Best Hikes of NJ - Wyanokie High Point

Finally the state parks in New Jersey are open and also the hiking trails.
Though, it is advised not to go out frequently, one hike a month is still feasible.

You can start early morning when the trails are not crowded and you might also see the sunrise.

So the next question that pops up is, which hikes are worth doing at this point of time. According to me, you should go for the ones which are known for their mesmerizing views throughout the year and also provide you with the serenity of the forest.

Well you don’t have to worry, as I will be providing with the list of the Best Hikes of NJ.
The first hike on the list and one of my favorite is - Wyanokie High Point.

This great trail is located in Norvin Green State Forest, New Jersey. It is an 8.8 mile loop trail and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and nature trips and is accessible year-round.

At the summit the 360 degree view is quite scenic. You can see patches of lake, valley and even the New York City skyline. On the way there are two waterfalls and as they are still gushing with water, it is a great site to watch.

The trail is very well marked and you get to see different types of terrains along the way.
But be well prepared, as there are patches of rocky terrains and the ones which require steep climb.
Also we confronted a snake which was passing just infront of us and my wife was about to step on it. It crawled very quickly into the bushes, may be because it saw by wife :P

Overall, it is a great workout with stunning views at the summit, and definitely a recommended trail to take especially during the spring times.

More Details:

Trail Directions -
https://www.njhiking.com/best-hikes-in-nj-norvin-green/

Difficult Level -
Moderate to strenuous

Best Time to go -
During Spring season, when the waterfalls are their peak and days are big.

Thins to carry -
1. Map of the trail
2. Hiking boots
3. Water
4. Food and Snacks
5. Mask
6. Gloves
7. Insect repellent for sure as they are lot of flies
8. First Aid kit and sunscreen

Parking -
The New Weis Center allows hikers to use in their outer gravel parking lot on Snake Den Road.
Check it out on Google Maps
Though on a weekend, parking spaces are quite less and you might have to park on the roadside.

Parking near the main building is reserved for guests attending programs and events at the Center. Parking off Snake Den Rd near the Highlands Natural Pool is reserved for Pool and Weis members. Parking is not allowed along Snake Den Road.

Distance -
Approx 8 miles loop trail

Time -
4.5- 5 hours (Includes lunch time, breaks and time at the waterfalls)
Add extra half hour if you are not taking lunch at the summit.

Activities in the Park -
Right now the only activities allowed are Hiking, Hunting and Fishing

Fees -
No Entry fee

Website -
https://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/norvin.html

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Scenic Drives in New Jersey - Old Mine Road

It has been more than 2 months now that we are locked inside our homes and waiting for the corona curve to flatten. It is still not recommended to go to parks or get to the beaches, and frankly we are also scared to do so, but the traveler, explorer and nature lover inside us, wants to get out amid the nature and refresh ourselves.

So here is some good news for the people of New Jersey.
There are some amazingly beautiful scenic drives in NJ, which you can experience from the comfort of your car. So through this new series, I will share some picturesque roads with you that will appease your mind and add some new colors to your otherwise stagnant life.

The first scenic road in my list that we drove through last weekend is Old Mine Road.
It is one of the oldest continuously used roads in the USA and most part of it is in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

The road is mostly single lane, with rocks on one side and river on the other. The speed varies from 15 to 25 miles per hour.
There are lot of historical buildings, old mills, farms and wide open grounds along the way, which look quite stunning.

The main USP of the trip are the spots in the vicinity of the river, where you can park the car in a small patch near the road and hike few steps downhill to witness the mesmerizing view of the river and surrounding mountains. Not to forget the wildlife which you might have never seen roaming so freely before. We encountered two groups of deer and one bear during our entire trip, which was just priceless. I couldn’t take pic of the bear as it went inside the forest quickly.

I would definitely suggest to take his day trip from the comfort of your car, for the peace of mind and refreshment of soul, during these hard times.

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