WARETOWN – A section of the Barnegat Branch Trail will be highlighted June 1 to celebrate National Trails Day.
The public can participate in numerous activities along the trail from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders is hosting this free event.
“This will be a day where people can learn more about our trail. They can try out the exercise equipment, they can view the interpretive display at the Country Lane Trailhead, participate in nature walks and just enjoy all that the outdoors have to offer along the trail,” Ocean County Freeholder Director Virginia E. Haines, who is the Chairwoman of Ocean County’s Department of Parks and Recreation, said.
An Ocean County Park Department Naturalist will walk the trail with visitors. Guests can also see a bike rodeo and learn bicycle safety tips from the Ocean County Security Department.
Members of the Ocean Township (Waretown) Police, First Aid Squad, and other township agencies will be available to meet and greet.
Visitors will also see a K-9 demonstration from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. Parents will be able to get child IDs. A personal trainer will be at the outdoor exercise equipment by Railroad Avenue to demonstrate the equipment.
“We are having something for everyone,” Haines said. “We especially want to introduce our children to the trail. This is a great leisure activity and a learning experience.”
The Barnegat Branch trail will stretch from Barnegat Township to Toms River Township. The 16-mile trail follows the existing right-of-way of the former Barnegat Branch Division of the Central Railroad of New Jersey.
“The Barnegat Branch Trail is a great addition to the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. It not only gives residents a route to travel by bike or walking, but also allows access to many of our County Parks that are nearby,” Haines said. “I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the nice weather and see the trail for themselves during the National Trails Day event.”
