Located in West Milford, New Jersey, the Red Reservoir Loop at Apshawa Preserve is an excellent and scenic hike around the Kathleen M. Caren Reservoir (formerly the Butler Reservoir). The easy-to-moderate 4-mile hike climbs from the large parking area before circling the 40-acre reservoir, featuring many views of the reservoir, as well as two beaver…
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Paddling the Crystal-Clear Water of White Lake, New Jersey
White Lake in Hardwick, New Jersey, is one of the most unique places to kayak or paddleboard in the state. This is because of the incredibly clear water and white lakebed, which together create a lake that looks straight out of a tropical island. Not only is the water incredibly clear, but the surrounding land…
The Underwhelming Gristmill Trail at Swartswood State Park
Tucked away at the far southwestern end of Swartswood Lake lies the Gristmill Trail, a short 1.1-mile route at the lake’s southwestern edge. While most of the park’s routes are located near the main day-use area and the Swartswood Natural Area, the Gristmill Trail stands alone. For years, this secluded loop has intrigued me. In…
Hiking White Lake Natural Resource Area
White Lake Natural Resource Area is a popular park in Warren County’s Hardwick Township, centered around the lake of the same name. The park is best known for its crystal-clear lake and as a popular destination for kayakers and paddleboarders. Surrounding the lake is a network of well-marked and enjoyable trails that wind through scenic…
Kayaking Swartswood Lake
Swartswood Lake is New Jersey’s third-largest natural lake and its first state park. While often overlooked in favor of more popular boating destinations, it still offers an enjoyable experience, complete with a handful of quiet coves and an interesting shoreline. Interestingly, the shoreline is surprisingly developed considering this is New Jersey’s oldest state park. This…
Exploring the Family-Friendly Gnome Hollow Preserve
Located along a nondescript back road in Sussex County is the little-known Gnome Hollow Preserve. The namesake of this preserve is the collection of countless small gnomes hidden throughout the park landscape. This family-friendly destination features over a hundred small gnomes (plus a few gnome homes) tucked away on rock ledges, inside tree trunks, and…
Kayaking at New Jersey’s Deepest Natural Lake: Lake Aeroflex
Located in Kittatinny Valley State Park is the highly underrated Lake Aeroflex (also known as New Wawayanda Lake). While this is far from the largest lake in the state, it is actually the deepest natural lake, at 110 feet deep. Not only is this the deepest natural lake in the state, but it is also…
