New Jersey boasts seven spectacular natural wonders, including glacial lakes, high points, dramatic cliffs, and iconic shorelines.
Did you know that New Jersey has an unofficial list of Natural Wonders? In the late 1970s, conservationist and Assemblyman Richard Van Wagner introduced a bill to designate and protect the natural wonders in New Jersey listed below. The State Assembly never took the bill to vote, but nature lovers still talk about the list and appreciate these 7 wonders of New Jersey. Here’s Assemblyman Van Wagner’s list of wonders — we agree that they are spectacular.
1. Sunfish Pond
Sunfish Pond is a glacial lake along the Appalachian Trail, in the Water Gap area. It’s the northernmost one on the AT, and it’s oddly acidic. In fact, it’s so acidic, that there are only a few species of fish that can survive. It’s not safe for swimming, and it was one of the first wonders of New Jersey to be the focus of conservation groups.
2. High Point
High Point is the, well, highest point in the state. It’s located along the Kittatinny Ridge close to the border of New York and Pennsylvania in the northwestern corner of New Jersey. It’s now a state park, and there’s a large monument marking the summit.
3. The Palisades
The Palisades are a dramatic geologic feature along the Hudson River, stretching for about 20 miles and standing between 300 and 600 feet high. These sheer basalt cliffs are a National Natural Landmark and can easily be experienced at Palisades Interstate Park.
4. The Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap area of New Jersey and Pennsylvania is a National Recreation Area and is protected by the National Park Service. This unique formation was created over millions of years, as the Delaware River carved through the ridge between the two states.
5. The Pinelands
The Pinelands, or Pine Barrens, is a one-of-a-kind ecosystem in southern New Jersey. It spans 1.1 million acres — or almost a quarter of the state’s entire land. There is a huge variety of wildlife here, unique pygmy pines, and one of the largest, most pristine natural aquifers in the country.
6. The Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in New Jersey. Our coastline features expansive beaches along the outer coastal plain, with multiple barrier islands, massive dune systems, and a habitat for thousands of species.
7. Great Falls
The 77-foot Paterson Great Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in New Jersey, and it was a significant part of the early industrialization of northern New Jersey. This remarkable, powerful cascade is a National Natural Landmark and also a National Park Site, having been designated as Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in 2009. If you are looking for things to do in New Jersey, a trip to these beautiful falls is high on our list.
Who knew there were so many unique natural wonders in New Jersey? How many of the 7 wonders of New Jersey have you visited? It’s just one reason we love exploring and learning all that we can about the Garden State.
But wait, there’s more! Not only do you get the Jersey Shore, but we’ll throw in a Buttermilk Falls and a Blue Hole – check out more natural areas in New Jersey that you can see for free.