitive ecological zone, so please stay on the marked trail. And if you're hiking with friends, avoid teasing or risky behavior, this is not the place for pranks or pushing. Respect the environment and each other.

I did see kids on the trail, but if you're bringing children, be extra cautious and keep them close at all times.

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be a challenge. If you arrive early, you’ll likely find a spot, but as the day goes on, it gets much harder. The trail is located off Route 80 West. After exiting the highway, you’ll first come across Parking Lot 1, which has limited spots. Parking Lot 2 is just ahead and offers more space. There’s a connecting road between the two lots, so you don’t need to re-enter the highway to switch between them.

This trek was a mix of beauty, challenge, and reflection. If you're planning to go, go prepared—and go with...

Best hike in NJ!! Hike is tiring, but 100% worth the effort. Suggested route is defenitely the Red dot to the top and Blue dot to get back to the bottom. Key things to note: Parking - tough to find. I read about it and we went early and reached by 8. Two sides of red dot parking was almost full. Only few spots were left. When we came back we saw people formed a middle lane of parking as well Hiking hardness level - hiking shoes is a must. Hike is tiring, and starts getting rocky almost immediately. Some areas are hectic. Return through blue is easy, but still is rocky and not an easy descent Flowers, Insects, birds - you will get to see a lot of small flowers, insects and birds on the way. Lot of kites for sure. We saw a snake as well Scenic spots - there are 3 key spots. You will reach the first one in about 20 min from start. Great view of Delaware water gap. 2nd is the scenic overlook at the top of the hike. That's amazing. People sit and relax there. 3rd is in the descent in the blue dot trail, there is a nice creek and a small waterfall. Both are beautiful Route - we started in red dot and returned in blue dot. Red dot is hard hike up. Blue dot is relatively easy descent down. You will reach back at the blue dot parking, and needs to walk back to the red dot parking by road, which is 10 min walk Kids - tough for the kids. My kids were able to make it. They will get excited for sure at the waterfall and the creek. That is such a refreshing place. What to carry - try to pack your bag light. But make sure you add some snacks which you can enjoy at the top of the hike Time spent-hike up can be completed in an hour and half with sight seeing, and same for hike down. So 3 hours. You can spent 6 hours as well going slow looking at every detail as...