Take This Gorgeous Fall Foliage Road Trip To See New Jersey Like Never Before
The Farmer’s Almanac estimates that the official peak season for fall foliage in New Jersey occurs between the dates of mid-October to early November, which doesn’t leave a ton of time for adventuring. Short on time? This perfect two-day route just might be the answer! The best fall foliage in New Jersey awaits.
Northern and inland areas of the state can expect to see the most vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow starting in mid-October, whereas the southern and coastal regions of New Jersey will see the colors really start to change later in the season. With all of our beautiful parks and gardens, there are so many places to enjoy this yearly phenomenon. Here’s a fun road trip through the state that highlights autumn’s art. There’s no need to wonder where to find fall colors in New Jersey anymore, folks. We found exactly what you’re looking for!
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Our epic fall road trip clocks in at 300 miles and just over 7 hours of driving, so you'll most likely want to make this trip over two days. This will give you time to not only take in the foliage but stop at several attractions along the way. New Jersey is full of beautiful, low-key experiences and hidden gems.
Palisades Interstate Park absolutely comes alive with color come the autumn season. The trees look like they're on fire, and the landscape has incredible, colorful depth. Take a stroll through and, if you have time, explore the ruins of Cliff Dale Manor. There are some great lookout points here, so you don't even need to hike for spectacular views of changing leaves, towering cliffs, as well as the Hudson River and New York City.
Ringwood State Park boasts fantastic foliage, and it also offers you the opportunity to visit Ringwood Manor and Skylands Manor. Both manors are beautiful estates that promise incredible day trips in New Jersey. Ringwood State Park is also home to the New Jersey State Botanical Gardens, a delightful place no matter the season. On your way to the next stop, you'll be driving through Abraham S. Hewitt State Forest, so keep your eyes peeled for gorgeous fall foliage on display along your route.
High Point State Park is home to the highest point in New Jersey, and if you make your way to the top, you'll have the opportunity to view fall colors in three states. You'll spot treetops in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania on a clear day. Enjoy a rainbow of colors around Lake Marcia and be sure to stop at High Point Monument. After High Point, you'll head towards Buttermilk Falls, driving through Stokes State Forest. Expect some spectacular fall colors in New Jersey along the way.
Buttermilk Falls
Mountain Road, Mountain Rd, Walpack Township, NJ, USA
Buttermilk Falls is meant to be a quick stop, but one that won't disappoint. These towering falls have a viewing area at the base and a platform for a unique perspective. Be prepared as due to extensive construction and other factors, you may have to hike to see the falls.
Worthington State Forest is the last stop of our road trip on day one. Depending on how tired you are or how late it is, you can simply drive through and enjoy the peak fall foliage or head out for a hike. If you do decide to hike, make sure to head out to the scenic and beautiful Sunfish Pond. It's a bit out of the way, but it's picturesque and tucked away in the heart of the forest.
Washington Crossing State Park
355 Washington Crossing Pennington Rd, Titusville, NJ 08560, USA
Relive history at Washington Crossing State Park. Head to the visitor's center for informative exhibits about Washington's famous Delaware River crossing and explore the Johnson Ferry House where Washington likely stayed. The park offers regular living history demonstrations, so make sure to keep up to date with their calendar of events while planning your fall foliage road trip in New Jersey.
Belleplain State Forest
Belleplain State Forest, Upper Township, NJ 08270, USA
Unlike the other parks on this trip, there isn't a ton to do here in the fall, other than go for a hike. For a forest, what else do you need? Come to experience the beauty of New Jersey's natural landscape or perhaps go on your own birding expedition. There are more than 20 trails starting at a mile in length, so there are a plethora of opportunities to see the fall colors in New Jersey.
Head to historic Batsto Village and explore restored buildings dating back nearly 200 years. You'll have the chance to visit a 19th-century gristmill, sawmill, general store, cottages, and many other historic structures. Stroll the village and be sure to take a guided tour of the spectacular 32-room Batsto Mansion. When you're done, head to Batsto Lake for some leaf-peeping.
For driving directions, make sure to check out our map right here. This trip is just one of many ways to enjoy the best fall foliage in New Jersey, but what’s YOUR favorite way to enjoy the autumn leaves? Make sure to leave your tips and thoughts in the comments!
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Fall Foliage In New Jersey
August 17, 2019
Meghan Kraft
What is the best time to see peak fall foliage in New Jersey?
The best time to see fall colors in New Jersey is generally from mid-October to early November, although these dates will change slightly depending on the year.
Where are the best places in New Jersey to see fall foliage?
If you’re driving through New Jersey in the autumn you’re bound to see beautiful bouts of fall foliage even just along the highways, but heading to spots like Bearfort Mountain, Mount Tammany and Black River County Park is a great call for extended leaf-peeping. Terrace Pond is also popular, although the hiking loop tends to be a bit more challenging.
What are the best New Jersey hikes to take in the fall?
New Jersey is one of the most underrated states when it comes to topographical beauty, but there are multiple places throughout that boast gorgeous fall foliage views. Hike Monument Trail in High Point State Park, indulge in a day spent on Sunrise Mountain or perhaps wander the easy hiking trails along Black River in Hacklebarney State Park. Wyanokie High Point boasts 360 degree views at Norvin Green, and hiking Sunfish Pond at the Delaware Water Gap is beautiful come October.
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Kristen is a writer, editor, and social media maven who loves her state. Born and raised in New Jersey, sharing all it has to offer is her passion. After attending Montclair State University, she continued her education online, obtaining certifications in social media management.
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