New Jersey has some gorgeous hikes, there's no doubt about it. If you're looking for steep elevation gain and striking views, though, there are a couple of hikes people return to time and time again, like Mount Tammany. But if you're looking for a similar kind of hike with less traffic, we have just the trail for you.
The Splitrock Road to Hawk Watch via Four Birds Trail is an amazingly fun trail for hikers looking for a decently challenging hike in New Jersey.
It makes the uphill climb to get here totally worth it!
You can bring dogs on the Splitrock Road to Hawk Watch via Four Birds Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. And bring bug spray — it can get buggy on this trail, especially during the warmer months!
New Jersey might be a small state, but if there's one thing we have a lot of, it's history. There is no better way to see that history come to life than to head into one of the state's many state parks and keep an eye out for where some of the country's most historic figures made their marks. A perfect example of this is Washington Crossing State Park, located near Trenton. This park was where our country's founding father made a key decision that shaped the course of history - and that park is also home to the best hike near Trenton, NJ, the Delaware Canal National Heritage Trail. This is a whopper of a hike, too - coming in at 16.3 miles point to point and connecting the park to Delaware Canal State Park, it's considered an easy route but is primarily completed by those on wheels. It's one of the longer trails in New Jersey, but it's full of gorgeous scenery and historic locations that make it one of the best hikes in New Jersey.
The trail is most popular in March through November, and we highly recommend a bike ride along the fall foliage.
Have you taken the Delaware Canal National Heritage Trail before? Tell us what you think of the best hike near Trenton, NJ, in the comments section! You can see more photos on the official AllTrails trail listing. If you're looking for an even longer trail to explore, check out this massive bike trail that spans from New Brunswick to Trenton. And if you're planning more adventures in the great outdoors, check out Only In Your State's list of the best hikes in New Jersey!
Looking to stay connected in the great outdoors? Consider a subscription to AllTrails + for access to benefits like downloadable trail maps and guides.
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!
advertisement
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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?
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.
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!
