New Jersey offers some truly outlandish rock formations that reward hikers and adventurous drivers with spectacular scenery and geological wonders. Below are twelve exceptional sites worth exploring, each with unique natural features, demanding hikes, or challenging drives.
Jaw-Dropping New Jersey Rock Formations
Mount Tammany (Delaware Water Gap): Dramatic cliffs, panoramic valley views, and challenging terrain make this summit a favorite for adventurous hikers.
Sunfish Pond (Columbia, Warren County): A glacial lake surrounded by rocky ridges and boulder fields accessible via steep hiking trails.
Stairway to Heaven Trail (Wawayanda State Park): Stunning rocky ridges and outcrops lead to Pinwheel Vista, offering expansive views and rough uphill hikes.
Splitrock Reservoir (Boonton, Morris County): Rugged trails circle rock outcrops and cliffs overlooking misty ponds and shimmering reservoirs.
Wyanokie High Point (Ringwood, Passaic County): Rocky peaks, scrambles, and exposed ledges in the New Jersey Highlands demand endurance; offer skyline views.
Stonetown Circular (Wanaque, Passaic County): A loop featuring five mountain climbs and rocky viewpoints above lakes and forests.
Buttermilk Falls (Sussex County): Cascade tumbles over a rocky cliff with boulder-filled hiking routes up and around the waterfall.
Giant Stairs (Palisades Interstate Park): Nearly a mile of scrambling over massive, stacked boulders above the Hudson River.
Roaring Rock Outcrops (Hunterdon County): Creeks twist past wild rocky formations; short, steep trails deliver scenic rewards.
Carris Hill & Buck Mountain (Ringwood): Challenging ascents with panoramic views over rocky Highlands ridges.
South Mountain Fairy Trail (South Mountain Reservation): Features large moss-covered rocks and fairy-tale boulders along forested paths.
Surprise Lake Loop (Greenwood Lake): Technical scrambles among boulder fields and rocky overlooks with shimmering lake vistas.
How To Visit
Most formations are accessed via difficult hiking trails involving rocky terrain, steep ascents, and occasional scrambling over boulders or cliffs.
Some sites are more remote and may involve rough unpaved driving or long approaches by foot.
Prepare for challenging elevation changes and bring appropriate gear for scrambling and hiking.
Unique Geological Features
These locations are known for their striking rock outcrops, cliffs, glacial remnants, and boulder fields not commonly found elsewhere in New Jersey.
Seasonal changes, such as ice caves or moss growth, add to the other-worldly character of each site.
Exploring these 12 distinct formations offers a remarkable glimpse into New Jersey’s rugged and diverse geology, rewarding visitors with unforgettable vistas and adventures.
SOURCES
(https://wheninyourstate.com/utah/12-outlandish-utah-rock-formations-worth-every-mile-of-hikes-rough-driving/)
(https://nystateparks.blog/2018/07/31/the-ellenville-fault-ice-caves-a-national-natural-landmark/)(https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g28951-Activities-c61-t87-New_Jersey.html)
(https://www.njhiking.com/nj-challenging-hikes/)
(https://www.library.pima.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2020/09/Wonders-of-Americas-State-Parks-9788.pdf)
