A Brand New Scenic Byway Is Coming To New Jersey… And You’ll Want To Drive It
There are so many beautiful byways in New Jersey, but only 7 of them have an official “scenic byway” designation… that is, until now. Just recently, New Jersey welcomed its newest scenic byway – the Western Highlands Scenic Byway. It is the 8th scenic byway in the Garden State and the first in Sussex County.
The byway begins where Route 515 intersects Route 23. It traverses north through Hardyston and Vernon to Route 94 and back down south along Vernon Crossing Road, Sand Hill Road and McPeek Road.
The byway was sponsored by the Vernon Township Historical Society. You'll find spectacular views and numerous historic sites along the way including Mastodon Lake, St. Thomas Church, the Appalachian Trail, Pinwheel Vista, the 1881 Railroad Depot at Vernon Crossing, Vernon Valley Farm and many others.
A scenic byway designation can be awarded to roads and routes that are regionally significant in one or more of the following areas: scenic, natural, recreational, cultural, historic, or archaeological. This particular byway offers a mix of these qualities.
You can find numerous opportunities for recreation and entertainment along the 13-mile route including hiking, skiing (at Mountain Creek), fishing and historic sites. Landscapes you'll find include forest and wetlands.
This short, scenic drive is lovely year-round and I encourage everyone to check it out. For more information, visit the Vernon Historical Society Website. To learn about New Jersey’s other scenic byways, see my previous post: These 7 Beautiful Byways In New Jersey Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive.
