Research has shown that exposure to nature leads to better mood, sleep, cognitive function, and overall physiological health. Lucky for residents of Sussex County, New Jersey, spending time in the great outdoors is easy because of the area’s abundance of state parks, overlooks, forests, and trails.
Here’s a list of natural attractions in Sussex County that you wouldn’t want to miss:
HIGH POINT STATE PARK
Aptly named High Point, the park’s summit is the highest elevation point in the state of New Jersey. At 1,803 ft. above sea level, it boasts panoramic views of the lush woods, rich farmland, and rolling hills of the Skylands Region and beyond.
Go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing on the state park’s over 50 miles of trails. Fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking at the Sawmill and Steenykill lakes are also popular activities in this over 15,000-acre slice of scenic landscape that sits between Sussex County’s Wantage and Montague Townships.
WALLKILL RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Since 1990, this riverside wildlife refuge has been the home of hundreds of species of birds, fishes, and endangered species in Sussex County. It aims to conserve and promote local biodiversity while supporting wildlife-dependent research and recreation.
The Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge is perfect for bird and wildlife observation, nature photography, and hikes along the Appalachian Trail. An autumn walk beside its towering red maples or a lazy canoe ride on the river are great ways to explore the spectacular landscape.
ALLAMUCHY MOUNTAIN STATE PARK
With a natural area spanning 2,440 acres, this state park is a haven of mixed oak and hardwood forests, open fields, winding trails, and calm lakes. Beyond hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing, rock climbing is a popular activity in this popular outdoor destination in northwestern New Jersey.
Trout fishing in the Musconetcong River or exploring the historic Waterloo Village on the banks of the Morris Canal is a must when visiting the Allamuchy Mountain State Park.
STOKES STATE FOREST
Tranquil and breathtaking, it’s easy to see why hikers, campers, and photographers keep returning to Stokes State Forest. Nestled between Sandyston, Montague, and Frankford in Sussex County, this evergreen forest has more than 63 miles of trails leading to the Appalachian Trail, Sunrise Mountain, Tillman’s Ravine, and Stepping Stones Falls.
Many visit the Stokes State Forest to hunt, observe birds and wildlife, and ride a boat, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard at Lake Ocquittunk. Skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are popular recreational activities during the winter.
KITTATINNY VALLEY STATE PARK
White-tailed deer, beavers, muskrats, wild turkeys, and songbirds call this state park home. Apart from the variety of wildlife, glacial lakes and limestone outcroppings are unmissable features of the Kittatinny Valley.
Go horseback riding or hiking at the Paulinskill Valley Trail or the Sussex Branch Trail, which are old railroad tracks that were converted into multi-use trails. Come wintertime, you can go snowshoeing, dog sledding, and cross-country skiing.
These picturesque landscapes are just some of the many attractions in the area. To learn what it’s like living in the heart of nature in Sussex County, NJ, get in touch with me, Frank DeZao. Call me at 201.953.9376 or send me an email here to begin exploring your real estate options in New Jersey.