Fort Hancock, located in Sandy Hook, New Jersey, is a former United States Army fort. It was a coastal artillery base that protected the Atlantic coast and the entrance to New York Harbor. It was first operational in 1896. There are a variety of things to see and do at the former fort.
Casa Ortiz
Casa Ortiz is a Spanish Colonial style home built in the late 1700s using locally available materials. The original building features adobe walls, vigas or roof supports, and latillas, or slats. It was built by Jose Ortiz, a salt trader. The home is now filled with books, both English and Spanish, including children’s literature.
Casa Ortiz is located in downtown Laredo, Texas. Built between 1829 and 1830, this historic building was recorded as a Texas Historical Landmark in 1964. It is a cultural center for Laredo State University and for community events and educational purposes. It is also associated with the Webb County Heritage Foundation and Streets of Laredo.
Multi-Use Pathway
The Sandy Hook Multi-Use Pathway is 8.5 miles long and includes a wildlife observation deck and bird observatory. The path also features beaches and the historic Fort Hancock. The trail is also shared by hikers and in-line skaters. It can be accessed via Highway 36 or from the Sandy Hook entrance. The path also features bike racks strategically placed throughout the route. Visitors should bring a lock to lock up their bikes while using the trail.
Parking is available at several parking lots within the Fort Hancock complex. From there, you can head across the road to the Multi-Use Pathway. The trail passes Battery Potter, a massive gun emplacement. You can even take a tour of this site if you’re interested. You’ll also pass by the parade grounds and the old barracks before arriving at Officer’s Row, the Fort’s entrance.
If you’re interested in nature, Fort Hancock’s Multi-Use Pathway is perfect for you. This nine-mile path follows the shoreline along the ocean and offers beautiful views at all times of the day. There’s even a lighthouse nearby that you can visit. And, if you’re looking for a fun way to spend a day outdoors, you’ll never get bored walking or biking the multi-use pathway in Fort Hancock.
The multi-use pathway is part of Maine’s Eastern Trail, a multi-use pathway that connects towns along a 65-mile corridor. It stretches from the New Hampshire border in Kittery to Bug Light Park in South Portland. Twenty-two miles of the pathway is off-road, and you can bike and hike on the trail. You can also explore the marsh area by bike, a scenic path that takes you along the Scarborough Marsh. The Audubon Center provides information about the area and rents kayaks for the public to use.
