There are so many scenic roads in the Garden State. Old Mine Road is a personal favorite, traveling along the Delaware with spectacular mountain views. Another wonderful drive is the Pine Barrens Scenic Byway, which traverses diverse terrains and spectacular forests. However, there's another country road tucked away in New Jersey, right along the Hudson River, and the autumn colors are absolutely spectacular.
Henry Hudson Drive is a 7-mile stretch of pure scenic bliss, especially in the fall.
Running along the base of the Palisades Cliffs, this charming road is open to cars and bikes from April - November.
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Biking the road makes for a fun, picturesque challenge, but a drive is just as lovely.
Few places can match the vibrant shades of orange and red.
Don't forget to look up and take in the colors of the cliffs.
There's plenty to do along the way, like hike in the surrounding Palisades Interstate Park.
Stop at the Englewood or Alpine Boat Basins for waterfront views. You can even pack a picnic!
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I absolutely can't get enough of this road in the autumn, and I think you'll feel the same way. New York Magazine even named it one of the best bike rides in the tri-state area.
Bike or drive, it's truly a Jersey gem, something out-of-staters never seem to expect. We know better - the Garden State is simply stunning. Start your journey along Henry Hudson Drive just off River Road in Fort Lee and be sure to bring friends, there's nothing like sharing this spectacular sight. What's your favorite fall foliage drive in New Jersey?
When it comes to New Jersey's waterfronts, the Jersey Shore will always be tops for most people - especially during the summer. But I find that there are plenty of amazing spots well within the Garden State - in the form of some of the country's most stunning lakes. Ranging from massive recreation destinations to quiet retreats, and even some lakes with incredible backstories that take us all the way back to prehistory, our lakes are fascinating - and there's no better way to see them than on a scenic lake road trip in New Jersey. This seven-stop road trip will take you through central and northern New Jersey, spanning just under four hours of driving time. That means it's ideal for a long day of adventuring, or two days of exploring if you want to spend more time at each lakeside. Could any road trip be more perfect for the warm summer months?
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The seven lakes on this road trip are all within easy driving distance, and make an amazing trip for those who are in the mood for enjoying the water.
1. Carnegie Lake
Located near New Jersey's most famous university, Princeton, Carnegie Lake is frequently used by the University's rowing team. This reservoir might be privately owned, but it's open to the public for fishing, kayaking, and having a picnic on the lakeshore. Largemouth bass is the catch of the day here!
2. Farrington Lake
Created by a dam, this freshwater reservoir is located on the Lawrence Brook, a tributary of the Raritan River. It's a popular spot for boating and fishing, and the dam is a tourist attraction in its own right - it forms a beautiful small waterfall.
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3. Lake Hopatcong
This is undeniably the most famous lake in New Jersey, so we had to include it! This massive lake near Hopatcong is one of the state's top vacation destinations. It's wildly popular for water recreation, and is ringed by some of the most beautiful cabins and rentals in the area. This place books up early, because it's common for families to spend weeks here in the summer.
4. Tomahawk Lake Waterpark
The most affordable waterpark in New Jersey, this local destination is celebrating 72 years of slides and fun. Located on the banks of scenic Lake Tomahawk, it's a casual family destination that offers just the right amount of thrills for kids without turning the entire thing into a plastic wonderland that loses the area's natural beauty. There are 7 waterslides, plus a mini-golf course, horseshoes, and boat rentals.
5. Wawayanda Lake
The heart of Wawayanda State Park, this is one of the most peaceful parks in the state thanks to its dense, forested mountains surrounding the lake. It makes you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere! Swimming is allowed when lifeguards are on duty, and this is one of the best fishing spots in the state. It's also one of the best lakes around for camping during the summer.
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6. Swartswood Lake
The heart of Swartswood State Park, this massive lake is a top spot for anglers looking to reel in mighty trout. This is a natural glacial lake, and is part of a protected area. The crowds here get bigger in the summer, but it remains one of the best retreats in the state for those looking to enjoy some natural beauty.
