Fairy Cave Trail at Jenny Jump State Forest near Great Meadows, New Jersey is an easy 0.3-mile out-and-back hike features views of Ghost Lake and leads to the 20-foot deep cliff side cave known as the Fairy Cave.
Hike Description
This short hike begins at the norther parking lot for Ghost Lake. There is no official trailhead or signage for Fairy Cave, so hikers, after parking, will walk back toward the road -- look to your left-hand side toward Ghost Lake to find a small trail that cuts through the brush. This is your trail.
The Fairy Cave Trail essentially follows the shoreline of Ghost Lake for 0.15-miles, but it's a very slow walk. There can be overgrowth, including thorns and prickers, but the trail isn't very long so the annoyance isn't all that difficult to handle.
Fairy Cave - Mile 0.15
The trail will finally head back uphill from Ghost Lake to reach the base of a cliff -- here, you'll find Fairy Cave. Fairy Cave is about ~4-feet tall, ~8-feet wide, and ~20-feet deep. The cave does not descent into the earth but rather heads straight back into the cliff side before coming to an end ~20-feet in. After exploring the Fairy Cave, the hike back to parking obviously follows the same trail you hiked-in on. Watch your step for roots, rocks, and be mindful of the thorny plants.
Parking
Hikers will find a parking lot at the coordinates provided, located at the north end of Ghost Lake along Shades of Death Road.
Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and cleaned up after.
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