Follow The Delaware River Along This Scenic Drive Through New Jersey
By Kim Magaraci|Updated on August 22, 2023(Originally published May 23, 2022)
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Kim Magaraci
Author
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
If you’ve spent much time in the Garden State, you’re well aware of how inaccurate our reputation of industrial plants and crowded highways is. There are so many amazingly scenic drives in New Jersey, and while we have a ton of highways, that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy ones with stellar windshield views. One of the most beautiful roads in the Northeast U.S. is right here in west New Jersey and follows along the Delaware River. Have you ever driven along Route 29 in NJ?
Route 29 in New Jersey is known as River Road in some spots along its path. This scenic drive in western New Jersey follows right alongside the beautiful Delaware River.
You might also hear this road referred to as the Delaware River Scenic Byway. It's been designated as both a New Jersey Scenic Byway and a National Scenic Byway.
This scenic drive in NJ starts in Trenton and begins with a bang. You'll begin your journey by traveling through a tunnel that leads you right into the historic district of the state's capital city.
Soon, though, city buildings will give way to more naturalistic settings. For most of the route, the Delaware River will be visible. You might see it peeking through the trees, or even appearing in full view right next to the road.
The gently winding access road will take you straight to the summit. It's a wonderful spot to have a picnic, bird-watch, spot flowers, or simply enjoy an amazing view.
It's important to stretch your legs a bit on a long car trip, and this is a great place to get out of the car and get your steps in. Park at the lot at the bottom of the long, winding driveway and take the Blue Trail all the way up to the summit.
Ted Stiles Preserve, Hopewell Township, NJ 08560, USA
This fun hike isn't too long, at only about three miles round-trip, so it won't take you all day. The hike up to Baldpate Mountain is one of the best hikes in Hopewell Township, NJ. There's nothing like that view!
Don't worry: there's still plenty of adventure left once you get back on the road! There is a lot to see on Route 29 in NJ.
Want even more hikes? Goat Hill Overlook offers an even shorter trail. This one-mile trek takes you to a lovely overlook of Lambertville and New Hope, Pennsylvania.
Goat Hill Overlook, Coon Path, Lambertville, NJ 08530, USA
In fact, Lambertville itself is right on the water and isn't much of a detour. This delightful town is one of our favorite small towns in New Jersey, and it's got tons of opportunities for dining and shopping.
It's certainly no surprise to those of us who love Lambertville that it regularly appears on lists of the best towns in New Jersey. This place is oh-so-charming!
After you pass Lambertville, you'll find that the scenery opens up again. The beauty of the Delaware River will follow you all the way to Frenchtown, the northern terminus of Route 29 in New Jersey.
This is another great charming river town in New Jersey, and you'll find plenty of historic attractions to enjoy. Spend some time shopping, snacking, dining, or just walking around this charming town before heading back to the highway.
Not able to make the drive yourself right now? Don’t sweat it, Roadways of Delaware has a great video on YouTube:
This drive is magical at any time of year, and it’s one of our favorite scenic drives in NJ no matter the season. If you’d like to plan out your trip along Route 29 in New Jersey, make sure to visit Google Maps.
Regardless of where your travels take you, it’s important to be well-prepared before hitting the road for a lengthy car trip. Check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List to make sure you have everything you need for a great New Jersey road trip!
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More to Explore
Scenic Drives In NJ
Lisa Sammons|August 22, 2023
What are some more of the best cities and towns along Route 29 in New Jersey?
Route 29 in NJ passes through several towns in its 35-mile length. Here are a few:
Lambertville
Frenchtown
Trenton
Delaware Township
What are some more of the most scenic drives in New Jersey?
Anyone who's spent any time on our roads knows we have some amazingly scenic drives in NJ. Here are some of the best:
