The Remote Town In New Jersey That’s Full Of Adventure
You can find fantastic adventures all over the Garden State. From kayaking through the Pine Barrens to parasailing along our coast, New Jersey has got you covered when it comes to fun. Wherever you are, you’re just a stone’s throw away from exciting experiences. But if you’re looking for one town that’s absolutely filled with thrills, Vernon Township has got you covered. You’ve likely heard of it, but you’d never guess just how much it has to offer.
This is Vernon Township, located in Sussex County.
The seventy square mile township borders New York State and is over an hour from the hustle and bustle of New York City. One of New Jersey's more bucolic neighborhoods, you won't find mega malls or high rise apartments here. However, you will find an abundance of adventure. A trip here means a chance to explore the outdoors and get your heart pumping.
It is perhaps best known for being home to Mountain Creek, an all-season resort.
The resort offers a wide range of outdoor activities, all year long. You can ski, snowboard, or snow tube in the winter. Summer is all about water slides, and springtime is for mountain biking. You can also golf, or go horseback riding. New adventures are added all the time.
You'll find a treetop obstacle course surrounded by the beautiful Kittatinny Mountains. Overcome challenge after challenge including swinging bridges and vertical climbs. You're safely harnessed in and the course is suitable for most skill levels. Another favorite is the zipline tour. Zip from platform to platform, over the water and through the woods - it's a truly unforgettable experience that offers the most spectacular views.
A newer attraction to Vernon Township is the National Winter Activities Center.
On the grounds of the former Hidden Valley Ski Resort, the National Winter Activities Center is dedicated to improving the lives, health and fitness of youth throughout the nation by providing access to winter sports. They are partnered with U.S. Ski & Snowboard, the International Ski Federation, YMCA, and Boys & Girls Club of America. They provide both instruction and nutritious meals to local youth from the tri-state area. Programs are very affordable!
Waywayanda State Park is another perfect spot for adventure.
You'll find a sizable portion of this park in Vernon Township, and there's just so much to do here. Enjoy over 60 miles of marked trails including a 20-mile section of the Appalachian Trail! Visitors can also camp, swim, fish, hunt, picnic, or go boating. Canoes, rowboats (with or without electric motors) and paddle boats may be rented at Wawayanda Lake. Privately owned water craft (including sail boats) may be launched. At an elevation of 1,140 feet above sea level, this is also a scenic destination for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. If birdwatching is more your scene, head to the nearby Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge.
Enjoy a romantic escape at Alpine Haus Bed & Breakfast. Packages include everything from chocolate covered strawberries to in-room massages. For a culinary adventure, check out Wings Asian Bistro or Tomato Garden. Wings offers a wide variety of Japanese, Chinese and Thai dishes, including fresh sushi. Tomato Garden serves up pizza, pasta, and a plethora of Italian dishes.
Adventure lies around every corner in Vernon Township! What’s your favorite thing to do here? What other towns in New Jersey are overflowing with fun and excitement? While you’re in the area, check out this upcoming ice carnival for something extra special!
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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.
