New Jersey has a reputation for being a state of industry and shore towns, but our mountains should be getting attention, too! The tallest spot in the state is up in Sussex County, and High Point State Park offers miles of trails and spectacular views that will impress even the most cynical nature lover. Who would've known that High Point Monument in New Jersey was a miniature Washington Monument right in our own backyard?!
Way up at the tip of Sussex County, Kittatinny Mountain stretches across the border of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Here, you'll find the highest elevation in New Jersey - and a monument that might look a little familiar.
Of course, we're talking about High Point Monument, in High Point State Park. It's a unique four-sided obelisk that looks a whole lot like our nation's famous Washington Monument.
Unlike the Washington Monument, though, this one is dedicated to many people. It was built in 1930 as a memorial to soliders who died fighting for our freedom.
You can actually climb to the top of this 220-foot obelisk! There are 291 stairs that take you to the highest viewing platform. From the top, you can see the Catskills, Poconos, and Wallkill River Valley.
If you don't want to walk up nearly 300 stairs, there are still beautiful views from the bottom. Since this is the highest point in the Garden State, you can see for miles in every direction.
High Point State Park is one of New Jersey's must-visit destinations, and it's a great place to spend a warm day. In the fall, the views here are phenomenal.
Have you ever visited High Point Monument in New Jersey before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! We'd love to hear about some highlights of your trip.
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!
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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.
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!
