PHOTOS: Basking Ridge Among Top N.J. Foliage Spots

New Jersey fall foliage features brilliant hues and spectacular scenery. The changing colors of leaves in autumn is one of nature’s most beloved rites of passage–and makes for one of the most popular and inexpensive getaways for families. As part of LeafQuest–a MapQuest series helping leaf peepers across North America find easy and rewarding destinations–here are three recommended spots for viewing New Jersey fall foliage.—Saira Bajwa 

Lambertville

Did Washington sleep here? You bet. The idyllic town of Lambertville has historical significance for those with an interest in Revolutionary War-era. General Washington made the then-named Holcombe farm his headquarters, and famously crossed the Delaware River just downstream from here. Lambertville–now a major hub on the antique circuit–and its Pennsylvania partner New Hope are connected by bridge, on opposite sides of the Delaware, a gorgeous setting that, in autumn, stages to a spectacular show of crimson and gold. Every fall, Lambertville also hosts a house tour of all the historic homes in the area. To take in the vistas from a different perspective, hop on a hot-air balloon ride or channel your inner Washington, and cross the river by canoe or kayak. Start your quest at the Lambertville Historical Society museum.

The Lambertville Historical Society Museum, 60 Bridge St., Lambertville, NJ 08530 | Get Directions

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Though its name conjures images of bayou country, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, with its entrance in Basking Ridge, comprises 7,768 acres of varied New Jersey habitats. The meadows, woods and marshes within the park are glorious in fall, and host an impressive array of wildlife, including mink, skunk, red fox, the federally endangered Indiana bat and 222 species of bird, including most impressively the great blue heron. Next door to the Swamp is the Raptor Trust, a rehabilitation facility/zoo for injured birds of prey. Their impressive collection includes bald eagles, turkey vultures and a host of owls and hawks. For those in town, or who are visiting, it's also a treat to see the trees in Basking Ridge center, or along such byways as Cross Road.

241 Pleasant Plains Road, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 | Get Directions

Another way to get there is to simply turn onto Lord Stirling Road off  South Maple Avenue, and follow onto the unpaved section past the Somerset County Environmental Education Center.

High Point State Park

Superlatives abound for High Point State Park. As New Jersey's oldest state park, it also contains the Garden State's highest point–at 1,803 feet. (The park marks the latter distinction with the High Point Monument.) It's also one of the finest places in the state for viewing fall foliage–leaf lovers describe High Point as a "leaf peeper's paradise." Look for oaks, chestnuts and American beech trees to provide most of the foliage muscle. And drive or hike to the High Point Monument for a panoramic view of the glories of autumn across three states, as well as a bird's-eye view of the gorgeous Delaware River.

Did we miss a New Jersey fall foliage spot? You can add your own photos from the spots and a description of why they are great by clicking the link below.