Peep This: 3 Spots to View Foliage
You’ve stocked up on sweaters and vests from Garmany, and great new shoes and boots too. Now it’s time to hop in the car to check out the area’s best leaf peeping spots.
1. High Point State Park
The air is so much sweeter 1,803 feet above sea level, and the panoramic view isn’t bad either. From the base of the High Point Monument, built in 1928 to honor war veterans, gaze at the rolling valleys, gentle hills and verdant farmland. Here you’ll find hiking and walking trails, places to picnic, fish, boat—and even camp, if you’re so inclined (check out permit requirements).
2. Ramapo Valley Reservation
More than 4,000 acres await visitors at the Ramapo Valley Reservation. Follow the yellow-blaze Vista Loop trail and climb to the top of three lookout spots—Hawk Rock, Cactus Ledge and Ridge Overlook —for picturesque scenery of the vibrant foliage against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline. There are plenty of marked trails to explore too.
3. Wharton Forest
It’s the largest state forest in New Jersey, delivering unparalleled scenic views of fall foliage. Kayak along the Mullica River and immerse yourself in the colorful shades of autumn, or capture the reflection of the landscape in Lake Atsion. The forest is also home to the historic Batsto Village, an industrial center for iron and glass making in the 18th century, and offers a variety of activities including: star gazing, hiking and biking tours, war reenactments and more.