If you want a New Jersey hike that feels like you went somewhere, but still fits into a busy day, Tillman Ravine Trail is a solid pick.
This is a fairly easy, mostly out-and-back hike (about 1.8 miles) in the Tillman Ravine Natural Area within Stokes State Forest in Walpack Township, NJ.
You’ll walk through a ravine carved by Tillman Brook, pass small waterfalls, and cross a few little bridges. It’s short, but it doesn’t feel boring.
The trail also has a fork early on, and choosing the right direction makes the whole hike better.
Trail overview
Tillman Ravine Trail is an easy-to-moderate stroll through a shaded ravine with water features, footbridges, and plenty of spots to stop for photos.
Stokes has longer and more challenging hikes, but this one packs a lot into a short trip that most people can complete.
Upper vs lower route
Early on, the trail splits into an upper and lower route. I took the lower route first, but I think the better plan is:
The lower route has great brook views, but on the way out you’ll be facing the wrong direction for the best photos.
Try to resist stopping every 20 seconds to turn around for a picture. You’ll be coming back the same way, and photos of the water flowing toward you usually look nicer.
What to expect on the trail
The route is fairly flat and easy. The only somewhat difficult spot I ran into was a little rock cutout where I had to use my hands to get up, and then down again on the way back.
How to hike it without overthinking it
This is the simple flow that keeps it enjoyable and keeps you moving.
- Start at the parking lot and follow signs for the upper route to begin.
- Stay on the upper route until the paths reconnect.
- Continue toward the tea cup when the trail splits toward the cemetery or the tea cup.
- Turn around when the trail ends at the road.
- Take the lower route back along Tillman Brook and grab most of your photos on the return.
Trail markers and the early split
The trail is fairly easy to follow and well marked. Start off at the parking lot and follow the signs for the upper route.
Both routes will reconnect. The trail will then split off toward the cemetery or the tea cup. Continue toward the tea cup.
Eventually the trail ends at a road. That’s your turnaround point. On the way back, follow the lower route along Tillman Brook.
Photo highlights from the hike
Since the timeline of pictures doesn’t match up perfectly with the route I think you should take, here are the rest of the photos from my Tillman Ravine hike.
Summary and key takeaways
- Tillman Ravine Trail is a short, scenic 1.8 mile hike in Stokes State Forest.
- Upper route out, lower route back is the best way to experience the brook views.
- Save most photos for the return so the water flows toward you in shots.
- Expect mostly easy terrain with one small rock section that may require hands.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Tillman Ravine Trail take?
About an hour at a relaxed pace, without trail running.
Is Tillman Ravine Trail good for beginners?
Yes. It’s mostly flat and easy to follow, with one small rocky section that’s more “use your hands for balance” than truly difficult.
Which route should I take first, upper or lower?
Upper on the way out and lower on the way back is the best combo for views and photos.
Where do you turn around on the trail?
The trail ends at a road. That’s the natural turnaround point before heading back the same way.
Is there anything else nearby worth seeing after the hike?
Yes. After finishing the Tillman Ravine hike you can drive a few minutes to nearby Buttermilk Falls (tallest falls in NJ). From the parking area you can walk up the staircase to an observation deck near the Appalachian Trail for a nice view of the falls.
Comments