Four Places to See Stunning Fall Foliage in Northern New Jersey

Goat Hill Overlook

This overlook can be accessed by a short (about half a mile) hike through the woods that turns quite colorful in the fall. The gentle incline makes it an easy hike for families with a lovely view for a payoff. From the overlook, the Delaware River can be seen, as well as the town of New Hope across the border in Pennsylvania.

The overlook is located in Goat Hill Preserve, a separate parcel of land that is part of Washington Crossing Historic Park in Hunterdon County. It is free and open to the general public during daylight hours. Dogs can be brought on a leash.

Kittatinny Valley State Park

This park located in Andover, New Jersey, includes glacial lakes, limestone outcroppings, and former railroad lines converted into trails. It can be used for fishing, biking, horse back riding and more. Walk the path just past the Visitor’s Center to enjoy the lake with the colors of fall reflected in it’s clear waters. Stay to see the sunset over the Eastern corner of the lake. You may also enjoy seeing some planes flying low as the park includes it’s own small airfield.  

The park is free during non-peak season (a daily fee is charged per vehicle during the summer months) and open to the public during daylight hours.

Highlands Trail Overlook at Allamuchy

This is a beautiful overlook in Allamuchy Mountain State Park in Sussex County, New Jersey. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead, which is across the street from Historic Waterloo Village (another lovely spot to explore.) The hike up is a little over a mile and a half, but includes a good bit of elevation and a bit of rock scrambling, making it more challenging. But the payoff is a beautiful open overlook where you can enjoy Waterloo Lakes and a riot of color in the fall.

If you’re feeling spooky, there’s a creepy tunnel in the woods across the street from the trailhead, too! The park features many other trails, rock climbing, fishing and more.

The Deserted Village at Watchung Reservation

This is a very large nature preserve located in Union County, New Jersey, with many different sections to explore. At this time of year, the Deserted Village of Feltville is a great place to visit for some fall foliage and spooky fun. Historic buildings and cemeteries are decorated for the season, and fall foliage surrounds the dilapidated remains of the 19th century village.

Other areas of the park include a 6 mile history trail, a Trailside Nature and Science Center, Lake Surprise, and more. The reserve is free and open to the public during daylight hours.