New jersey fall foliage is peaking and here are the best spots to see it

New Jersey Fall Foliage is Peaking and Here are the Best Spots to See it

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1 min read
October 26, 2024

If you’re ready to dive into New Jersey’s peak fall foliage, now is the time! Here are some top spots to get the full autumn experience, whether you’re looking for scenic drives, easy hikes, or historic vibes.

1. High Point State Park
In Sussex County, High Point State Park boasts the state’s highest peak, giving you panoramic views of orange, red, and gold from over 1,800 feet above sea level. While you’re there, grab a cider donut or hike up Sunrise Mountain for a killer morning view.

2. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
This spot along the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border is a classic for a reason. Take a scenic drive on Old Mine Road or hike up Mount Tammany for sweeping views of the vibrant foliage. If you’re up for more adventure, paddling the Delaware River offers a unique way to soak in the colors.

3. Stokes State Forest
If hiking through vivid fall landscapes is your thing, Stokes State Forest won’t disappoint. Check out Stepping Stone Falls or explore the 63 miles of trails that include sections of the Appalachian Trail. The fiery reds and bright oranges are unforgettable this time of year.

4. Duke Farms
Located in Hillsborough, Duke Farms is perfect if you want a mix of scenery and educational fun. You’ll find over 2,700 acres of trails, plus events like an Autumn Dendrology Workshop where you can get geeky about the 113 tree species thriving on-site.

5. Garret Mountain Reservation
Overlooking Paterson, Garret Mountain offers beautiful views of the city below and colorful fall foliage stretching across Passaic County. This 568-acre reserve is perfect for hikes, picnics, or just snapping that must-have photo with Lambert Castle in the background. It’s a fantastic place to see the vibrant hues of autumn without venturing far from city life.

6. Ringwood State Park
This park, home to the New Jersey Botanical Garden, is a visual feast in autumn. Explore the gardens and trails, rent a canoe on Shepherd Lake, or visit the 51-room Ringwood Manor to dive into a bit of history while enjoying the vibrant colors.

7. Wharton State Forest
This massive forest in South Jersey is a gem for anyone looking to get off the beaten path. It’s home to Batsto Village, a historic site surrounded by dense woods and vivid foliage. With 22 trails to choose from, you can hike, bike, or even paddle through the changing leaves.

New Jersey’s fall foliage season peaks in late October, so don’t miss out! Grab a cozy sweater, plan your route, and get ready to Instagram some serious fall vibes.

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

As founder of the publication, Stilton leads editorial strategy, investigative reporting, and daily newsroom operations while overseeing coverage that reaches millions of readers annually.

With extensive experience covering municipal government, county government, state legislatures, elections, law enforcement, emergency management, and public records, Stilton specializes in translating complex government actions into clear, factual reporting. His work frequently relies on primary source documents, including court filings, legislation, public meeting records, election finance disclosures, government databases, police reports, and Freedom of Information and Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests. He has reported extensively on local government accountability, taxpayer spending, campaign finance, public corruption investigations, infrastructure, public safety, and the policies affecting New Jersey residents.

Under Stilton's editorial leadership, Shore News Network has grown into one of New Jersey's largest independent digital news organizations, publishing thousands of original news articles each year while providing breaking news coverage, investigative reporting, and analysis across state and local government. The publication's reporting is routinely sourced from official government agencies, public officials, court records, and firsthand documentation, with a commitment to transparency, attribution, corrections when warranted, and clearly distinguishing factual reporting from opinion.

Stilton's journalism follows established newsroom standards emphasizing accuracy, verification, fairness, and accountability. Every effort is made to verify information through official records and multiple reliable sources before publication. His reporting is intended to provide readers with timely, well-documented information that helps them understand the issues affecting their communities, while maintaining editorial independence from political parties, government agencies, advocacy organizations, and commercial interests.

Readers can submit story tips, corrections, public records, or media inquiries through the official Shore News Network website or its verified social media channels. Shore News Network welcomes corrections and updates when new information becomes available as part of its ongoing commitment to accurate and transparent journalism.

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