Hunterdon County · Califon Borough
Visiting Califon
A small-town Hunterdon destination best explored on foot or bicycle, with a historic Main Street, river scenery, Columbia Trail access and a preserved railroad story.
Califon is especially well suited to a half-day or full-day outing built around the trail, downtown, river, food stops and nearby outdoor destinations.
What to See & Do
Columbia Trail
Walk, run or bike the crushed-stone rail trail through Califon. The Hunterdon County segment connects High Bridge with the Morris County line and follows the South Branch Raritan landscape.
Historic Califon Train Station
The stone station sits next to the trail and preserves the borough’s railroad history. It is associated with the Califon Historical Society and local museum activities.
Main Street & Historic District
Walk the compact downtown to see historic buildings, local businesses and the borough’s traditional village streetscape.
Califon Island Park
Local recreation area with playground, fields, basketball, pavilion, pond, parking and access to the river environment.
South Branch Raritan River
Enjoy river views and the outdoor character that gives Califon much of its identity. Anglers should check current New Jersey fishing regulations before heading out.
Ken Lockwood Gorge · Nearby
The gorge is outside Califon Borough but close enough to pair with a Califon visit for hiking, fishing and scenic river exploration.
A Califon Day-Trip Plan
Morning · Trail & Station
Start at the Columbia Trail and historic station, then walk or ride a comfortable out-and-back segment.
Midday · Main Street
Return to the village for bakery, deli or café options and a short walk through the historic district.
Afternoon · Park & River
Spend time at Island Park or along the river, or continue the outdoor day toward nearby Ken Lockwood Gorge.
Evening · Local Dinner
Finish with an in-borough restaurant or café listed on NJTGO’s Califon Food & Drink page.
Lodging
Raritan Inn · Lebanon Township
A well-known nearby bed-and-breakfast uses a Califon mailing address but is physically in Lebanon Township. It can be convenient for Califon visitors, but it is not an in-borough lodging property.
Clinton / Lebanon Area
For a broader selection of hotels and services, the I-78/Route 22 corridor around Clinton and Lebanon is a practical overnight base.
Long Valley / Chester Area
Visitors approaching from Morris County can also consider lodging farther north while using the Columbia Trail and local roads to reach Califon.
Visitor Tips
- Columbia Trail hours and access rules are maintained by Hunterdon County; check current park information before a special trip.
- The trail surface is crushed stone rather than pavement, so choose footwear and bicycle tires accordingly.
- Respect private property along the river and use public access points only.
- Parking availability can vary around events; follow posted signs and municipal restrictions.
- Califon is compact enough that walking between Main Street, the train-station area and nearby local stops is part of the experience.
Own or Manage a Califon Business?
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