New Jersey’s vast network of greenways just got even more impressive with the official grand opening of the Pompton Valley Rail Trail, a 5.1-mile multi-use path that now links Pequannock Township to Wayne along a beautifully repurposed former rail line. This long-awaited project, over 30 years in the making, was formally unveiled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that drew about 100 local leaders, residents, and community partners, all of whom played a role in turning vision into reality.
The trail, which runs from River Drive in Pequannock to Mountain View Boulevard in Wayne, near NJ Transit’s Mountain View Station, offers more than just a scenic route — it’s a new way of life for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a cyclist, a runner, a commuter heading to the train station, or someone simply looking for a peaceful place to stroll, this 10-foot-wide, fully accessible path provides a safe, beautiful option to get outdoors.
🚴 Connecting Communities, Reducing Traffic
This trail is about more than recreation; it’s about connection. As Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen noted, it gives residents a sustainable and traffic-reducing way to reach transit hubs. With multiple neighborhood entry points and safety-conscious design — including enhanced crosswalks, clear signage, and tactile surfaces for visually impaired users — the trail is truly built for everyone.
🌉 A Legacy of Vision and Collaboration
What began as an ambitious idea decades ago is now a shining example of inter-county cooperation and forward-thinking infrastructure. Formerly known as the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway Bicycle and Pedestrian Shared Use Path, the trail was spearheaded by the Morris County Department of Public Works and made possible through a $32 million federal grant managed by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA).
“It’s more than a path,” said Commissioner Stephen Shaw, who also serves on the NJTPA board. “It’s part of a larger vision for a regional trail network — one that could one day stretch from the Delaware River in Phillipsburg to the Hudson River in Jersey City, through the heart of Morris County.”
🏞️ A Gem in the County’s Crown
With its opening, the Pompton Valley Rail Trail becomes the longest bike and pedestrian trail overseen by the Morris County Park Commission, adding a significant 5.1 miles to the county’s already extensive network of over 260 miles of trails. It also contributes 57 acres of new parkland, pushing Morris County’s park system to more than 20,600 acres — the largest in the state.
“This is almost twice the length of the Traction Line Trail in Morristown,” said Commissioner Douglas Cabana, “and we expect it to become just as beloved by residents and families.”
🌟 Looking Ahead: A New Outdoor Destination
Estimates from Park Commission Executive Director Dave Helmer suggest the trail could draw as many as 150,000 to 200,000 visitors in its first year alone — a number that puts it in the running to become one of the busiest trails in New Jersey, second only to the Loantaka Brook Reservation.
The opening event also recognized many behind-the-scenes contributors, from engineers and contractors to first responders and local government leaders, all of whom played critical roles in delivering this community asset. As a tribute, commemorative railroad spikes engraved with “Pompton Valley Rail Trail, Dedicated May 29, 2025” were handed out — a meaningful nod to the trail’s history and its promising future.
🔗 Ready to experience the newest jewel in New Jersey’s trail network? Lace up your sneakers, hop on your bike, or just come for a leisurely walk and discover how the Pompton Valley Rail Trail is transforming both recreation and transportation in the region.
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Whether you’re planning your next family outing or just want a serene place to recharge, the Pompton Valley Rail Trail is a must-visit addition to New Jersey’s outdoor landscape. Stay tuned for even more community updates, hidden gems, and travel inspiration from Explore New Jersey!