There are actually several small towns in New Jersey completely surrounded by natural beauty, but today we're focusing on one of the tiniest. Secluded and serene, it's definitely a must-visit.
This is Walpack Township. As you can see from this aerial shot, it's not very urban.
The town has a population of just around 16 residents, down from 41 in 2000. Walpack Township once thrived, though many residents were forced to move when a dam was set to be built. The dam wasn't built, but the town was mostly left abandoned.
This is Walpack Center, the town's main drag.
It has mostly remained unchanged since 1965, when the town became part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The historic buildings date back to the mid-1800s and include a post office, church, former school used for storage, and six houses; none of these houses are inhabited. One of the homes does serve as a small museum, open to the public on Sundays from May - October.
Another attraction in this sleepy little town is the Van Campen Inn.
This Revolutionary War-era farmhouse was once the center of a self-sufficient plantation with farm animals and a blacksmith shop. The Walpack Historical Society hosts Van Campen Day here each October, complete with period actors, tours of the home and surrounding cemeteries and demonstrations of everything from apple cider making to spinning wool.
The town is also home to the one-of-a-kind Walpack Inn.
This rustic restaurant serves up spectacular seafood, some of the best bread around and offers a cabin for overnight stays. You can visit at: 7 National Park Service Road 615,
Buttermilk Falls can't be missed.
The 200' waterfall requires no hiking to get to, is handicap accessible and offers a designated viewing area. There is also an elevated platform visitors can climb to see the falls from above. While this photo is lovely, visit after a rainy day for a spectacular sight. The falls are located just off Mountain Road.
The town is bordered on the west by the Delaware River.
Enjoy around 10 miles of untouched natural beauty along the waterfront.
One very interesting feature of the town is that a tiny sliver of it lies on the Pennsylvania side of the river.
The town is also home to several small islands.
Much of Walpack Center lies in a valley.
So, it is surrounded by hills and mountains.
You'll also find creeks, streams, brooks, ponds and lakes.
Pictured is a wooden suspension bridge over Big Flat Brook.
Crater Lake is a gem.
Picturesque and pristine, enjoy an easy hike around the lake. The Crater Lake Trail is a manageable 1.6-mile loop.
A perfect way to spend a summer day, stroll along the main road, go for an enjoyable hike, stop at the museum and grab dinner at the wonderful Walpack Inn. For more info on the restaurant, click here. You'll score spectacular views of the surrounding nature in the restaurant's greenhouse dining area.
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