Community Corner
Hike: Duke Farms - for Young Professionals
Once the home of the eccentric heiress Doris Duke, Duke Farms has been converted into a 2700 acre center for environmental conservation and officially opened to the public in May of this year. Located in the heart of Somerset County, the property is one of the largest privately owned open spaces in the United States, and boasts 18 miles of multi-use trails. Our hike will focus on taking us over trails only accessible by foot to explore the woods, meadows, lakes and streams throughout the former estate. Afterward, the group may go out for a late lunch – always optional, but always fun.
Member Cost:
$5 for the first 10
$10 for the next 11 to 25
$20 at the door
Non-Member Cost:
$20 online and at the door.
Specs:
The hike is classified as moderate. The total length of the hike will be about 5-6 miles long and we will walk at a moderate pace.
The hike should take about 3 hours to allow for time to take in landmarks on the route.
As with all hikes you must be in good, athletic shape.
Tickets:
There are a limited number of Tickets for sale. Tickets are not mailed, but your name will be kept at the door. All sales are final.
Sweeper:
If the group size is larger than 10, we are going to look for a volunteer to act as a sweeper. Sweepers will walk at the end of the hike line and will make sure the group stays together.
Hike Leader:
Keira will be leading this hike.
What to bring:
Hiking boots and water (required).
Sunblock and bug spray recommended.
A light snack. We will take water and snack breaks at landmarks throughout the hike route.
Also, tissues, plastic bags for garbage, and similar items.
Inclement Weather:
Heavy precipitation will cancel this hike; drizzle will not. Please check your inbox for updates and the NJYP.org calendar. Tickets will be refunded.
Directions:
From Somerville Circle – take US 206 South for approximately 2.1 miles. Make a right hand turn at the light for Dukes Parkway West. (Note: there is a Dukes Parkway East – do not turn right at this light, this is no longer the main entrance to the property.) Continue 0.4 miles on Dukes Parkway West – once you cross over the pedestrian crosswalk, the entrance to the main parking area will be on the left. The group will meet outside the entrance of the Farm Barn Orientation Center.
From Princeton:
Take US 206 North for approximately 15.3 miles. At the traffic light for Dukes Parkway West, continue through the light and take the jug handle. Continue on Dukes Parkway West for 0.4 miles - once you cross over the pedestrian crosswalk, the entrance to the main parking area will be on the left. The group will meet outside the entrance of the Farm Barn Orientation Center.
