New Jersey travel and outdoors books by Arline Zatz

Horsing Around in New Jersey: The Horse Lover's Guide to Everything Equine (Rutgers University Press)

horsing aroundThe first guidebook to everything equine in the Garden State, this book is for horse lovers--from the novice who yearns to go horseback riding but doesn't know how or where to begin, to the experienced equestrian seeking new trails, campsites, and challenges.

Learn about where to take riding lessons, rent a horse, and obtain riding permits; discover New Jersey's 77 horse trails described in detail; where to watch or participate in sports on horseback; safety and first aid tips; educational opportunities, 4-H, and pony clubs; equine employment; and lots more!

Loads of photographs; information on equine associations and breed registries; equipment sources; as well as interesting facts guarantee a good read - and ride!

Reviews of Horsing Around in New Jersey: The Horse Lover's Guide to Everything Equine

"This long awaited book will be a great resource to the thousands of equestrians of New Jersey and will in no doubt lead to greater awareness of, and usage on, the beautiful and rustic trails found in the Garden State." Craig Della Penna, author of 24 Great Rail-Trails of New Jersey

30 Bicycle Tours in New Jersey (Backcountry Publications)

bicycleDiscover the heart of the Garden State - its farmlands, beaches, pine barrens, lakes, and canals - by bicycle! These 30 tours, perfect for novice or expert, explore the historic towns of Flemington, Hope, and Bridgeton, among others, as well as the backwoods settlements of Batsto, Tabernacle, and Loantaka, revealing a glimpse of New Jersey's rural roots.

Each leisurely tour contains precise directions, detailed maps, and informative descriptions of the outstanding natural, cultural and historic features encountered along the way. Trips vary in length from a couple of hours to overnight. If desired, longer trips can be divided into shorter segments.Information on what to wear, bring, eat, and where to stop, whether to fish, visit a museum, or admire a flower or scenery, is included.

New Jersey's Great Gardens (Countryman Press/W.W. Norton)

gardensExplore the gardens of the Garden State. Denise Mikics, editor of New Jersey Outdoors Magazine, noted that "The botanical, historical, anecdotal, and even mythological details Arline Zatz has woven into her poetic descriptions enlighten and delight. And the practical information she provides in this meticulously researched guide will help visitors enjoy each trip to the fullest. Visiting these horticultural gems - via print or in person - will afford gardening enthusiasts and lovers of natural beauty many happy hours."

The 125 gardens include rose, colonial, herb, Shakespeare, demonstration, education, bird, butterfly, and wildflower gardens, plus one-of-a-kind gardens in unexpected places. Most are free, and the book details hours, time of year to visit, historic background, and directions. Enjoy landscaped grounds, spectacular estates; stroll through vast arboretums with winding trails; and awaken the senses.

New Jersey's Special Places (Countryman Press/W.W. Norton)

special placesThis national award-winning book explores every nook and cranny of the state. You'll be guided step- by-step through each attraction, with descriptions of special events and where to eat and stay. Garden State residents and visitors alike will derive years of unforgettable exploration and recreation from this book. The fully detailed outings will appeal to adults and children alike.

Step back in time in the state's largest historical district, explore Revolutionary War battlefields, and see an 18th-century iron furnace. Or paddle down a meandering river, hike to the state's highest spot, and go on a safari! Talk with a vintner, sample his wines, watch artisans blowing glass, ramble through beautiful gardens, hunt for minerals in an old mine, and watch wildlife in rich sanctuaries. Don't miss America's leading golf museum and the glorious gardens.

Best Hikes with Children in New Jersey (The Mountaineers Books)

hikesGo take a hike! The 85 hikes in this book reward explorers both young and old with fabulous views into distant valleys, the sound of meandering streams, open spaces, and fresh air. Hike the Kittatinny Mountains for unbeatable vistas; scamper upon huge boulders while overlooking the Hudson River; discover birds, reptiles, and mammals; or look for ersatz diamonds on a Cape May Beach.

Hike an hour, a morning, an entire day or overnight. Detailed trail descriptions include a quick-reference heading with information on distance (from 1 to 8 miles round-trip), difficulty (from easy to more challenging), elevation gain, and best time to go, making it easy to choose a suitable hike. Useful tips on hiking with kids, safety, and environmental awareness complete this practical guide to enjoyable hiking in the Garden State.

Reviews of Best Hikes With Children in New Jersey

Union County Family - April 1, 2005
There are plenty of places to hike with children in the Garden State. Luckily for parents, finding just where to go is easy, thanks to the newly revised Best Hikes with Children in New Jersey.

Asbury Park Press - April 1, 2005
Take a hike has taken on a new meaning, thanks to writer/photographer Arline Zatz.

Trentonian - April 1, 2005
Anyone looking for a way to entertain children outside once the weather warms up should scan through this book.

Real Simple - June 28, 2005
Back in the day, you loved hiking, but lately the only communing with nature you do is during play dates in the park. Get back to the woods with your kids (and pry them away from SpongeBob for a while) with the Best Hikes with Children series.

About Arline Zatz

New Jersey book updates

New Jersey's Great Gardens

Chapter 2 - Skylands, the New Jersey State Botanical Garden: Phone numbers have changed. The new ones are: 973-962-7031 or 973-962-2240.

Chapter 74 - Ground For Sculpture: Now Open Tuesday to Sunday; 10 am- 9 pm; fee now charged. Museum Shop is now in the Domestic Arts Building. The Toad Hall Shop & Gallery is next to Rat's Restaurant.

Best Hikes With Children in New Jersey

Chapter 45 - Jenny Jump. Reader Thena reported that parts of the trail are now badly maintained and large tree trunks block the path at two places.

also see New Jersey Fun Facts and New Jersey Travels

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Writing and photography © 2007-2011 Arline Zatz. All rights reserved. Contact us if reprint permission is needed.