The fall foliage in New Jersey is getting ready to hit its peak, and that means it’s time to find the best spots for leaf-peeping! Unfortunately, it sometimes seems that every other person in the Garden State has the same idea! That’s why I was thrilled to find what might be the best fall foliage park in NJ hidden in a popular tourist area of central Jersey. Mercer County Park is located only a small drive from Princeton and other great small towns, but this 2,500-acre county park is packed with recreation opportunities. It’s worth visiting any time of year, but especially now – when the countless waterfronts and trails are transformed into a kaleidoscope of fall colors, and the park is filled with hidden spots perfect for taking in the beauty of the season.

During the summer, Mercer County Park is one of the area's top spots for fun on the water.
Giriraj VG/Google Local
But now, as fall settles in, it becomes one of the best spots in all of New Jersey for taking in the fall foliage.
Visit Princeton
All around the park, you'll see simple paths that lead you to different views of the changing fall colors.
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For avid hikers, there are three main dedicated trails in the park.
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The seven-mile Mercer County Park Trail, the 3.2-mile Vannest Wildlife Trails, and the 5-mile Mercer Park Blue Trail are all rated as easy.

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No matter which you choose, you'll find yourself under stunning canopies of yellow, orange, and red.
Jorge Hernandez/Google Local
Most of the summer amenities are still open and easy to access, including a playground to keep kids occupied while you're taking a break.
Jessi Franko Oliano/Google Local
You'll definitely want to spend the full day here - to see the colors when the sun goes down!
Jorge Hernandez/Google Local
Make sure to find an overlook by one of the lakes for the best view in the entire park at sunset.
Jeff Zhao/Google Local

Have you visited Mercer County Park during the fall? Let us know if you think it’s the best fall foliage park in NJ in the comments section! You can find out more about the park’s many amenities on the official Mercer County website. While you’re in the area, it would be a shame not to visit The Bent Spoon in nearby Princeton to try the award-winning ice cream parlor’s fall flavors. Want to make an overnight trip of it? Check into Princeton’s famous Peacock Inn.

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Mercer County Park, 1638 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township, NJ 08550, USA