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July 2024

Queenstown from Bob's Peak, tags: caravan - CC BY-SA

Road trip through Queenstown, New Zealand: A caravan journey of discovery

Snow-capped mountains peeked through the mist outside the caravan window as they made their way to the airport.

The crisp morning air was a tantalising taste of adventure, not yet cold enough to bite but full of promise.

Eagerly, they stepped out of Queenstown Airport and onto New Zealand soil, ready for the thrill of their road trip.

In this article, we will discuss the highlights of the road trip that Kate, author at Musings of Wanderlust, took in New Zealand.

Ready for a road trip

Kate recalls how her heart raced with excitement as they hired a spacious caravan, all set for a journey to explore the wonders of New Zealand.

Venturing into town, they marvelled at the beauty surrounding them – from the vegetation and the lake to the picturesque architecture.

It was her third time visiting Queenstown in ten years, and she found new wonders each time.

The sunset over the lake was a breathtaking display of pastel hues, casting long shadows across the land. As they ventured further into the mountains, the road grew steep and winding, revealing stunning vistas at every turn.

Woolly sheep dotted the landscape, their curiosity piqued by the passing caravan. They arrived at Moke Lake just as darkness fell, settling in for the night with a bottle of local wine and the stars overhead.

The chill in the air was countered by the warmth of the campfire and a functional kitchen area. Despite the occasional bursts of wind and light rain, they found solace in the peace and tranquility of nature around them.

Golden meadows and mountain vistas greeted them as they drove towards Glenorchy, their beauty amplified by the morning sun.

As they continued on their journey, each new discovery filled them with a sense of wonder and appreciation for this incredible land. So much so that Kate came up with a “Kicked List” to document experiences one has ticked off of their bucket list.

May you come to know the joy of doing the same next time you travel.

the end of Mount Trail, tags: hiking trails - CC BY-SA

Top hiking trails in New Jersey for adventure seekers

New Jersey’s hidden hiking gems: Appalachian Trail and scenic waterfalls. A good hike should give you plenty of reasons to stare in awe at the majesty of creation around you, have just the right amount of challenge, and give you plenty of reasons to smile at the climax.

Here are some of the must-visit hiking trails in New Jersey that cater to all experience levels.

Top hiking trails

Difficult

The Mount Tammany Trail is a popular choice for experienced hikers. Located near Dunnfield Creek, this trail offers panoramic views of the Delaware River and features a mix of steep climbs and rock scrambles. Though strenuous, this trail is arguably the most popular in all of New Jersey.

Torne Mountain and Osio Rock Loop. This short but strenuous hike has two rewards for you. Half a mile in, you will find a set of carefully stacked stones that have been assembled into chairs within the wilderness. And the summit view is a lovely contrast of the wild close to you and a mountaintop view of the New York City skyline.

Moderate

Burnt Meadow Loop Trail offers seclusion as you hike in the wilderness that leads to an overlook, featuring views of the Monksville Reservoir with the Wyanokie Mountains as backdrop.

Pochuck Boardwalk and Stairway to Heaven. This unique hike rewards your efforts with overlooking bluffs, cow pastures, and fields of blooming flowers. The boardwalk would eventually become wood plank walkways before you reach the suspension bridge. The “Stairway” is a steep and rocky climb to the top of Wawayanda Mountain.

Easy Climb

Hemlock Falls. This is a short, rewarding hike to a stunning waterfall with wildlife viewing and relaxation spots. The rock trail leads to the top of Washington Rock, whose historical significance is that of being the signal beacon point for the armies in Morristown.

Whatever level of fitness for a hike you’re in, you have plenty of options in New Jersey.