The branch line was originally built to transport coal and iron ore from mines in Morris County for use in the Taylor Wharton Iron and Steel Company, the oldest foundry in United States history,[1] and other foundries at High Bridge or Wharton.

An iron ore train led by the coincidentally named Columbia Engine derailed on the trestle and crashed into the river below.

Opposition to gas utilities and their relationship to hydraulic fracturing (aka "Fracking") have spurred public outcry to rename the route High Bridge Branch Trail, a more historically accurate and less controversial tag.

Furthermore, it may be considered a conflict of interest for a government agency to promote a private industry such as Columbia Gas in name and associated publications (taxpayer-funded maps, guides, interpretive signage, etc.).

Just north of Long Valley, Patriots' Path provides links east towards County Route 513 and west towards Schooley's Mountain Park.

Olive Townships, an active rail line is still in service and operated by the Morristown and Erie Railway to Wharton.

There is another public parking area in Long Valley off Schooley's Mountain Road between Fairview Avenue and Maple Lane, across from The Coffee Potter (the old Long Valley train station when the Central Railroad of New Jersey train line passed through the area).