Stepping into Forever Forest in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey, feels like entering a realm where nature holds its ground firmly—untamed but welcoming. This local favorite spans roughly 4.5 miles of interconnected trails that wind through dense pine stands and open meadows. The elevation change is gentle, peaking at about 150 feet, making it approachable for casual hikers yet engaging enough for those seeking steady movement through a living, breathing ecosystem.

The trail surface varies from compact dirt to patches of loose sand, reflecting the forest’s proximity to coastal plains. Along the way, tall pines and oaks sway with purpose, as if testing the resolve of each visitor. The air carries a crisp scent of pine resin mixed with the earthiness of damp leaves—a sensory constant that reminds you the forest is keenly alive.

For eager adventurers aiming for a balanced challenge, timing your trek in the morning can reward you with soft sunlight filtering through the canopy, the woods quietly stirring with birds and small wildlife daring you to enter their domain. Be prepared with sturdy footwear—trail runners or light hiking boots with good grip handle the shifting terrain best. Hydration is key; while the forest’s shaded canopy offers frequent reprieves from the sun, the effort will have you reaching for water sooner than expected.

Beyond hiking, the forest invites cyclists to test the multi-use paths and bird watchers to pause at hidden, quiet corners where warblers and woodpeckers announce their presence. Winter hikes reveal stark outlines and a crisp silence that dares visitors to walk deliberately, noticing every crunch of brittle leaves.

Parking is available at the main entrance off White Horse Pike, with trail maps posted clearly. Planning for two to three hours allows a leisurely pace with plenty of stops to take in the sights and sounds. If temperatures climb, start early or late to avoid midday warmth.

Forever Forest commands respect—not as a conquest, but as an encounter with a natural world fiercely itself. It’s a place to tune your senses, steady your pace, and engage fully with each footfall and breath. Whether it's your first visit or the tenth, the forest challenges you to stay alert, move confidently, and savor the straightforward thrill of outdoor exploration.