Here are several routes and regions in NJ that are widely loved by riders. You can use them as full “destinations ride” (i.e. day trips) or combine segments into a larger loop.
Delaware River / Hawk’s Nest / Route 97
Why ride it:This stretch offers epic river views and twisting roads along the Delaware River. The Hawk’s Nest overlook is a highlight.
Route idea:
Start near Franklin, NJ (off NJ-23), cross into New York at Carpenter’s Point, and follow Route 97 along the river valley. You’ll see rolling mountains, river valleys, and eventually come to Roebling’s Delaware Aqueduct (an old suspension bridge).
Highlights/photo spots:
- Hawk’s Nest overlooks
- River valley vistas
- The aqueduct and historical landmarks along Old Mine Road segment
- Forested curves and light/shadow play
Notes/cautions:
- Early morning or weekday rides will give you more solitude
- Some segments can be narrow, winding, and with sharp curves — ride cautiously
- Traffic can pick up near popular overlooks
Route 519 / Phillipsburg → High Point (Skylands Region)
Why ride it:
This is one of the more classic NJ “hill country” rides, with rolling terrain, rural farmland, forests, and great elevation changes as you approach High Point State Park.
Route idea:
Begin in Phillipsburg (or somewhere along Route 22), follow 519 north through Newton, then connect toward High Point via short segments of Route 23 or local roads.
Highlights/photo stops:
- Scenic farmland and forest transitions
- Views from High Point (highest point in NJ)
- Peaceful rural back roads
- Fall foliage is especially striking
Tips:
- Riders often praise this as one of their go-to NJ twisty roads
- The road is twisty but generally well maintained
- Some segments might lack services (gas, food) — plan ahead
Old Mine Road / Delaware Water Gap Area
Why ride it:
Old Mine Road is historic, scenic, and intimate. It runs through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, hugging the river and passing forests, cliffs, and old-world charm.
It’s often cited as “perhaps the best motorcycle road in New Jersey” thanks to its blend of scenery, history, and quiet turns.
Route idea:
Access Old Mine Road via Interstate 80 (the last exit before crossing the Delaware River) or via local county roads (e.g. 521, 206). Ride along the river corridor for 30–40 miles, enjoying the forested terrain and river views.
Highlights:
- Forested mountainsides and river views
- Historical buildings (e.g. Isaac Van Campen Inn)
- Scenic bridges, parks, picnic areas
- Quiet stretches with minimal development
Things to watch out for:
- Curves can be deceptively tight
- Some parts may have debris or fallen leaves/branches — especially after storms
- Be cautious of wildlife crossing
New Jersey Skyline Drive (Northern NJ / Skylands Region)
Why ride it:This is a 20-25 mile stretch of winding, forested roads through northern New Jersey’s mountainous woodlands. It offers roller-coaster terrain and a continuously scenic ride.
Route idea:
Wind through parts of West Milford, Ringwood State Park, and the surrounding highlands. Connect local roads to form a continuous route.
Photo/stop suggestions:
- Stop in small towns (e.g. Ringwood) for local character
- Tree canopy tunnel shots
- Sunlight filtering through leaves
- Road curvature and the “feel” of the road
Central Jersey / Navesink / Shore Loop
Why ride it:If you want a mix of inland and coastal scenery, this route gives you river crossings, winding back roads, and views near the shore.
Route idea:
One version is the “Central Jersey Tour” (∼29 miles) which starts around Old Bridge and loops through Holmdel, Middletown, Red Hill Road, Navesink River Road, and out near Ocean Blvd with coastline views.
You can also combine Navesink / Rumson / Sandy Hook for a scenic shore-river loop.
Highlights:
- Local towns with character
- Windy River roads (Navesink)
- Views of estuaries, river bridges
- Shoreline panoramas
Tabernacle Loop / Pine Barrens Region
Why ride it:For a more relaxed ride with fewer steep grades, the Tabernacle Loop (around 50 miles) takes you through parts of the Pine Barrens, cranberry bogs, farms, and stretches of quiet road.
Route idea:
Use Routes 206, 563, 542 in the southern New Jersey rural region. The terrain is flatter, but the scenic peace and rural atmosphere are strong.
Photo/stop ideas:
- Nearby state forest or woodland edges
- Bog/marsh landscapes
- Open skies
- Rustic roads and local farms
Conclusion: New Jersey might be small, but it packs a surprising variety of riding experiences — from twisting mountain roads and river overlooks to quiet pine forests and shoreline loops. Whether you’re carving through the curves of Old Mine Road, watching the sunset from Hawk’s Nest, or coasting past cranberry bogs in the Pine Barrens, there’s something for every kind of rider.
The best part? You don’t need to cross state lines to find incredible views and open roads. Every mile in Jersey has a story — from the colonial paths of the north to the peaceful farm roads of the south.
So next time the weather’s right, gear up, gas up, and explore one of these routes. Don’t forget your camera (or GoPro) — the scenery here deserves more than just a quick glance in your rearview mirror.
Ride safe, take it easy on the curves, and remember: it’s not always about the destination — it’s about the ride.
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