New Jersey residents are a different breed when it comes to driving – as any out-of-state visitor who violated the rules of the road found out pretty quickly, usually with a barrage of honks! But that doesn’t mean all New Jersey roads are created equal. There are some drives around the Garden State that can daunt even the most fearless drivers. These include high-flying adventures that can be a memorable experience for daring drivers, to packed and intimidating highways and intersections that command even experienced drivers to keep their wits about them. So read on for the six scariest drives in New Jersey, and make sure to pay extra attention to the road when braving these stretches of road next time!
This rural road takes you through the Pine Barrens, through some of the state's forest regions and rural areas, and it's a lovely quiet drive - during the day. At night, it feels like you're the only one around for miles - and you might just be. Keep an eye out for darting deer - this isolated area is known for them acting unpredictably.
2. Somerville Circle
Somerville Circle, Somerville Cir, Raritan, NJ, USA
The closest thing in New Jersey to a classic British roundabout, this circle was built in the 1930s. It was a chaotic spot that was infamous for car accidents. A bridge built in the 1990s allows people to bypass the circle and has alleviated traffic, but those who take the lower route are in for a tense, chaotic few minutes.
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3. Henry Hudson Drive
Henry Hudson Drive, Henry Hudson Dr, Fort Lee, NJ, USA
Not all terrifying drives are to be avoided! The Henry Hudson Drive is a gorgeous cliffside excursion in the Palisades, and can be driven, biked, or hiked. No matter which way you take it, you'll see stunning views - and steep cliffs - so anyone with a fear of heights should approach carefully.
Speaking of heights, it doesn't get more iconic than the Pulaski Skyway - a massive metal bridge high above an industrial area. Not only is the view down intimidating, but this is a tight drive with non-existent shoulders and heavy traffic.
All of New Jersey's major highways are a test of driving skill, but Route 22 may top them all. A busy and heavily developed area in Union and Springfield, it's a two-and-a-half mile stretch with exit ramps everywhere. Constant vigilance is needed to navigate the high-speed traffic.
The suburban township of Woodbridge is famous for its culture - and infamous for one area in particular. It's one of the busiest transit areas in the state, and sees the Parkway, the Turnpike, Route 297, Route 9, and a collection of local streets all intersect in a confusing network of exits and turns. Locals know it by heart by now - but visitors often find themselves getting hopelessly turned around their first time in the area.
Have you taken any of these famous – or infamous – stretches of New Jersey road? Tell us your experiences in the comments section, and let us know what you think are the scariest drives in New Jersey! You might just have an intersection in your hometown that puts some of these to shame. For a very different kind of drive this summer, why not take this memorable shore drive to Grassy Sound Marina?
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