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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
Easy

The Plunge

Hackettstown, New Jersey · Morris County · JORBA

The Plunge is a easy hiking trail near Hackettstown in Morris County, New Jersey.. Managed by JORBA. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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40.87825, -74.79771
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at The Plunge

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High78°F
Avg Low61°F
Peak Rain Chance72%
Humidity79%
UV (avg)7
Air Quality98 · Moderate
Today
☁️
Overcast
79°/56°
💧 1%🌬 6mph
5:50 AM8:21 PM
Mon
🌧
Heavy Rain
83°/66°
💧 10%🌬 9mph
5:51 AM8:20 PM
Tue
Thunderstorm
77°/65°
💧 56%🌬 10mph
5:51 AM8:19 PM
Wed
🌧
Rain Showers
78°/60°
💧 72%🌬 12mph
5:52 AM8:18 PM
Thu
🌦
Drizzle
74°/58°
💧 26%🌬 8mph
5:53 AM8:17 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About The Plunge

The Plunge is a easy hiking trail near Hackettstown in Morris County, New Jersey.. Managed by JORBA. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.
  • Rain jacket / shell
    72% chance of precipitation in the forecast.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 7)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in New Jersey

Trail conditions in New Jersey change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is The Plunge?

The Plunge is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on The Plunge?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail (designated bike route).

Are horses allowed on The Plunge?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted.

When is the best time to hike The Plunge?

New Jersey has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages The Plunge?

The Plunge is managed by JORBA. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.