Complete Guide to Winter Activities in Sussex County, NJ

Experience winter magic in Sussex County, New Jersey’s northernmost region, where outdoor adventures meet small-town charm. Our scenic landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, offering everything from snow-covered hiking trails at High Point State Park and ice fishing on frozen lakes to cozy historic inns and warm fireside dining. Whether you’re skiing at Mountain Creek Resort, antiquing along Route 206, or savoring a gourmet meal at one of our acclaimed restaurants, Sussex County offers countless ways to embrace the winter season.

This comprehensive 2024 guide showcases the best winter activities throughout Sussex County and surrounding areas. From pristine Lake Hopatcong perfect for winter fishing to mountain resorts ideal for skiing, from historic sites dusted with snow to restaurants serving seasonal comfort food, discover how to make the most of winter in this spectacular corner of New Jersey, just a short drive from NYC and Philadelphia.

Outdoor Winter Adventures

Lakes Region

The area boasts several pristine lakes that transform into winter wonderlands:

 Lake Musconetcong:

• Ice Fishing: When properly frozen, the lake becomes a haven for ice anglers seeking yellow perch, pickerel, and various panfish. Local bait shops can provide current ice conditions and necessary equipment rentals. Don’t forget your fishing license!
• Winter Walking Trails: A 1.5-mile trail circles the lake, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. The flat terrain makes it perfect for all skill levels, and benches along the way provide resting spots.
• Spectacular Sunset Views: The western shore offers unobstructed views of winter sunsets. Photographers particularly love the golden hour when the sun reflects off the ice and snow, creating stunning photo opportunities.

Lake Hopatcong

• New Jersey’s Largest Lake: Spanning 2,686 acres, Lake Hopatcong offers endless winter recreation opportunities across its 45-mile shoreline.
• Winter Fishing: The lake is known for its excellent winter fishing, with dedicated ice fishing areas when conditions permit. Popular catches include walleye, pike, and perch.
• Lakeside Dining: Several restaurants around the lake remain open year-round, offering waterfront views. Try Alice’s Restaurant for comfort food with a view or The Windlass with delicious dining and exceptional views.

Budd Lake

• Scenic Winter Views: The largest natural lake in New Jersey provides spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding winter landscape.
• Photography Opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer particularly stunning views, with Mount Olive creating a dramatic backdrop for winter photography.
• Winter Bird Watching: The lake attracts various winter water birds, making it a favorite spot for bird enthusiasts.

State Parks and Recreation Areas

Allamuchy Mountain State Park

• Winter Hiking Trails: Over 14 miles of marked trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Sussex Branch Trail offers a level grade perfect for winter walks, while the Mountain Trail provides more challenging terrain with scenic overlooks.
• Cross-Country Skiing Opportunities**: When snow conditions permit, the park maintains several trails specifically groomed for cross-country skiing. The Waterloo Road area offers beginner-friendly terrain.
• Wildlife Viewing: Winter is prime time for spotting white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. The Deer Run Trail is particularly good for wildlife spotting.
• Historic Sites: Visit the remains of the Sussex Mine Railroad and Waterloo Village, both particularly picturesque when covered in snow.
• Free Parking: Multiple lots available with easy trail access. The Waterloo Road lot is recommended for first-time visitors.

Stephens State Park

• Musconetcong River Trails: Follow the river on well-maintained trails offering views of winter rapids and occasional ice formations. The main trail is 4 miles long with several shorter loop options.
• Historic Structures: The park features several historic buildings from the Morris Canal era, including a restored locktender’s house with seasonal tours.
• Scenic Winter Walks: The Highland Trail offers elevated views of the river valley, particularly stunning after fresh snowfall.
• Bird Watching: Winter brings various species including cardinals, woodpeckers, and occasional bald eagles near the river.

High Point State Park

• Cross-Country Skiing: 15+ miles of groomed trails suitable for all skill levels. The Cedar Swamp trail offers a relatively flat 4-mile loop perfect for beginners, while the Monument Trail provides more challenging terrain for experienced skiers.
• Snowshoeing: Dedicated snowshoe trails with rentals available at the park office. Guided snowshoe tours offered on weekends, weather permitting.
• Highest Elevation in NJ: The 1,803-foot High Point Monument offers 360-degree views of three states. On clear winter days, you can see the Catskills and Delaware Water Gap.

Stokes State Forest

• Winter Hiking Trails: Over 33 miles of marked trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The Tillman Ravine Trail is particularly beautiful when adorned with icicles.
• Scenic Overlooks: Multiple vistas including Sunrise Mountain, offering spectacular views of the Kittatinny Valley. The observation deck is maintained year-round.
• Wildlife Viewing: Home to diverse winter wildlife including bobcats, red foxes, and over 100 species of winter birds. Best viewing times are early morning and dusk.