7. Sunfish Pond
A lake with no swimming allowed? Sunfish Pond is the most unique lake in New Jersey - a glacial lake with an unusually high acidity level. This makes it unsafe for swimming, but gives the lake a unique crystal-blue color. There are some hardy fish species present, so fishing is allowed as is boating on boats with electric motors. This lake is accessed through Worthington State Forest's trail network, and is well worth the journey.
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Which spots on this lake road trip in New Jersey have you visited? What's your favorite lake in New Jersey? Let us know in the comments section! This road trip covers some of New Jersey's best spots, but there are plenty of other destinations like Atsion Lake in South Jersey that we highly recommend visiting. If you're looking for the perfect vehicle for your summer travels, check out RV Share for an RV rental near you!
New Jersey is pretty tiny, so we often leave the state for road trips. While that's all well and good, there are some pretty epic drives you can take without ever leaving our borders. We have well over a dozen different waterfalls to enjoy, each one unique. Though it would be fantastic to see them all, we wanted this trip to be doable in one day. This New Jersey waterfalls road trip features eight spectacular waterfalls that are some of the very best in the state. The trip itself takes 4.5 hours of driving time, so gas up the car, pack some snacks, and get ready to enjoy this waterfall road trip in New Jersey!
Your first stop on this New Jersey waterfalls road trip is near Dunnfield Creek in Worthington State Forest, part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. While you could easily spend a full day exploring this gorgeous area of New Jersey, or take a scenic drive through the area, you'll only have to hike about 3/4 of a mile to get to these falls from the nearest parking area. While you're here, you may want to hop on the Appalachian Trail, just to say you did.
2. Buttermilk Falls, Layton
About twenty miles north, in Stokes State Forest (also part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area), you'll find Buttermilk Falls. The falls are easily accessible from the parking lot and have a developed viewing area. Even better, since this is one of the most treasured waterfalls in New Jersey, you'll also find that this area is wonderfully developed for easy viewing; there's an interpretive display and wooden stairway to the top. If you're feeling adventurous, you can try to find even more iconic New Jersey waterfalls, like Silver Spray Falls, also known as Hidden Falls. They're located about half a mile from Buttermilk Falls on an unmarked trail.
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3. Boonton Falls, Boonton
Boonton Falls is located in Grace Lord Park, located below the man-made dam. Boonton Falls actually once powered the entire New Jersey Iron Company, which is pretty impressive, I think! The falls aren't too far from Main Street, so if you're looking for a scenic drive with waterfalls, this is a no-brainer! Afterwards, if you're hankering for lunch or a snack, you have several options that are all within walking distance of the park.
4. Ramapo Falls, Mahwah
A moderate four-mile hike at Ramapo Valley County Reservation will take you past a lovely lake, the Ramapo River, unique ruins, a scenic overlook and, of course, the unique Ramapo Falls. If you haven't already gotten food, this is a great picnic spot.
5. Great Falls, Paterson
The largest, most powerful falls in New Jersey could not be left off this list. While the area is intimidating to some, Great Falls is located inside a national park, separate from the rest of the city. There is plenty to explore here and you can get up close to the falls via a footbridge. This is certainly among the best waterfalls in New Jersey
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6. Hemlock Falls, Maplewood
You'll find Hemlock Falls at the South Mountain Reservation, located in South Orange. This park provides spectacular views of New York City and is adjacent to the fun-filled Turtle Back Zoo. Hemlock Falls is easy to find, and just under a mile from the Tulip Springs parking area.
7. High Bridge Falls/Lake Solitude Dam, High Bridge
Though High Bridge Falls isn't a natural waterfall, it's still a reader favorite. You've mentioned them many times in the comments! Built in 1909, this is the earliest example of a buttress dam. It is nationally recognized for its historical significance in the field of engineering.
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8. Hacklebarney Falls, Long Valley
Hacklebarney State Park is known for having numerous small falls along the Trout and Rhinehart brooks. Scenic and serene, this park is worth a walk-through. If you'd rather not hike much, you can find at least one waterfall within a mile from the parking area.
Have you been to any of the waterfalls on this New Jersey waterfalls road trip? Share your insights and tips in the comments, and let me know if you would take this trip!
Do you prefer your waterfall adventures to involve less hiking and more luxury? This resort in New Jersey is the best of both worlds. Or, take a scenic drive through New Jersey on one of these beautiful country roads: