Attractions and Places To See around Crandon Lakes - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see around Crandon Lakes, an unincorporated community in Sussex County, New Jersey, are characterized by natural beauty and outdoor activities. The region features the rolling hills of the New Jersey Highlands, dense forests, and river valleys like the Delaware Water Gap. It serves as a gateway to broader regional attractions, offering a variety of natural features and historical sites.
Best attractions and places to see around Crandon Lakes
- The most popular attractions is Buttermilk Falls…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Normanook Lookout Tower
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Buttermilk Falls
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Dingmans Ferry Bridge
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Since 1735, Andrew Dingman operated a ferry across the Delaware River here. Pioneers used this important river crossing to travel west for over a century.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dingman%27s_Ferry_Bridge
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Hemlock Pond
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Blue Mountain Lake Trail
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On the Appalachian Trail towards Sunrise Mountain – or vice versa – you'll automatically pass the Culver Fire Tower. Beautifully restored, the Culver Fire Tower (in Stokes State Forest, New Jersey) has a long history; the current Aermotor steel tower dates from 1933, replacing an older steel tower from 1918. The first (wooden) tower was built as early as 1908. From the top, you have a 360° view. Those who want to descend from the tower towards Stony Lake can choose the "green route," which is generally easy with beautiful rock sections. However, if the rock isn't icy in winter, it can be slippery, and small crampons are often a lifesaver. It's definitely worth it!
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Buttermilk Falls is the tallest waterfall in New Jersey. If you want to park your bike at the bottom of the falls, you can climb up to the top and to take in the vistas from the viewing platform.
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You'll have to leave your bike behind momentarily, but it's totally worth the time to climb the steps up the tower. You get great views of the surrounding lakes, hills, and valleys.
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Dingmans Ferry Bridge is a spectacle and one of the last remaining privately-owned toll bridges in America. This bridge is a popular picture spot and worth stopping for on your ride. If you ride across on your bike, there is no fee.
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The 'Blue Mountain Lake Trail' is a circular hike of approximately 9.5 km in the 'Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area' east of the 'Delaware River' in New Jersey. From the parking lot south of the lake there are several forest paths or paths north past 'Blue Mountain Lake' to Hemlok Pond and back again. The origin of the hiking trails is a former road network for a planned housing development that was never realized. https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/blue-mountain-lake-trail.htm
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Hemlock Pond is part of the lake landscape in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. From the parking lot at Crater Lake you walk approximately 1 km to the pristine lake in a lush forest of hemlock firs. The Hemlock Pond Trail leads approximately 3 km around the lake. There are several options for taking a longer circular hike, such as walking along the 'Blue Mountain Lake Trail', the 'Crater Lake Trail' or even a section of the well-known 'Appalachian National Scenic Trail'. https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/hemlock-pond-trail.htm
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'Dingmans Ferry Bridge' is a toll bridge between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Since 1735, Andrew Dingman operated a ferry across the Delaware River here. Pioneers used this important river crossing to travel west for over a century. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dingman%27s_Ferry_Bridge
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This trail climbs to the top of Buttermilk Falls, a long, tumbling cascade that happens to be one of the tallest waterfalls in the state of New Jersey. Keep in mind, no swimming or wading is permitted in the waterfall itself, or within 50 feet upstream.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Crandon Lakes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Buttermilk Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Jersey, or enjoy the pristine waters of Hemlock Pond, nestled within a lush forest of hemlock firs. Crater Lake is also notable for its cool, clear waters and views of hemlock forests, shaped by the prehistoric Wisconsin Glacier.
Are there any historical landmarks near Crandon Lakes?
Yes, the Dingmans Ferry Bridge is a significant historical landmark. This toll bridge between Pennsylvania and New Jersey has been in operation since 1735, marking an important historical river crossing.
Where can I find the best panoramic views of the area?
For stunning panoramic views over the surrounding hills and lakes, visit Normanook Lookout Tower. From the top, you can enjoy a 360° view of the landscape.
What hiking opportunities are available around Crandon Lakes?
The area offers extensive hiking trails, particularly within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Popular options include the Blue Mountain Lake Trail, a circular hike of approximately 9.5 km, and the Hemlock Pond Trail. Sections of the renowned Appalachian National Scenic Trail are also accessible. For more options, check out the easy hikes around Crandon Lakes.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for families?
Yes, the Lower Hornbecks Creek Trail is an easy 2.3-mile trail known for its scenic waterfalls, making it a great option for families. The Hemlock Pond Trail also offers a relatively easy walk around the pristine lake.
What cycling routes are available near Crandon Lakes attractions?
There are several road cycling routes in the vicinity. You can explore options like the 'Lake Wasigan – Lake Iliff loop' or the 'High Point State Park Summit – Dingmans Ferry Bridge loop'. For a full list of routes, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Crandon Lakes guide.
What running trails can I find around Crandon Lakes?
Runners can enjoy trails such as the 'Blue Mountain Loop Trail' or explore routes within Stokes State Forest. More detailed options are available in the Running Trails around Crandon Lakes guide.
What is the Paulinskill Valley Trail?
The Paulinskill Valley Trail is a 6.6-mile trail that follows former railway corridors. It's a popular spot for hiking and walking, offering a relatively flat and accessible path through the scenic landscape.
What is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area?
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a broader region that encompasses many of the natural attractions around Crandon Lakes. It's known for its varied landscapes, extensive hiking trails, and features like Hemlock Pond and the Blue Mountain Lake Trail.
Are there any specific tips for visiting Buttermilk Falls?
When visiting Buttermilk Falls, you can climb to the top to take in vistas from the viewing platform. Keep in mind that swimming or wading is not permitted in the waterfall itself or within 50 feet upstream.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Crandon Lakes?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning panoramic views from Normanook Lookout Tower and the impressive height of Buttermilk Falls. The historical significance of the Dingmans Ferry Bridge also makes it a popular stop.
Is there a specific trail around Hemlock Pond?
Yes, the Hemlock Pond Trail leads approximately 3 km around the lake. It's a pristine area within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, surrounded by a lush forest of hemlock firs.
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