With an impressive network of roadways, it should be no surprise that New Jersey offers several scenic drives. To get away from the tolls and traffic of the Turnpike and to immerse yourself in nature, check out Old Mine Road along the Delaware Water Gap. It doesn’t see much thru-traffic and might just be New Jersey’s loneliest road. If you take the time to appreciate the sights, you’ll find that this is one of the best scenic drives in New Jersey.

Old Mine Road is the entrance to the Delaware Water Gap region.
Image/Google Maps
New Jersey's Old Mine Road runs around 30 miles along the Delaware Water Gap. The drive (with no stops) takes about 80 minutes to complete.
You'll want to plan your trip for a warm weather day in order to see it all.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
Partially closed in the winter, it is magnificent in the spring, summer and fall. The rural road runs through Worthington State Forest and is mostly undeveloped. It is believed to be one of the oldest continually used roads in the United States.
Don't try to rush your trip! You'll want to really take your time.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
A truly relaxing ride, the speed limit is just 15 miles per hour (up to 35) much of the way.
Come visit in the fall for a unique sight and a bright splash of color!
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Embrace the slower pace and take in the scenery. You'll be surrounded by lush greenery in the spring and summer and fantastic foliage in the fall.

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Be sure to bring a camera!
Flickr/Doug Kerr
There are several places to pull over and take pictures along the way including a handful of spots along the water. Be sure to park in a designated area as the road is very narrow.
If you're looking for an adventure, you'll find it in the Water Gap region.
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Just off the route, you'll find opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and even swimming (Turtle Beach). This awesome old truck was photographed right off Old Mine Road.
You won't find too many structures along the way, but there are several barns and other buildings to enjoy. Keep your eye out!
Flickr/Doug Kerr
You'll even find ruins and the remnants of mining towns including Browning and Dunnfield. The charming Calno Schoolhouse is easily seen from the road, fairly intact as of 2008.
Millbrook Village is one of the most notable attractions along the mostly secluded road, and it's definitely worth a visit.
Facebook/Millbrook Village
Located where Old Mine Road intersects Millbrook Road in Hardwick, the Millbrook Village Society helps to preserve the area's past. Several structures from the 1800s survive including an 1860 church which still holds Christmas services. Upcoming events include Spring Fling (5/27) and an Old Fashioned Independence Day Celebration (6/24).
When you're taking a drive just to get away from it all, there is little better than a sight like this.
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Come drive Old Mine Road and you'll find yourself in a little slice of Garden State paradise.

Have you driven down Old Mine Road before, not to get somewhere, but rather to just be somewhere? Share your stories, shots, and favorite drives in the Garden State, and then check out New Jersey’s 7 Official Scenic Byways along with a recent 8th addition, New Jersey’s Newest Scenic Byway.

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best scenic drives in New Jersey

Kim Magaraci | July 10, 2021

What are the most charming small towns in New Jersey?

New Jersey is full of beautiful small towns! Visit Clinton for a glimpse back in time and a beautiful slice of history, go shopping in Haddonfield along Kings Highway, enjoy a delicious BYOB meal in Collingswood, or explore the haunted and eerie history of Mount Holly. Hammonton is the blueberry capital of the country, and Morristown is one of the best places in the whole country to settle down with your family. No matter where you decide to visit, you'll find a charming small town that will capture your heart.

Where can you experience the most beautiful drives in New Jersey?

Some stunning rural drives can be found in South Jersey, and gorgeous mountain drives can be found up north! One of the prettiest drives in New Jersey is a tucked away road in Little Egg Harbor - Seven Bridges Road. On the maps, you'll see it labeled as the "Great Bay Boulevard". It's always enjoyable to drive Route 31, past Bluestone Farm and the rolling hills of the Amwell Valley. To be honest, we think the best drive in New Jersey is Route 206, from Hammonton all the way up to the New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey state line.

What's the most beautiful hike in New Jersey?

While you're on Old Mine Road, you'll be driving through the Delaware Water Gap. If you have time, you'll want to hike to the top of Mount Tammany! This gorgeous peak may not be the tallest in New Jersey, but it's likely the most iconic mountain in New Jersey. From the top you can see across into Pennsylvania and far down the Delaware River.

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Old Mine Road, Old Mine Rd, Sandyston, NJ, USA