Best Fall Drives

Crystal Springs Resort is conveniently located near one of the most scenic stretches of road on the East Coast. Locals and tourists alike have been driving from Lake Mohawk on Route 517 near Sparta all the way to the small town of Sussex. Take Route 517 north through beautiful Ogdensburg then hook up with NJ-23, which passes through Franklin and Hamburg. You’ll breeze past colorful rolling hills, quiet villages, and fertile farmland. Many call this trip the “The Wallkill” because it mostly follows the scenic Wallkill River. No matter which route you take, the drive from New York City to Crystal Springs offers picturesque valley vistas.

Mountaintop Hiking Trails

You’re only steps from a new hiking adventure when you stay at the Crystal Springs Resort. There are miles of secluded hiking trails that meander through valley floors, ridgelines, and steep hillsides. We offer guided nature hikes for beginners, intermediates, and seasoned veterans. The Pochuck Boardwalk is a must hike for any visitors from the greater New York City area. This breathtaking boardwalk winds through the vast New Jersey wilderness in the middle of a prehistoric lake.

Cruiser Bicycle Rides

A smooth, nostalgic way to experience the scenic beauty that surrounds the Grand Cascades Lodge is a two-hour cruiser bicycle ride. Explore the vast wilderness on many of our paved bike trails on a brand new cruiser. Cruiser rentals come with a backpack, bottle of water, complimentary helmets, and an area map.

Local Farms

Visit one of the many local farms, vineyards, or orchards for an afternoon of pumpkin patches, apple picking, and hayrides. Pennings in nearby Warwick has a farmers market, petting zoo, cidery, live music, and apple picking. Heaven Hill Farm is home to the Great Pumpkin Festival, a multi-week harvest celebration with hayrides, a corn maze, carnival rides, pig races, pony rides, and pumpkin picking. Heaven Hill is a short nine-mile northerly trek from Crystal Springs Resort. If you’re serious about apple picking and leaf peeping, we recommend Ochs Orchard and Masker Orchards. Both of these Warwick farms have deliciously crisp apples and stunning valley and mountain views.

A New York City Escape

There’s no better excuse for an escape from the New York City madness than a family getaway in beautiful autumn. In a matter of weeks, the leaves will begin to change color, the temperatures will dip to perfect levels, and the area will come alive with harvest and Halloween festivities. Give your family the weekend getaway they deserve by dialing:  !