Best attractions and places to see around Highland Lakes, a region in New Jersey known for its natural landscapes and outdoor activities. The area features several lakes, forests, and trails suitable for exploration. Visitors can find opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying scenic viewpoints. Highland Lakes offers a variety of natural and recreational sites to discover.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Highlight • Lake
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Highlight • MTB Park
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The section of Appalachian Trail stretching from Pochuck Mountain State Forest to Wawayanda Lake isn't one of the more mountainous sections of trail, but it is as entertaining as any other piece of path. There are a couple boardwalk sections and bridges through some wetlands along with some sections of dense forest.
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Right next to a parking area, this beautiful lake is in the heart of the park and is an ideal starting point for your adventure. From here, you can join many different trails (most are multiuse) that are perfect for exploring the area or simply circling the lake.
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Surprise Lake is a decently sized reservoir in Abraham Hewitt State Forest, but it's not nearly as big as its neighbor Greenwood Lake. Because it's a bit smaller, the lake sees fewer visitors than the larger reservoir and offers more privacy. This lake really sneaks up on you as you pop out of the trees.
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This spot offers awesome views of the Wawayanda Lake. The parking lot is just around the corner.
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A trail network on the grounds of a former wild-life amusement park that was operated by Warner Brothers. Your ride will be as exciting as the history of the park. Expect a technical and fun lap full of rocks!
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Wow, what a great bike park! Mountain Creek Resort offers plenty options of downhills with a great mix of flowy trails and extreme tricky descents. Hence, it is a perfect destination for anyone who loves mountain biking no matter if you are an beginner, intermediate or expert rider. More information can be found here: https://mountaincreek.com/bike-park/trail-report-hours/
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For families, Wawayanda Lake is an excellent choice, offering multiuse trails and a beach area. The Appalachian Trail Boardwalk and Wetlands also provides an accessible and enjoyable experience with its boardwalk sections through scenic wetlands.
Yes, for easier walks, consider the trails around Wawayanda Lake, which are mostly multiuse and suitable for various skill levels. The Appalachian Trail Boardwalk and Wetlands also features gentle boardwalk sections. You can find more easy routes in the Hiking around Highland Lakes guide, such as the Maple Grange Park Loop.
Parking is conveniently available right next to Wawayanda Lake, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the area's trails.
Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore the technical and rocky trails at Jungle Habitat Trails, located on the grounds of a former amusement park. For a dedicated bike park experience, Mountain Creek Bike Park offers a variety of flowy and challenging descents for all skill levels. More routes can be found in the MTB Trails around Highland Lakes guide.
For a more private experience, Surprise Lake in Abraham Hewitt State Forest sees fewer visitors compared to larger lakes in the region, offering a tranquil setting.
The region offers scenic views, particularly at Wawayanda Lake, where you can enjoy awesome lake vistas right from the parking area. Surprise Lake also provides beautiful forest and lake views as you emerge from the trees.
While the guide highlights lakes like Wawayanda Lake (which has a beach category) and Surprise Lake, it's always recommended to check local regulations and safety guidelines for swimming in natural bodies of water before entering.
Visitors appreciate the diverse outdoor opportunities, from the multiuse trails and scenic views at Wawayanda Lake to the challenging mountain biking at Jungle Habitat Trails. The natural beauty and the chance to explore lakes and forests are frequently highlighted.
Yes, the Appalachian Trail Boardwalk and Wetlands is part of the larger Appalachian Trail, offering sections for longer walks. For specific long-distance routes, you can explore options like the Wawayanda Jungle Trail or Cherry Ridge Loop in the Hiking around Highland Lakes guide.
The Highland Lakes region is characterized by its numerous lakes, dense forests, and diverse trail networks. You'll encounter natural monuments, wetlands with boardwalks, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the water, such as those at Surprise Lake and Wawayanda Lake.
Yes, the area offers several road cycling routes. You can find options like the Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop or the Mount Laurel Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop in the Road Cycling Routes around Highland Lakes guide.
When hiking in Highland Lakes, it's advisable to bring appropriate footwear for varied terrain, water, snacks, and navigation tools. Depending on the season, layers of clothing and insect repellent can also be beneficial, especially on trails through dense forests or wetlands.


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