Some trails are good for avid hiking enthusiasts, and some trails are meant for, well, not-so-avid hiking enthusiasts. But that doesn't mean a trail isn't good or exciting if it's an easier one - it can still surprise you with certain features. One such trail is the Warren-Highlands Trail to the Marble Hill Ice Cave, located near Phillipsburg, New Jersey.
This is not a long or difficult hike, but it is still an incredibly beautiful trek through the forest. There's a gorgeous river to pause and reflect at, a lot of bird-watching opportunities, and best of all, an ice cave. And this easy hike in New Jersey is good for all ages!
Accessing the Marble Hill Ice Cave via the Warren-Highlands Trail is actually super easy.
The loop trail is less than a mile long, plus the elevation gain is only 374 feet.
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Of course, just because it's an easy trail doesn't mean it's not a beautiful hike, regardless of the season.
The highlight is the Marble Ice Cave itself.
The cave looks pretty ominous from afar, but it's actually super cool once you get into it!
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There are all sorts of interesting rock formations inside.
And of course, there are the icicles. Look at how stunning they are!
It's like a setting from a fairytale.
These ice formations are really stealing the show. They are really magical.
The icicles aren't always there, though - just a warning.
Regardless, exploring the cave is such a fun activity.
If you can't make it out to the Marble Hill Cave right now, check out this video for a first-person look inside from a local explorer!
Things to keep in mind: The Marble Hill Ice Cave trail is best used from March until October, it can get a little slippery at certain points, and finding the entrance can be a tad difficult, according to AllTrails reviewers. Be prepared! Many hikers like to subscribe to AllTrails + to make it easier to plan their expeditions. Phillipsburg is also home to a restored local bar and grill with a big local fanbase!
New Jersey is a beautiful place all year long, but some places are just more magical in the fall. With the leaves changing and temperatures cooling, there are so many stunning places to explore in the Garden State this time of year. With this in mind, we've compiled a list of some not-to-be-missed destinations for seasonal fun and epic places to visit in New Jersey. Whether you're partial to pumpkin patches, wooded hikes, scenic views, or something else altogether, you're bound to find a bucket-list-worthy activity on this list. Ready to start exploring? Put on your favorite cozy sweater and let's go!
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1. The Delaware Water Gap, From Blairstown to Montague Township
Our list of incredible fall activities in New Jersey begins with a trip to the iconic Delaware Water Gap. Acres of forests and magnificent mountains are made more beautiful by the changing leaves. Moreover, the Delaware Water Gap is a perfect spot for exploring beautiful waterfalls in New Jersey.
2. Allamuchy State Park, Byram
Enjoy incredible views of the fall foliage from a fantastic vantage point when you visit this picturesque New Jersey State Park. And just wait until you see the views! There's a trail that leads to a jaw-dropping overlook in New Jersey that lets you see for miles and miles.
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3. Batsto Village, Hammonton
This historic village in New Jersey's Pine Barrens is chock full of family fun and has great fall festivals. Another added layer of fun is that this park is home to a New Jersey ghost town - perfect for exploring in the fall.
4. Worthington State Forest, Columbia
Enjoyable year round, enjoy fall hikes and kayaking at this natural paradise. While you're there, be sure to check out this stunning New Jersey trail.
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5. Southwind Vineyard, Millville
Enjoy the horses, enjoy the wine, and take in the gorgeous autumn leaves. You'll agree that it's one of the most stunning vineyards in New Jersey.
6. Dingman's Bridge, Layton
This bridge is the only privately-owned toll bridge in New Jersey and one of the few remaining privately owned bridges in the nation. Cars pay just $1 to cross, but biking is free. Fall is the perfect time for a bike ride across the Delaware. When it comes to impressive bridges in New Jersey, this one takes the cake!
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7. Ringwood State Park, Ringwood
Ringwood State Park is magical in the fall! Watch the leaves turn while you visit the botanical gardens, Skylands Manor and Ringwood Mansion. Stroll the beautiful grounds and enjoy the cool breezes.
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8. Great Falls, Paterson
Always gorgeous, the Great Falls are spectacularly stunning after heavy rains surrounded by autumn colors. There's a reason this waterfall is called the Niagara Falls of New Jersey!
9. Mount Tammany, Knowlton
Enjoy incredible views of the Delaware, with Mount Minsi right across the river. Some believe that this is the most beautiful mountain in America! Do you agree?
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10. Cape May
The city is filled with history and incredible to explore. Swamped in the summers, fall is the perfect time to take it all in. Check out the homes, shops, restaurants, or even a ghost tour. In fact, we've even put together a guide to show you the best restaurants and attractions in Cape May.
11. Palisades Interstate Parkway, From Fort Lee to Alpine
There's so much to enjoy, from incredible foliage to panoramic views of the Hudson River. Pack a picnic and hike the whole way...there's much to discover. You might just find that it's the most beautiful drive in New Jersey.
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12. Green Sergeant's Covered Bridge, Stockton
New Jersey's last public covered bridge makes for fun photo opportunities, especially in the fall months. The longest covered bridge in New Jersey definitely deserves a spot on your fall bucket list!
What are your thoughts on these beautiful places to visit in New Jersey? What are some of your favorite fall activities in New Jersey? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you! For related content, you may enjoy reading about this haunted corn maze in New Jersey. Let's just say it's not for the faint of heart!
Looking for more New Jersey fun? Take a look at this video outlining how to talk like a local!
There are lots of great lakes in New Jersey, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, but none of them are as stunning as the peaceful retreat hiding in the small town of Shamong. Located on the outskirts of Wharton State Forest, Atsion Lake won’t have the crowds of some of the state’s most popular spots like Lake Hopatcong – but that’s just because it’s one of the state’s best-kept secrets! However, it’s one secret you’ll want to be in on, and that’s because it’s the clearest lake in New Jersey. So grab your float tube, head to the lakeside, and take in all the natural beauty that one of the most elusive lakes in NJ has to offer.
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Do you want to go to the beach without the crowds of the Jersey Shore? Head to Wharton State Forest.
Atsion Lake is no doubt among the most beautiful lakes in New Jersey, so it's no surprise a lucky few have built their homes on its crystal-clear shores.
During the summer, it can always be seen filled with dozens of happy families taking in the cool water.
When you're done with the water for now, the entire Wharton State Forest area is a wonderful retreat to explore.
The clear, easy hiking trails are especially beautiful to explore when the fall foliage is at its peak.
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The area is filled with signs of the past, as nature has reclaimed these old railroad tracks and turned them into just another pathway for hikers.
Don't miss the Wharton Visitors Center, which holds a small museum complete with dioramas of local wildlife.
You'll want to spend the whole day in the area - and return to the shore of this lovely lake in New Jersey for one of the state's best sunsets - yep, this New Jersey lake is a treat day AND night!
Have you floated on the waters of Atsion Lake? If so, do you agree that it’s the clearest lake in New Jersey? Let us know your thoughts, along with your favorite activities on the water or in the surrounding state forest. Available activities may vary with the seasons, so make sure to visit the New Jersey state website before you head to this lovely lake in New Jersey.
The must-visit lakes in New Jersey are plentiful. Lake Atsion is just the tip of the iceberg. So, when you’re ready to visit some other lovely lakes and perhaps do a bit of kayaking, check out these beautiful lakes in New Jersey, according to our readers: