Lord Stirling Trail is a standout hiking destination in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, covering 4.5 miles with 80ft of elevation change. Stats: 4.5 miles, 80ft gain, Easy. Type: Loop. Surface: Boardwalk/Dirt. Time: 2 hours. Fee: Free. Dogs: Yes. Permit: No. Wildlife: deer, herons, beavers, wood ducks. Best seasons: Great Swamp watershed freshwater marsh trail. Pack water, layers, and appropriate footwear. Conditions vary across New Jersey. Leave No Trace: stay on trail, pack out all waste, respect wildlife.