DIRECTIONS: From the NJ Turnpike, take exit 7 and follow Route 206 south to Route 38 east, to second traffic light, then turn onto Magnolia Road (Route 644). Follow Magnolia Road until you come to the Four-Mile Circle. From the circle take Route 72 east, at mile marker 1 make a left. There is a forest entrance sign on your left as you turn in. Take the first right and the office is on the left. [source: NJ DEP]create
SUMMARY: Formerly known as Lebanon State Forest, visitors are greeted by the fresh scent of pines. Today's forested acres are a strong contrast to the barren, cleared land that existed in the 1800s. The Lebanon Glass Works was established in 1851 and was successful until 1867, when it shut down after depleting the supply of wood necessary for the furnace to operate [source: NJ DEP]create
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Brendan T Byrne State Forest, Nj
Feb 5, 2012
After a bitter-sweet experience the last time I attempted this, armed with more research, a trail map and a half completed GPS track, I set out to complete this hike. As an added precaution, I decided to do the loop in the opposite direction...I knew that I could find my way from Mt Misery using my track from my previous attempt.
Leaving the parking lot at Pakim Pond just after sunrise under an overcast sky, the weather was proving to be perfect for this hike. I followed the trail back towards the Park Office until I reached the turn towards Mt Misery. The trail makes a beeline towards Mt Misery. Hiking the trail in the reverse to how I had before meant I was soon out into the cranberry bogs. This section of the trail is much different than the other end; the trail is well above the water level, but the rest of the area is very wet. There are ongoing repairs on the trail as can be seen in my photo. I also spotted the first robins I've seen this year.
The trail soon tracks back into the woods and meanders a bit before turning again towards Mt Misery and I was soon back to a familiar place. From Mt Misery, I followed the trail as it looped back on its return to Pakim Pond. Having traveled this portion of the trail, my comfort level returned...a little trepidation remained even though I had probably over-prepared for this hike...and I relaxed into a trail eating pace. Before long I realized I had almost completed the trail, much to my delight and disappointment.