Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chester, New Jersey and Rockaway, New Jersey

If you’re looking for an exciting and fun adventure, a road trip from Chester, New Jersey, to Rockaway, New Jersey, might be just what you need. With plenty of attractions, scenic views, and intriguing landmarks to visit, you won’t be bored for a second. The trip takes roughly 14 minutes and covers 6.6 miles each way. However, if you're in no hurry, there are enough fun things to do along the way to turn your road trip into an unforgettable experience.

1. Kayaking on Lake Hopatcong

Lake Hopatcong is the largest freshwater lake in New Jersey, and kayaking is one of the top things visitors can do. There are four recreation areas around the lake's shoreline, offering a variety of activities, including fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Bring your own kayak or rent one on-site, strap on a life jacket, and paddle away.

Interesting Fact: In the early 1900s, Lake Hopatcong was a major destination for vacationers and boasted the largest hotel in the world at the time, the Lake Hopatcong House.

2. Visit the Morris Canal in Landing

The Morris Canal Greenway is a 112-mile trail that follows the route of the Morris Canal, a 19th-century engineering feat. The canal was used to transport coal, iron, and other goods across the state of New Jersey from the Delaware River to the Hudson River. At the Landing section of the canal, visitors can take a walk on the Morris Canal Towpath and explore the remains of the canal.

Interesting Fact: The Morris Canal was active from the 1830s until 1924, but the canal was obsolete by the early 1900s due to the rise of railroads and automobiles.

3. Hike through Hacklebarney State Park

Hacklebarney State Park is a gem for nature lovers. The park is home to the Black River and offers hiking trails, fishing, and picnic areas. The hiking trails wind through the park, leading visitors through fields and along the river. The park is famous for its wild trout fishing, and many visitors bring their fishing gear to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing.

Interesting Fact: The park was once a popular picnic spot for factory workers coming from nearby factories in the late 19th century.

4. Discover the History of Waterloo Village

Waterloo Village is a restored 19th-century canal town that was once a thriving community. It includes a gristmill, a sawmill, a general store, a church, and a canal museum. Visitors can take a guided tour of the village and see demonstrations of blacksmithing, weaving, and other traditional trades. The village hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as Canal Day and the Pumpkin Festival.

Interesting Fact: Waterloo Village was used as a backdrop for the movie, "I am Legend," starring Will Smith.

5. Visit the Sightseeing Tower in Franklin

The Franklin mineral museum features the Franklin Mineral Souvenir Building, a five-story tower that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The tower is perched on what was once the site of the world's largest zinc mine. The site showcases a diverse collection of minerals and boasts the "Fluorescent Mineral Capital of the World, featuring over 350 fluorescent minerals.

Interesting Fact: The tower's construction materials are made of local materials, including zinc and dolostone.

In conclusion, the road trip from Chester, New Jersey, to Rockaway, New Jersey is a journey full of history, culture, and natural beauty. The five exciting locations listed above are just a small sample of the many things to see and explore on the road. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family or friends, a road trip is a great way to connect with others while discovering new places. We hope this article inspired you to pack your bags and hit the road!