The highest paved road in New Jersey may not be quite as elevated as the highest paved road in Hawaii (at 11,120 feet above sea level) but it still offers some spectacular views. In fact, it’s actually accessible from a park road that’s aptly named Scenic Drive.
Monument Road comes in at around 1,800 feet above sea level.
Image/Google Maps
The road winds through the Kittatinny Mountains, accessible from Scenic Drive in High Point State Park.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
To get to Monument Road, you’ll exit Highway 23 (at 1,500 above sea level) and climb 300 feet through paved roads in the park.
Image/Google Maps
I’d access Monument Road by taking the main entrance road and continuing north, then veering right onto Scenic Drive, near the interpretive center.
Image/Google Maps
The entrance road will take you past beautiful Lake Marcia and a playground for the kids to stop at during the drive, before connecting to Scenic Drive.
Image/Google Maps
From Scenic Drive, you’ll pick up Monument Road, ending right at the base of High Point Monument.
Wikipedia/Ryan Jairam
From the base of the monument, you’ll enjoy views like this. Bring your quarters!
Flickr/Jason Jenkins
You can climb to the top of the 220-foot obelisk, in season, or you can enjoy one of the park’s trails (including a portion of the Appalachian Trail).
Flickr/Jason Jenkins
Visit now for spectacular swimming or in the fall for fantastic foliage!
Image/NJHiking.com
After you’ve finished marveling at the monument, head down Monument Road to Scenic Drive, towards the park exit.
Image/Google Maps
For a better idea of your drive, note the arrows in the aerial shot below.
Image/Google Maps
The drive up to Monument Road and back down takes only about 15 minutes, but you’ll surely stop along the way at the sandy shores of Lake Marcia and to stare out at three states (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania) from the base of High Point Monument. Be aware that a nominal fee is charged to access the park between Memorial Day and Labor Day. If you’re looking to get away for an entire day, check out these day trips, just over the New Jersey border.
Image/Google Maps
Flickr/Doug Kerr
Wikipedia/Ryan Jairam
Flickr/Jason Jenkins
Image/NJHiking.com
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