NEW JERSEY - The Garden State, is known for its beautiful coastline, pinelands, and proximity to major cities. However, tucked away in its northwestern corner, the state also boasts stunning natural wonders, including impressive waterfalls. While many charming cascades dot the landscape, one waterfall stands significantly above the rest, holding the title of the tallest waterfall in New Jersey: the magnificent Buttermilk Falls.
The Champion of Height: Buttermilk Falls
Located in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Sussex County, Buttermilk Falls is a breathtaking sight, especially after heavy rains.
- Height: While precise measurements can vary, Buttermilk Falls is widely recognized as the state's tallest, with water cascading down a series of dramatic rock faces for a total drop estimated to be around 200 feet.
- The Experience: The falls are unique in that they are immediately accessible. A parking area is located very close to the base of the falls, allowing visitors to witness the lower cascades with minimal effort. From there, a steep, challenging staircase and trail system allows adventurous hikers to climb alongside the tumbling water to the top, offering different perspectives along the way.
- Water Flow: It's important to note that Buttermilk Falls is fed by a relatively small stream. Its flow is highly dependent on recent weather. After a heavy rain, it is a powerful, roaring spectacle. During dry periods, the flow can be reduced to a delicate trickle.
A Close Contender: The Great Falls of the Passaic River
While Buttermilk Falls is the tallest, no discussion of major New Jersey waterfalls is complete without mentioning the Great Falls of the Passaic River in Paterson.
- Significance: This waterfall is second only to Niagara Falls east of the Mississippi River in terms of both volume and width. It is a massive, powerful waterfall with a drop of 77 feet.
- Historical Importance: The Great Falls is a National Natural Landmark and the centerpiece of the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. Its power was harnessed to fuel the industrial revolution in Paterson, which became one of America's first industrial cities.
Visiting Buttermilk Falls:
- Location: Walpack Township, Sussex County, within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to see Buttermilk Falls in its full glory is during the spring after snowmelt or immediately following a significant rainstorm. Autumn also offers a beautiful backdrop of fall foliage.
- What to Expect: Easy access to view the base of the falls, but a strenuous and steep climb if you wish to hike to the top. The trails can be wet and slippery.
For those seeking out New Jersey's most impressive cascade, Buttermilk Falls is the undisputed champion of height. Its nearly 200-foot drop through a forested ravine in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers a stunning display of nature's power and beauty. While the Great Falls in Paterson offers more power and volume, Buttermilk Falls provides the breathtaking vertical drop that makes it a must-see destination for waterfall enthusiasts in the Garden State.
Sources:
- National Park Service (Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area)
- New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) - Division of Parks and Forestry
- New York-New Jersey Trail Conference (for trail maps and information)
- Geological Survey of New Jersey
- Local hiking guides and New Jersey tourism websites
