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The Monmouth Heritage Trail

HENRY HUDSON TRAIL -
SOUTHERN EXTENSION

 
The Monmouth Heritage Trail runs for twelve miles.  It begins at the Matawan train station and continues roughly parallel to Route 79 through Matawan Borough, Aberdeen, Marlboro and Freehold Townships before ending in Freehold Borough at the old Central Railroad of New Jersey train station.  The trail will pass through and have access to the Big Brook Park in Marlboro Township.
 
The rail line began in the 1860s as the Monmouth County Agricultural Railroad. The railroad carried produce, manufactured goods and "marl" fertilizer to the rail pier in Keyport.  All service ceased in the 1950s.  The property is owned by N.J. Transit and is under lease to the Monmouth County Park System.

Monmouth Heritage Trail, Inc. is a non-profit group whose purpose is to "promote the preservation, protection and balanced use of the Henry Hudson Trail as a recreational trail for the benefit of the public." The group's mission is to gain the support of local municipalities, environmental, civic and community groups, business and homeowners.  The mission also includes urging acquisition of the rail corridor by the County through purchase, "rail banking", or long-term recreational easement.  We support dedicated funds for its development and maintenance as a rail-trail for non-motorized use by the public.
 
If you are interested in supporting the M.H.T./H.H.T.-S.E. efforts, please contact the Monmouth Heritage Trail at P.O. Box 170, Wickatunk, N.J. 07765.
 
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