Stokes State Forest
Hike from lakes and shaded valleys toward the broad views of Sunrise Mountain in New Jersey’s northwest.
Artwork inspired by Asher B. Durand
Stokes protects a large piece of the Kittatinny landscape, with lakes, forest roads, Appalachian Trail sections, and the overlook at Sunrise Mountain. These are not all one walk. A lake picnic, a rocky ridge hike, and a backcountry overnight each require different preparation. Pick a named destination before leaving the entrance office so the forest’s scale remains manageable.
The high ground changes weather quickly, while lower paths may stay damp after rain. The forest is especially useful for seeing how a single ridge organizes views across the Delaware Valley. Campgrounds and cabins require separate booking; a day-use visitor can enjoy a short route without treating an overnight facility as an attraction.
- Ridge
- Kittatinny
- Overlook
- Sunrise Mountain
- Trail
- Appalachian Trail
Quick guide
- Choose a zone
- Decide between lake, ridge, or Appalachian Trail before driving.
- Check the weather
- Sunrise Mountain is more exposed than sheltered lake paths.
Know before you go
- Use a trail map
- Forest destinations have different parking.
- Watch footing
- Rock and wet leaves slow ridge travel.
- Notice elevation
- Vegetation changes from valley to crest.
- Book camping
- Day access does not secure an overnight spot.
Good to know
The map link points to the forest office, not the Sunrise Mountain overlook. Choose the exact parking point for your planned walk and check any road or trail closure.
Notice these
- Sunrise Mountain
- Stony Lake
- Wooded ridges