New Jersey Fall Foliage 2024

The Northeast is famous for its beautiful fall foliage, and New Jersey is no exception. From Jersey Shore to the Highlands in the north, there's a lot to see in the state during the change of seasons. Red oak is New Jersey’s official state tree for a reason. Due to its abundance, the state dresses up in red and scarlet tones in the fall that make its numerous forests and parks look simply stunning.

Peak of Fall Colors Season

The seasonal trees transformation in New Jersey starts from late September to early October, depending on the weather. The peak fall foliage season is usually in mid- to late October. The trees can keep their vibrant colors well into November, weather permitting.

Best Places to See Fall Foliage

The Garden State boasts numerous picturesque locations to witness the beauty of fall foliage. From national state parks to hidden hiking spots, the area offers options for the most enthusiastic adventure seekers. You can visit Delaware Water Gap, with its numerous leisure attractions, or Washington Crossing State Park, where hikers can enjoy spectacular views. Sussex County and Cheesequake State Park are also some of the most popular destinations for leaf peeping.

Delaware Water Gap

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, covering 70,000 acres (28,327 ha), is one of the most scenic fall foliage spots in New Jersey. Along the Delaware River, you'll find thick forests of maples, birches, and hickories, turning gold and shades of red during fall. The park operates 24 hours a day, except for national holidays. Picnic areas, the Millbrook Village site, and trailhead parking spaces are open from sunrise until sunset. Pedestrian admission to the park is free, but owners of vehicles must either pay an amenity fee of $10 or purchase a season pass for $45.

Activities at the Park

You can rent a kayak and explore the Delaware River, enjoying vibrant colors in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. If you're a fan of cycling, consider taking the picturesque McDade Recreational Trail throughout the park. The route covers some of the most scenic spots of Delaware Water Gap, including White Pines and Schneider Farm trailheads.

Sussex County

To the north of the Delaware Water Gap, Sussex County is also famous for its fall foliage. Especially Montague area and High Point State Park, featuring panoramic views on higher elevations and lots of hiking trails. To the south, stop by the picturesque village of Hope and the beautiful Jenny Jump State Forest, which suits autumnal picnics perfectly and is surrounded by fall foliage.

High Point State Park

Situated on the border of Wantage Township and Montague Township, High Point State Park boasts a picturesque area of almost 15,412 acres (6,237 ha). With predominantly oak forests and gorgeous red maples, the park is perfect for getting scenic snapshots of the cozy season. The High Point Monument is the main landmark of the area, built to commemorate New Jersey's veterans. The park operates from 8 am until 8 pm and offers free admission. You might enjoy numerous recreation activities on the grounds, such as trout fishing, boating and hiking.

Washington Crossing State Park

If you are interested in history, drive to Washington Crossing State Park, where George Washington crossed the Delaware River back in 1776. The area looks beautiful in the fall, and scenic train rides are available nearby. Bull's Island offers more hiking and biking trails famous for its views of the scenic Delaware River. The park operates from 8 am until 7 pm with free admission. While at the park, you might enjoy staying the night at one of four campsites near the Phillips Farm, offering stunning vistas of the local river and golden trees.

Cheesequake State Park

Another wonderful place to take in fall foliage is Cheesequake State Park in Matawan, Middlesex County. This place offers 1,610 acres (650 ha) of charming marshlands and pine barrens crisscrossed with numerous boardwalks. So you can treat yourself to a short and easy hike or explore the area on a bicycle. The park also offers a fishing lake and a camping sites. Hooks Creek Lake, located within Cheesequake Park, is a great recreational spot, offering boating, swimming, kayaking, and fishing options. Fishing is especially popular in fall, with anglers flocking to the waters for a chance to catch catfish or largemouth bass. The grounds are open from 8 am until 8 pm with free admission.

Fall Foliage Train Rides in NJ

Several railroads in New Jersey operate themed fall train rides. Some offer a ride in the countryside, while others combine the leaf-peeping adventure with a visit to a pumpkin patch or a museum.

Delaware River Railroad Excursions

On weekends, Delaware River Railroad Excursions runs scenic train rides along the picturesque Delaware River, setting off in Phillipsburg, New Jersey. Throughout October, guests can enjoy train rides like The Great Pumpkin Train and The Warren County Winery Train. View autumnal landscapes along the river while stepping back in time on restored historic railroad equipment. Every train makes a stop at the Pumpkin Patch. Additional off-route options include stops at Ol' Susquehanna Mine for gemstone mining or a local corn maze.

The Great Pumpkin Train operates from September 30th until October 29th at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm, while the Warren County Winery Train functions from May 4th until October 27th at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm. The tickets for the Great Pumpkin Train cost $20 for adults and $14 for children. The Winery Train requires a $45 pass.

Black River & Western Railroad

The Black River & Western Railroad is home to New Jersey's oldest operating steam locomotive. Since the early 1960s, this organization has been preserving railroad history and offering the opportunity to experience old-fashioned steam railroading in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. The railroad runs scenic train rides between Flemington and Ringoes. On select days in October, Black River Railroad takes visitors to Pumpkin Junction at Everitt Farms in Ringoes. The trips last two hours in total and take the passengers through tree-lined passageways with vibrant fall colors. A scenic fall foliage train ride and pumpkin picking—what could be a better family weekend?

The Pumpkin Train departs from Flemington Station in Flemington. The tickets for the trip cost $21 for adults and $15 for children between the ages of 3 and 11. Children under 3 can ride the train for free. The ticket grants you access to the corn maze, numerous games and music, and of course, pumpkin picking.

Pine Creek Railroad

Pine Creek Railroad, operated by the New Jersey Museum of Transportation, is one of the oldest operating narrow gauge railway sections in the US. It offers scenic 15-minute train rides on weekends. Some visitors expect to see a typical museum—a building full of artifacts, but it's a "working museum" where all the facilities and the train itself are functioning. In the fall, Pine Creek Railroad operates special train rides. Tickets to regular rides cost $6 per person and $2 for children under three. Train rides take place regularly from 11 am until 4 pm on weekends.