New Jersey isn't usually known for its caves, with neighboring states having the bigger caverns - but that just means that the NJ caves we have are all the more unique, and less likely to be crowded. You can find a unique cave adventure in New Jersey in the northern town of Phillipsburg, and it's all the more stunning in the winter. All you have to do is take an easy 1.9-mile trail in the Marble Hill Natural Area - the perfect way to work up an appetite on a frosty winter day. The good news is, you're only a few minutes from the Brass Rail Restaurant & Bar, a historic and rustic Phillipsburg restaurant that makes the perfect finish to a day of exploring. Combining these two will give you one of the most memorable day trips in the north Jersey area.
The Marble Hill Ice Cave-via-Warren-Highlands Trail in Marble Hill is under two miles long, and is considered an easy route -with a surprising secret.
While most people might explore the area in warmer months, there is a special incentive to those who brave it in the winter.
You won't encounter any expert terrain, but you should pack some good hiking boots for the rougher areas.
The Marble Hill Ice Cave, a small cave that looks stunning in the winter, is the crown gem of the area's natural scene.
During the winter, hundreds of little icicles form on the cave roof and floor, creating the appearance of an ancient network of stalactites and stalagmites.
Nothing like a good hike to work up an appetite, so head to the Brass Rail only minutes away.
This restaurant has been serving Phillipsburg for around a hundred years, and the rustic interior feels like an old western saloon - perfect to go with a day of exploring caves.
The menu focuses on hearty country favorites like barbecue, fried chicken, and pizza - perfect stick-to-your-ribs food for winter.
There is even a weekly prime rib special, cooked to order and served with all the sides for a reasonable price!
Have you taken this memorable cave adventure in New Jersey or eaten at the Brass Rail? Let us know about your day visiting NJ caves and restaurants in the comments section. You can find out more about the Marble Hill Natural Area on the website of Warren County, and you can visit the website of the Brass Rail for all the information on the menu. For another off-the-beaten-path Jersey adventure, check out this Pine Barrens restaurant on the opposite end of the state! Make sure to set out with all the road trip snacks you'll need before a long drive!
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