Where to Enjoy Snowshoeing, Pond Skating, and More Outdoor Winter Fun in NJ

If you're interested in winter sports in New Jersey beyond the realm of skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing, check out these family-friendly winter alternatives, which get you out of the house and into the great outdoors for out-of-the-ordinary fun in New Jersey's beautiful parks and reservations.

Find more fun seasonal recreation in our New Jersey Kids' Guide to Winter Fun.

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Enjoy pond ice skating or maybe a game of hockey at Shark River Park. Photo courtesy of the Monmouth County Park System

Pond Ice Skating in New Jersey

While these outdoor ice skating rinks in New Jersey come with plenty of perks and creature comforts, if you're tired of the crowds, why not hit the ice on a real, frozen pond? These local ponds are open to ice skating when the conditions are right, but remember: Safety comes first, so make sure conditions are appropriate and children are always supervised.

Tenafly Nature Center – Tenafly

Ice skating is allowed Pfister's Pond, visitors should call the TNC visitor center to learn if the ice is safe; ice skating is allowed only when the ice exceeds 4 inches. Some years there are no safe days. It usually takes several days of sustained below-freezing weather to build up the ice. Before venturing out, please call 201-568-6093 to confirm the conditions.

Parks Lake – Rockaway

Parks Lake is monitored for public ice skating when conditions permit. Check signage posted at the park to ensure conditions are acceptable.

Turkey Swamp Park – Freehold

When the conditions are right, and the ice is at least 5 inches thick, start looking for the "Skating Today" signs at Holmdel, Shark River, and Turkey Swamp Parks. It normally takes at a week to 10 days of subfreezing temperatures to produce safe skating conditions. For details and advisories on Turkey Swamp Park, call 732-462-7286.

Shark River Park – Wall

Open year-round for various activities, Shark River Park is home to a popular ice skating area. For additional details and to check conditions, contact the ranger station at 732-922-4080.

Holmdel Park – Holmdel

Pond skating at Holmdel Park takes place when the ice is more than 5 inches thick. Call the ranger station at 732-946-9562 to see whether skating is available.

Manasquan Reservoir – Howell

More than 1 million visitors travel to the Manasquan Reservoir annually, including for its pond skating in winter. Ice skating is permitted when the ice reaches 5 inches of thickness. For information and conditions, please call the visitor center at 732-919-0996.

Wilson Park and Veterans Memorial Park – Linden

Weather permitting, ice skating is offered at Wilson Park and Andrew Beno's Pond at Veterans Memorial Park in Linden. For information on both locations, please call the Linden Recreation Department at 908-474-8639.

RELATED: Best Snow Tubing near New Jersey for Families

A family cross-country skies at Thompson Park in New Jersey. Photo courtesy of the Monmouth County Park System

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing in New Jersey

When significant snow falls, there's a good chance any of these family-friendly New Jersey hiking trails are also good destinations for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

You need at least 6 inches of snow for these sports; with snowshoeing, 8-10 inches is better. Beware: these family-friendly activities are also an extreme workout, so plan shorter trips to start.

The NY/NJ Trail Conference allows you to search for routes based on your chosen activity and level of difficulty.

If you need gear, look for local rentals at Pelican Shops, Big Bear Gear, and REI.

Here are some family-friendly destinations for your snowshoeing or cross-country skiing adventure in New Jersey:

Thompson Park – Lincroft

When conditions are good, Thompson Park's Ski Hut, which is located in the park adjacent to the Three Barns Parking lot, offers ski and snowshoe equipment rentals for ages 2 and up, making snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with the family here very convenient.

Allamuchy Mountain State Park – Hackettstown

This state park has more than 14 miles of marked trails and is a great destination for outdoor recreation year-round. For trail info, call 908-852-3790.

Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area – Morris County

Offering several scenic overlooks, including views of the Manhattan skyline, Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area has approximately 30 miles of marked trails. Call the Morris County Park Commission at 973-334-3130 for current trail conditions.

Ramapo Mountain State Forest – Bergen County

Bordering the towns of Oakland, Pompton Lakes, Ringwood, Wanaque, and Passaic, this New Jersey state park offers trails up to 9 miles long. Rated mostly difficult, Ramapo Mountain’s easiest trail circles around Ramapo Lake.

Lamont Reserve – Bergen County

With 4 1/2 miles of trails adjacent to Palisades State Park, the Lamont Reserve trail system is described as "circles within circles."

Stokes State Forest – Sussex County

Along with ice fishing and snowmobiling, Stokes State Forest also offers many showshoeing trails in the winter. The crest of Sunrise Mountain is one of the most visited areas in the park, due to its breathtaking views. Call 973-948-3820 for trail conditions.

Jockey Hollow Park – Morristown

Morristown's Jockey Hollow includes a wealth of American history, along with a nature center and several trails. With its easiest trail running 1.3 miles and the most difficult covering 6 1/2 miles, this park has options for everyone.

Round Valley Recreation – Hunterdon County

Home to an expansive reservoir, this area attracts sports enthusiasts from all over the world year-round. For trail info, call 908-236-6355.

Wharton State Forest – Hammonton

Home to the historic Batsto Village, this area of the pine barrens looks particularly pretty in winter. If you are a more seasoned athlete, try the Atsion to Quaker Bridge Loop.

Rancocas Nature Center – Rancocas

For a fun little outing with young kids, this is a good spot with 3 miles of trails and some gentle hills.

Best Ice Fishing in New Jersey for Families

New Jersey residents can travel to one of several lakes to gain public access and go ice fishing. Fishable ice needs to be 3 inches or thicker, so make sure conditions are safe. To see recent temperatures or jump onto a message board for advice, visit Ice Shanty for local information.

• Budd Lake – Morris County
• Deer Park Pond at Allamuchy State Park – Warren County
• Lake Hopatcong – Morris & Sussex Counties
• Lake Wawayanda – Sussex County
• Shepherd Lake at Ringwood State Park – Passaic County
• Spruce Run Reservoir – Hunterdon County

Originally published January 2012