The relatively flat trail curves along the mountainside above the South Branch of the Raritan River for 7 miles from High Bridge north to the county line. Two bridges carry the trail over Cokesbury Road and the South Branch of the Raritan River. The latter bridge is elevated approximately 80 feet and spans a length of 260 feet over the river bottom. This bridge is located near the Ken Lockwood Gorge. Several roads bisect the park making for easy access. Benches located along the trail provide areas to rest and enjoy the scenery.

The trail's natural surface allows visitors to enjoy the park in a couple of ways. Hiking is probably the most popular. The trail is wide enough to provide a great opportunity for biking as well as cross-country skiing in the winter.

While the County Parks & Recreation Division only maintains the Columbia Trail within the county, the trail continues into Morris County where it ends at Bartley. The Columbia Trail forms part of the Highlands Trail which will eventually span between Hunterdon and Passaic Counties.