On a steamy Sunday afternoon, with the air thick and humming, I dusted off my bike helmet and hit the trail — not as a seasoned cyclist, but as a newly inspired Rail Trail Rookie. It’s been a while since I rode with intention, and this felt like the perfect re-entry: breezes on my cheeks, butterflies fluttering by and two cheerful bells on my brand-new Bianchi celeste turquoise-colored bike (a birthday gift from my sons, complete with a charming front basket).
I set off on the Pompton Valley Rail Trail, a smooth and welcoming path that stretches from Pompton Plains to the Mountainview section of Wayne, NJ — perfect for riders (and wanderers) of all levels.
Who’s On the Trail
Absolutely everyone.
- Families with strollers
- Couples hand in hand
- Fast-pedaling pros and easy cruisers
- Dogs sniffing with joy
- And my personal favorite: a man in a motorized wheelchair, confidently zipping by and smiling at everyone — a true trail icon.
What You’ll See Along the Way
The scenery shifts from wooded shade to open meadows, with little surprises tucked in if you’re paying attention:
- A peaceful horse farm, with swishing tails and gentle eyes
- Wildlife including deer, chipmunks, bunnies, and butterflies
- A line of painted stones with kind and colorful messages left by fellow travelers
- A moving prayer wall just off the trail, where you can tie a colored ribbon that corresponds with your prayer request — red for love, yellow for joy, blue for peace -an invitation from the charming Our Savior Lutheran Church, which backs up to the trail and quietly reminds you that community surrounds you on every stretch of the path
Tasty Trail Treats
Two spots just off the trail make refueling deliciously easy:
Chano’s Latin Kitchen – Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this place is a flavor-packed gem. I especially love their rice bowls — fresh, hearty, and full of zest.
Bardi’s Bar & Restaurant – Just down the road, Bardi’s serves up comfort food with a side of community. Their Dino’s Shrimp Pizza is a must-try — crispy, saucy, garlicky goodness.
Rail Trails for Fellow Rail Trail Rookies
Once your wheels are spinning and you’re craving more trails, here are a few beginner-friendly gems to explore:
- Columbia Trail (High Bridge to Ken Lockwood Gorge) – Scenic river views and gentle terrain
- Loantaka Brook Reservation (Morristown) – Woodsy, peaceful, and great for nature lovers
- Saddle River County Park Trail (Bergen County) – Meandering paved paths with bridges and parks along the way
On Your Way Home…
Just a quick hop up Route 23 North, you'll find Curly’s Ice Cream — a beloved local landmark dishing out scoops for over 60 years. From soft serve to sundaes, it’s the perfect way to cap off your ride with a little sweetness and nostalgia.
Final Thought
The Pompton Valley Rail Trail is more than a path — it’s a gentle welcome back to biking, to nature and to yourself. Whether you’re here for the scenery, the shrimp pizza or the quiet joy of the ride, you’ll leave feeling a little more alive.
So ring your bells, chase the butterflies, and come ride. The trail is waiting.
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