Cows, mountains, and whitewater rafting ... in New Jersey

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

See recent posts by Carl Unger

New Jersey’s Skylands region is home to a side of the state rarely seen, and represents what is left of a long and proud rural tradition (you heard me correctly—the Garden State did earn its nickname, after all). Warren County is a great place to base your stay (the towns of Blairstown and Hope are good options), with a rolling patchwork landscape of farms, woodlands, and open meadows. To the west lies the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, with more than enough wilderness and water to keep outdoors enthusiasts busy.

From July 27 to August 2, the Warren County Farmers’ Fair in Harmony Township is the place to be for a firsthand taste of the area’s agricultural industry. All the staple activities are here (tractor pulls, livestock shows, 4-H classes and demonstrations), but the fair has the added appeal of the Hot Air Balloon Festival—and the opportunity to go up for a ride.

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area winds along the New Jersey and Pennsylvania shores of the Delaware River. Hiking (including a section of the Appalachian Trail), biking, camping, and all varieties of water activities can be found within the park’s 67,000 acres. Warren County also boasts a number of state parks and forests, which, while smaller, offer peace and quiet.

Other attractions include the Land of Make Believe, a family-oriented amusement park, pick-your-own picnicking at one of the numerous area farms, winery tours, and even a Can-Am league baseball game.

To plan your trip, start with the Skylands of New Jersey Tourism Council and the Warren County CVB.

The next installment of our 50 Stateside Escapes series publishes tomorrow, featuring a trip to Georgia’s Pine Mountain.

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