Trail Overview

This is a great trail through the New Jersey Pine Barrens that's easy to get to and easy to drive, taking you through Bass River State Forest and Wharton State Forest. You can either start off of Route 539 or 679. The trail is all dirt with some sandy sections where 4WD may be needed. The Forestry Department has cleared out about 12 feet on both sides through most of this trail, making the views and visibility very good. Towards the 679 side of the trail, it is a bit narrower but still plenty clear for regular-sized trucks and SUVs. The trail is well-maintained and lightly trafficked, making it a nice peaceful "away from it all" experience.

Photos of Forge Road to Wharton State Forest

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Difficulty

This trail is mostly dirt but there are some sandy areas where 4WD may be needed. There is only one potential small puddle, so flooding shouldn't be a real worry unless there's been a storm or days of rain.

Technical Rating

Julia K

Oct 26, 2025

Open

Very easy trail. From the 539 side it’s about 2 cars wide but once you get towards the end it becomes much tighter. Expect some light scratches if you have a wider vehicle towards the end. Some super fun whoops towards the end as well.

Ron Karper

Oct 26, 2025

Open

Mark S

Jul 04, 2025

Open

Great, fun, easy trail. You get a mixed bag, some fun whoops, sugar sand, woods, open fire cut roads, a few small puddles and a neat Baja pit near the end (or beginning depending on which end you start). We went down and back. We will investigate some of the other cross roads the next time.

Vladimir Grebinsky

Mar 08, 2025

Open

Easy trail, some patches of sand.

Emily Reckenbeil

Feb 28, 2025

Open

* I didn’t complete the entire trail - the main trail was in normal condition and was a super easy drive. - went on a few of the side trails which were more difficult—muddy, rougher terrain, narrow trails.

Kyle Minissale

Feb 12, 2025

Open

Trail is very open for roughly 80% of the trip. The majority of the trail appears to be recently opened up and cut rather wide. Very little water even after snow and rain. Smooth ride. The final portion of the trail is a little narrow for full size trucks but fine for anything else. Enjoy with confidence!

DAVID BARKER

Nov 23, 2024

Open

Generally good conditions. Loose sand was the only “obstacle”. Was able to travel with 2WD. Quiet except for a few dual-sport motorcycles.

CJ Smith

Jun 20, 2024

Open

Around the intersection of Shamong Rd headed west from CR539 to CR679 there was police tape blocking the trail. Not sure what the obstruction was but could not go further and had to turn back. Other than that, trail in good condition, used 4WD occasionally for sand but no problems otherwise.