Truly, one of the best features of Monmouth County is its park system.  With over 30 parks, gardens, ocean beaches, forests, golf courses, historic sites, recreation areas and marine habitats, it's comprised of over 14,500 acres and each year it offers over 4000 recreation programs with activities suitable for any age or ability.

One of my personal faves (in part because I can walk to it from my home) is Hartshorne Woods, almost 800 acres of trails for hiking, biking, mountain biking, horseback riding or walking. I've heard that it is regarded as one of the best mountain biking parks on the east coast. 

It is located along the river so there are some wonderful views of the Navesink & Shrewsbury rivers as well as the ocean.  Best of all, you feel like you are so far away from everything its a great way to restore your sanity when you need a break from everything. Accesible from Highlands as well as the Navesink section of Middletown, its a local favorite for people from the entire surrounding area.

For lots more information about programs, activities and all the park system's properties visit their website at http://www.monmouthcountyparks.com/