This Waterfall Road Trip Through New Jersey Is A Must

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!

For directions, view the official map.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it:

1. Dunnfield Creek Falls, Columbia

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.

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

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.

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:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-jersey/nj-roads-scenic-drives/