Winter and hiking aren't things that necessarily seem to go together but trust us, sometimes they really work with each other. One of the best New Jersey trails to hike during winter is the Stairway to Heaven trail, located near Vernon township and ascending Wawayanda Mountain. The out-and-back trail, which is about three miles long, is super popular all year round. It's a steep climb and a more difficult hike, but the forest is beautiful and the views of Vernon Valley, Pochuck Mountain, the Kittatinny's, and the Catskills are jaw-dropping. However, we're especially fond of it during the winter, as the snow enhances the trail's beauty.
Stairway to Heaven is one of the most popular hiking trails in New Jersey.
At some points, the rocks do seem to form a (very steep) staircase.
But a little-known fact about the Staircase to Heaven trail is that it's better in the snow.
First off the massive boulders you pass on the route? Better in the snow.
The general peace and quiet found in the woods? Better in the snow.
And the view is definitely better when there's a layer of snow coating the land.
It looks like a totally different world up here in the winter!
If the steep climb up to the top of Wawayanda Mountain isn't for you, you can enjoy the nearby marsh walk, which is much flatter but still very pretty.
And as a reminder, this area is beautiful to hike in any time of the year. It's just truly special during the winter.
Remember to be safe while hiking during the winter, though! Ice and snow will make it slippery out there.
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