The Water Company Trails: An Adventure for the Skilled in Lambertville, NJ

Quick Facts

• Distance: 12 mi (if ridden in both directions)
• Level: Difficult
• Route Type: Network
• City: Lambertville
• State: New Jersey

Getting There

Nestled about 2 miles down Lambertville-Hopewell road, after passing Rock Road West and turning into Brunswick Avenue, this set of trails starts near a sizable red barn that doubles as your parking space.

Terrain and Trail System

Trail Complexity

• Red Trail: Least technical, includes a flow section.
• Yellow Trail: Most technical, includes rollers, step-ups, and punchy climbs.
• Blue, Orange Trails: Intermediate challenges with plenty of rock gardens and root sections.

Experienced Rider Insights

Prepare for a technical journey. This isn't your run-of-the-mill casual biking trail; it’s a genuine challenge even for advanced riders. Your skills will be put to the test from the get-go with the blue trail that opens up the Water Company system. Massive rock sections coupled with complicated root gardens mean there's no room for mistakes.This is not a place to bring your novice friends or family members, as the trails, especially the yellow, are unforgiving. Watch out for pedal strike signs on rocks; your pedals and cranks will take a beating.Navigation won't be a major issue as the trails are well-marked. Still, be wary of thorn bushes, rotten branches, and obstacles that could catch your front wheel off-guard. It's also advisable to carry a spare tube; this trail does not forgive or forget.

Connectivity and Alternatives

If you find that the Water Company trails are too taxing, riders have the option of linking up to the Baldplate Mountain Trails via the Greenway trail for a more extensive 20-mile ride. A second alternative is the pedestrian-only trail leading to Pleasant Valley Road, well-maintained and characterized by downhill terrain and good flow. But beware, even though the trail shows signs of mountain bike use, it’s officially a walking path.

Final Recommendations

While the Water Company Trails may not be everyone's cup of tea, they do embody the rugged spirit of adventure mountain biking is known for. Flow is sporadic, and technical challenges abound. For those who consider mountain biking a full-contact sport, these trails will make you feel alive, or at least remind you that you're made of flesh and blood, thanks to the sticker bush cuts you'll likely sustain. Consider it a badge of honor.