New Jersey has dozens of scenic roads and 8 designated scenic byways. These byways are located across the state, from Sussex County to the Delaware Bay. You can traverse the Pinelands or drive through beautiful Monmouth County farmland but one of my favorites is the Palisades Scenic Byway.

While all our byways are breathtaking, the Palisades Scenic Byway is short and social-distance friendly.

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Some byways have attractions along the way that you’ll want to stop at. While that’s typically wonderful, we’re looking for something that’s all about the drive…

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And the views! There are numerous scenic overlooks on the 13-mile journey. The State Line Lookout is located on the highest point on the Palisades Cliffs (532 feet). Hiking trails are open for passive recreation.

Katherine Hala/Flickr

You’ll want to look out for birds, including hawks.

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And don’t forget to spend some time looking across into New York. The further north you go, the more suburban the scene becomes.

Flickr/Doug Kerr

Interested? The Byway consists of two main roads - the Palisades Interstate Parkway located atop the cliffs and Henry Hudson Drive, located between the Parkway and the Hudson River.

Doug Kerr/Flickr

It’s a lovely summer drive but I’d also recommend you take it again in the fall. The changing leaves along the river are absolutely magical.

Flickr/Doug Kerr

These roads were made for driving! The Palisades Interstate Parkway was designed to provide motorists with a scenic and aesthetic driving experience. Henry Hudson Drive was also designed as a pleasure drive, allowing passengers to enjoy exceptional views. The Palisades Scenic Byway will take you from the GWB to the Tappan Zee in the most peaceful way possible. There are cafes and seasonal outdoor eateries along the way but we’ll need to wait a bit for those. Learn more about the drive here.

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Famartin/Wikipedia

Katherine Hala/Flickr

Anita Gould/Flickr

Flickr/Doug Kerr

Doug Kerr/Flickr

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Address: State Line Lookout, Palisades Interstate Park Commission, State Line Lookout, Closter, NJ 07624, USA