The Paulinskill Valley Trail is a 27-mile multi-use rail trail in northwestern New Jersey that runs along the scenic Paulins Kill river through Sussex and Warren counties.

This trail runs from Knowlton in Warren County to Sparta, NJ. It passes under the Paulinskill Viaduct, built in 1909, towering 115 feet over the kill. At one time, it was the world’s largest concrete structure.

Length: Approximately 27 miles one-way (making it the sixth-longest trail in New Jersey).

Surface: Hard-packed cinder, gravel, and dirt, with some narrow or grassy single-track sections.

Scenery: Passes through shaded forests, wetlands, farm fields, and past historic structures like a massive viaduct.

Wildlife: Excellent spot for birdwatching (over 100 species recorded) and viewing local wildlife like deer, bobcats, and bears.

Allowed Uses: Hiking, running, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing (no motorized vehicles).

Difficulty: Easy to moderate, featuring mostly level terrain with very gradual elevation changes. Hikers can turn around at any point.

Fun Pit Stop: Angry Erik Brewing can be accessed right from the Paulinskill Valley Trail.

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