A glacial lake at the top of a mountain in New Jersey? Yes!
Sunfish Pond in Worthington State Forest is considered one of the Natural Wonders of New Jersey. And the Garvey Springs/Douglas Trail loop to Sunfish Pond is challenging but fun. This 4.1-mile hike is considered hard, thanks to the steep grade at the start and end of the loop, plus the rocky terrain by the lake.
However, this might be one of the best hikes in New Jersey. Along the hike, you’ll get to experience different types of plant life, including ferns, wildflowers, and rhododendrons, to name a few. Plus, the hike starts with a waterfall!
If this sounds like a trail you would enjoy, the guide below has everything you need to know. So, let’s start planning your next adventure.
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Some Fun Information About Sunfish Pond
Sunfish Pond is the southernmost glacial lake on the Appalachian Trail. At around 1300 feet above sea level, this 44-acre pond has been named a National Natural Landmark and is one of the Natural Wonders of New Jersey.
The lake has naturally acidic water where only certain types of fish can live. The pond was formed during the end of the last ice age, about 18,000 years ago, when a glacier carved out the spring-fed lake.
Prepare for Your Hike to Sunfish Pond in New Jersey
Parking
There is a small lot at the Douglas Parking Lot that holds about 20 cars. As you drive past that lot, additional parking can be found closer to the Delaware River.
Amenities
There is a restroom at the Douglas Parking lot and camping area with vault toilets and running water sinks. The bathrooms were clean and well-stocked. Outside of the restroom building is a water fountain.
Pets
Leashed dogs are allowed on the trails at Worthington State Forest.
Dangerous Wildlife
Worthington State Forest is home to many various species of snakes, including copperheads and timber rattlesnakes. Black bears also live within the forest. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for the wildlife.
No Swimming at Sunfish Pond
There are several “no swimming” signs posted around Sunfish Pond.
Be a Responsible Visitor
As you visit this park, remember to respect nature. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
The more popular these destinations become, the more we need to be diligent about keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Hiking the Garvey Springs/Douglas Trail Loop to Sunfish Pond
- Trail Location: Across the street from the Douglas Parking lot on Old Mine Road
- Trail Length: 4.4 miles with options to add on (see below)
- Trail Difficulty: Hard due to steep grade and very rocky trail in sections
- Elevation Gain: 1100 feet
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Trailhead
After researching the trail, we opted to follow the loop clockwise, taking the Garvey Springs Trail up the mountain since it is the steepest one of the two trails, and we preferred to go up rather than go down.
The Garvey Springs Trailhead is to the left of the drainage from Sunfish Pond. When we visited, the trail started off very narrow and overgrown with Japanese stilt grass, but it widened quickly. The trail is also steep from the get-go, giving you a good idea of what to expect over the next mile.
Laurel Falls
The Worthington State Forest map and trail guide doesn’t mention Laurel Falls in the Garvey Springs section, which is odd. It’s actually easier to see the waterfall from Garvey Springs versus Douglas. So, take the time to enjoy its beauty before you trek up the mountain.
Garvey Springs Trail
The Garvey Springs Trail is very steep over much of the 1.2 miles to the Appalachian Trail. You’ll experience grades up to 25% along the trail, with very few breaks. However, the short section where the Garvey Springs and Rockcores Trail meet up has little elevation gain and provides a nice reprieve from the climb.
The trail starts out with a nice mix of rocks and dirt but becomes very rocky as you approach the Appalachian Trail.
The kids called this the “Toad Trail” since we saw several tiny toads along the way. Most of them had bodies no longer than an inch. We also nicknamed it “Fern Gully,” thanks to the numerous ferns adding beauty to the trail.
Appalachian Trail By Sunfish Pond
Turn right (south) onto the Appalachian Trail from Garvey Springs Trails. From here, it’s a short distance to the northeast point of Sunfish Pond. The trail follows the northern side of Sunfish Pond, with several areas to access water views. We stopped several times, as each view offered a different perspective.
There is even a log bench at the southwest tip of the pond. The water is much more shallow here, so we could see some tadpoles.
The kids nicknamed this section of the trail the “Hedge Trail” since several rhododendrons and other bushes looked like manicured garden hedges along the trail.
Good to Know: There is a large opening just past the run off of Sunfish Pond. Here, there were several paths leading no where. It can be easy to miss, but the Appalachian Trail follows close to the water, right near the trees with the “no camping” signs.
Douglas Trail
The Douglas Trail starts at the backpacker campsite, an open area next to the Appalachian Trail. It is clearly marked with a sign and blue blazes. Although the Douglas Trail is not as steep as the Garvey Springs Trail, it is still steep in sections with loose rocks, so use caution. Hiking poles would be beneficial on this trail.
The trail is clearly marked. At one point, you’ll see a sign pointing towards the Park Offices. Don’t follow that! Keep going and look for the blue blazes. The trail ends close to Laurel Falls, but, as noted above, the view isn’t as good as it was on the Garvey Spring Trail.
Good to Know: There is a latrine available at the backpacker campsite. We did not use it, so we can’t report on its conditions.
Fun Additions to the Sunfish Pond Loop
Scenic Overlook of Delaware River
If you’re up for a longer hike, you can hike to the scenic overlook of the Delaware River and the Delaware Water Gap on the Appalachian Trail. Instead of heading right (south) on the Appalachian Trail from Garvey Springs, make a left (head north). Follow the trail for about 9/10 mile until you reach the small overlook on your left. You can see a small corner of the river and the mountain in the distance.
This will add about 1.8 miles to your total hike. While it was a pretty view, I’m not sure it was entirely worth the effort. But if you want a longer hike, then it’s a fun stop.
Sunfish Pond Overlook
Before you follow the Appalachian Trail around Sunfish Pond, take the Buckwood Trail (teal) about 1/10 mile to a beautiful overlook of the pond. There is a large opening with rocks you can sit on. It’s a perfect spot for lunch and a snack break.
Other Hikes Near the Sunfish Pond Loop
Worthington State Forest has some gorgeous and popular hiking trails. One of the most popular is the Mt Tammany Red Dot trail. This trail gives you a few stunning overlooks of the Delaware Water Gap.
You can also combine the other trails within the forest to make your own loop. We met several hikers who started at the Park Office and took Rockcores Trail to either Douglas or Garvey Springs versus starting at the Douglas Parking lot.
Sunfish Pond in Worthington State Forest Hike Wrap-Up
This was a demanding yet fun hike in Worthington State Forest. The views of Sunfish Pond, the pretty waterfall at the start of the hike, and all of the various plants and foliage throughout the hike make this loop one of our favorite hikes in New Jersey. If you’re up for a longer and more challenging trail, add this one to your list!
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