The Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Trails invite you to step into a world where coastal marshes stretch wide and bird calls punctuate the quiet air. Spanning multiple miles of dirt paths laid over marshy flats and pine forest edges, these backcountry routes offer both the refuge of solitude and the thrill of discovery. Here, tidal waters dare the walking trails, their rhythmic pushes reminding you that nature is fiercely itself. Expect about 5 to 7 miles of easy-to-moderate terrain, mostly flat with occasional boardwalks that rise just enough to give sweeping views over salt marsh grasses swaying like an ocean in slow motion.

Beginning your hike early means greeting quiet herons, osprey hovering steadily above the bay, and flocks of sandpipers dipping in and out of muddy estuaries. The trails are practical enough—packed dirt and wooden planks keep footing reliable but prepare for occasional mud when waters encroach after heavy rains or high tides. Alongside the avian activity, the pine trees breathe with a steady, cool scent, accompanied by the distant churn of nearby creeks pushing toward the bay.

Pack water and waterproof footwear; the wetlands have their moods, shifting from firm to soggy with the tide’s whims. Bring binoculars and a light jacket, as breezes off the water can nip when the sun lowers. The best time to visit is from late spring through early fall, when migrating birds and summer residents bustle with energy. If timed right, dawn’s first light casts golden streaks across the marsh, spotlighting nests and feeding flocks alike.

Whether you’re a beginner bird watcher or an aficionado, the Forsythe Trails offer access to some of New Jersey's richest coastal bird habitats. Approach the hike with an openness to engage with the ecosystem around you—the marshes reveal themselves carefully but generously. Respect the wildlife’s space and the dynamic nature of the backcountry landscape; here, adventure is a measured dance between observer and environment.