Best Fall Foliage in Northern NJ
Fall has finally arrived, and the New Jersey landscape is gradually changing as the vibrant green leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The days are getting shorter, and fall always seems to come and go, so we want to help you make the most of the season with some of our favorite places to go leaf-peeping around Northern NJ. It is such a beautiful time of year to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors of the Garden State as the fall colors work their magic across our state. Keep reading for some of the best places to explore the fall foliage in Northern NJ this fall and when the best time to do so would be!
Essex County
South Mountain Reservation
South Mountain Reservation is a nature preserve tucked away in Essex County. Not only is it stunningly beautiful, but there's so much to do there: go hiking, rent swan boats, or even make your way over to the Turtle Back Zoo! If your main goal is leaf peeping, we recommend heading deeper into the woods to see Hemlock Falls. Surrounded by the changing leaves, the waterfall will look exceptionally breathtaking! To get to the falls, we recommend following this trail.
Hunterdon County
Lake Solitude Waterfall Observation Deck
This hidden gem is located in High Bridge, NJ, and is perfect for leaf peeping! Start by enjoying the peaceful flow of water at the historic dam, then take a short walk to Solitude House for a glimpse of a historic home and a quick history lesson. Afterward, head to the charming downtown area for lunch, coffee, or some shopping at local boutiques.
Morris County
Jockey Hollow in Morristown, NJ
We may be biased (okay, maybe more than a bit) since we're based in Morris County, but we think Morris County boasts some of the best leaf-peeping in New Jersey! Typically, mid-to-late October is the ideal time to catch breathtaking autumn leave, but you can check out the Fall Foliage Map to better understand when the leaves will be at their peak.
Jockey Hollow
The Jockey Hollow in Morristown is a stunning location any time of the year. A historic property, Jockey Hollow sits atop more than 1,200 acres of wooded land and, let's be frank, has so much more to offer than pretty scenery. Soldiers used it during the Revolutionary War, and some of its rich history can be seen even today with historic homes, soldier's barracks, historical re-enactments, hiking trails, and more. In addition to leaf-peeping and some great hiking, you'll also get to look back in time. Click here to learn more about Jockey Hollow and plan your next visit.
If you're feeling hungry afterward, go into town to one of our favorite bakeries for coffee and a delicious pastry at Kirshenbaum Baking Company. It's quickly become a go-to at 973 Party Rentals!
Passaic County
Long Pond Ironworks State Park
Located in Ringwood, Long Pond Ironworks is an absolute beauty in the fall! The area it is situated in is fantastic for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The Ironworks is a former iron mill where you can explore the grounds and see still-standing historic structures from a bygone era. There's also some great hiking and kayaking in this area. Just a few minutes away, at Monksville Reservoir, you can rent a kayak and enjoy the fall views on the water. Does it get any better than that?
Sussex County
High Point State Park
High Point Monument at High Point State Park
We saved the best for last! You can't go wrong visiting High Point State Park (or anywhere in Sussex County!) for leaf peeping. High Point State Park sits 1,803 feet above sea level, offering some fantastic views when you visit. Not only will you experience breathtaking scenery, but you can also visit the impressive High Point Monument, a war memorial dedicated to New Jersey's veterans. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy in the scenic picnic area, and if you're feeling adventurous, explore one of the many trails at the state park!
Have Fun!
Fall in Northern New Jersey is truly magical, with many incredible places to experience the vibrant autumn colors. Whether you're hiking through historic trails or enjoying a peaceful moment by the water, the sights of fall are sure to impress. So grab your camera, pack some snacks, and head out to explore these beautiful fall foliage spots before the season slips away! And if you need any rentals this fall, be sure to check out our rental catalogue or give us a call at (973) 250-8092—we’re here to help!
