Off-season at the Jersey Shore is a treat

Even if it's not a seafood festival or a fall beach concert, the Jersey Shore in October is worth the trip.

If you live there you know how glorious it can be to have the shore virtually to yourself, especially during the middle of the week.

Most of us go to the shore for the sea and sunshine of the summertime when crowds are large and there is plenty going on.

On a recent weekday, we took a trip to Ventnor, just south of Atlantic City.

The feeling was like nothing you can get during the high tourist season.

Most of the stores and restaurants are still open and there's never a wait to get in or get checked out.

We took a bike ride on the boardwalk into Ventnor and onto the Ventnor fishing pier.

Even if you don't fish, it's a show worth checking out.

Off season at the Jersey Shore is a treat

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Dennis Malloy only.

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Say you’re from Jersey without saying you’re from Jersey

These are everyday expressions that only someone from New Jersey would get. What else should be on this list?

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: