While New Jersey does have one of the most dense concentrations of railways and roadways in the nation, we’re not all highways and train tracks. It’s true. If you’re not familiar with the state, you might find yourself wondering, “What are the natural wonders of New Jersey?” And the answer is, there are lots of New Jersey natural wonders! The Garden State has an abundance of natural beauty, and one of the best ways to enjoy it is a multi-day road trip. This particular trip focuses on the northern portion of the state, looping through several counties including Sussex, Warren, Bergen, and Passaic. While a fun jaunt any time of year, we think it truly stands out in the fall (but that’s just our opinion). Whatever time of year you decide to embark on this trek, prepare to enjoy one of the best road trips in New Jersey!

Image/GoogleMaps
High Point State Park
High Point State Park, 1480 NJ-23, Sussex, NJ 07461, USA
Flickr/Bogdan Migulski
The highest point in New Jersey, High Point offers stunning panoramic views. One of the most beautiful places in New Jersey, there's beauty every direction you look, and reaching the summit is easy. While you can hike your way up, you can also drive and park at the peak.
Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls, Mountain Rd, Layton, NJ 07851, USA
Flickr/Nicholas A. Tonelli
Another lovely lookout in New Jersey that you can just drive up to, visitors can score spectacular views from the elevated platform. It towers over 200 feet and is best viewed after a rainy day or two.
Worthington State Forest
Worthington State Forest, Hardwick Township, NJ 07832, USA
Flickr/Amelia Gapin
When it comes to New Jersey natural wonders, Worthington State Forest ranks pretty high up there. Located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, you can access the river from here and take in some of the most stunning waterfalls in New Jersey. Our mountains may not be the highest, but they sure do look impressive from the water. Be sure to bring your boat (canoe/kayak) or rent one nearby.
Stay: The RoseMary Inn
The RoseMary Inn, 88 Hainesburg River Rd, Columbia, NJ 07832, USA
Facebook/The RoseMary Inn
After your day in nature, lavish yourself in luxury. The RoseMary Inn, a B&B in Columbia, has dozens of 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, and they're well deserved. Enjoy views of the Kittatinny Mountains, a picturesque pond and a delicious 3-course breakfast.
Great Falls National Historical Park
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, 72 McBride Ave Ext, Paterson, NJ 07501, USA
Image/Author's Own
This natural oasis in the heart of Paterson offers several hiking trails, amazing views from all angles, and access to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Jersey. We've personally snapped this shot from a distance, but visitors can cross a bridge near the falls for a unique perspective.
Palisades Interstate Park
Palisades Interstate Parkway, Palisades Interstate Pkwy, United States
Flickr/Doug Kerr
A truly magical place, this is one of the most popular parks in New Jersey. Visitors will delight in all that can be found here, including a stunning tower (the Women's Federation Monument) and manor ruins (Cliffdale Manor). You'll find several hiking trails and scenic views of the Hudson River. The park is free to visit, offers boat access at the Alpine Boat Basin and even has a snack shack.
Ringwood State Park
Ringwood State Park, 1304 Sloatsburg Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456, USA
Flickr/Michael Ostendorp
Ringwood State Park is also among the most popular state parks in New Jersey. Besides the magnificent man-made mansions, you'll find a beautiful botanical garden, hiking trails, and Shepherd Lake. Enjoy flowers or foliage, depending on the season.
Waywayanda State Park
Wawayanda State Park, 885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, NJ 07421, USA
Flickr/Bemep
Popular among boaters and fishermen (and women), visitors can camp at this New Jersey state park. That's not all, though. You can actually hike a 20-mile stretch of the famed Appalachian Trail. There are a variety of landscapes and the Bearfort Mountain Natural Area is a haven for hawks.

So, what do you think? Does this answer the question, “What are the natural wonders of New Jersey?” Are these the best of all New Jersey natural wonders? How does this route rank among other New Jersey road trips? Whatever you have to say, we want to hear it, so share your thoughts with us!

While there are many other New Jersey natural wonders (hello, Pine Barrens!), this trip focuses on a specific area of the state to cut down on driving time. For a road trip that celebrates our southern shoreline, check out this New Jersey road trip, which is sure to result in an unforgettable summer adventure. For more on Cliffdale Manor (mentioned above), check out our past article to learn more about the hidden ruins in New Jersey.

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New Jersey Natural Wonders

Daniella DiRienzo | February 08, 2023

What are the natural wonders of New Jersey, aside from those mentioned above, that are a must-visit for all residents?

There are quite a few New Jersey natural wonders that should be visited by all, including:

  • Sunfish Pond – Located within the Water Gap area, Sunfish Pond is a glacial lake along the Appalachian Trail.
  • The Pinelands - The Pinelands, or Pine Barrens, is a one-of-a-kind ecosystem in southern New Jersey.
  • The Jersey Shore – The shoreline coastline features expansive beaches along the outer coastal plain, with multiple barrier islands, massive dune systems, and a habitat for thousands of species.

 

What other New Jersey road trips are worth embarking on?

There are lots of great options for road trips in New Jersey, including:

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