Indoor Attractions and Culture

Museums and Historical Sites

• Franklin Mineral Museum:

  

  

  Houses over 4,000 mineral specimens native to the area. Features fluorescent mineral display and mining history exhibits. Winter hours Thursday-Sunday, 10am-4pm.

• Sterling Hill Mining Museum: Underground mine tours showcasing world-famous fluorescent minerals. Winter tours include special “glow rock” demonstrations. Dress warmly as mine temperatures stay at 56°F year-round.

Entertainment Venues

• The Growing Stage Theater: Professional theater featuring family-friendly productions in a restored 1919 palace theater. Winter season includes holiday specials and classic children’s stories.
• Historic Stanhope House: Legendary blues venue built  c.1794. Features live music Friday and Saturday nights.
• Newton Theatre:

  

  

  Restored 1924 theater presenting national acts, classic films, and live performances. Winter programming includes comedy shows, concerts, and family entertainment.

• Year-round Performances: Various venues including Sussex County Community College’s Performing Arts Center, and Centenary Stage Company, offering student and professional productions.
• Sussex County Fairgrounds Events: Winter events include craft shows, antique markets, and the popular Winter Wine Festival in February.

Dining Experiences

Historic Establishments and Fine Dining

• Black Forest Inn (German cuisine): Operating since 1977 in a historic building. Known for authentic German dishes, extensive beer selection, and traditional winter specialties like sauerbraten and schnitzel.
•  Bell’s Mansion: Elegant dining in a beautifully restored 1876 mansion. Offering seasonal menus, craft cocktails, and intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions. Known for their excellent wine selection and historic charm.
• Andre’s Restaurant: Known for their exquisite French cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions. 
• Stonewater: Contemporary American cuisine with spectacular lake views, extensive wine list, and refined seasonal menus featuring fresh ingredients and innovative preparations.

Local Favorites

• Multiple family-owned establishments including Mama’s Cafe Baci (offering extensive gluten-free options), Polo’s Bar and Grill, and Shakey Jake’s Cafe.
• Find a quaint local café such as Roosters Coffee House in nearby Roxbury and spend a relaxing morning or afternoon chatting over seasonal lattes and freshly baked pastries. 

Winter and Holiday Shopping – Antique Shopping Trail

Explore the charming antique shops in the area’s small towns. It’s a great way to spend a crisp winter day, and you might find a unique memento of your trip. Take a drive down 206 into Andover and you will find Scranberry Coop, a vintage Antique shop with a variety of independent vendors all under the same roof!  When you are ready for more shops, continue on 206 North and you will find Grey Barn Antiques as well as other small shops on Main Street in Andover. You can also head on to the Shoppes at Lafayette and have a late lunch or early dinner.

During the winter months, the Sussex County Fairgrounds hosts seasonal events and markets. The Winter Holiday Craft Show, typically held in early December, features local artisans selling handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and seasonal treats. With ample parking and easy access, it’s a perfect stop for finding unique holiday gifts while supporting local crafters. For specific events and dates, you can find their complete calendar here.

Winter Wine & Brew Experiences

Winter is a perfect time to explore local wineries, when cozy tasting rooms and warm mulled wines create the perfect escape from chilly weather. Several local vineyards enhance the experience with weekend entertainment and special winter events. Many of our local wineries offer special winter experience such as:

• Holiday wine tastings
• Seasonal mulled wines
• Winter wine and food pairings
• Indoor tasting rooms with scenic snow views
• Holiday gift shopping

Contact each winery directly or visit their websites for current winter events and hours. Check out our prior blog for detailed information on local wineries.

Accommodations

The Whistling Swan Inn

Whether you’re planning a weekend of winter activities or a cozy getaway, Sussex County offers various lodging options. At the heart of all these winter activities lies the historic Whistling Swan Inn, a beautifully restored Victorian mansion offering the perfect base for your Sussex County adventures. One of the highlights of your stay will be the gourmet breakfast, which has earned countless rave reviews from guests for its creative menu and delicious offerings.

Throughout the winter season, the Inn hosts special events including Victorian Holiday Teas, Murder Mystery Dinners, and themed weekend getaways. After a day of winter activities, guests can warm up by one of the inn’s cozy fireplaces or enjoy complimentary refreshments in the parlor.

Winter visitors particularly appreciate:

• 24/7 hot beverage station
• Comfortable common areas for relaxing
• Off-street parking
• Wrap-around porch perfect for enjoying winter views
• Afternoon refreshments and snacks

Plan Your Winter Getaway

Make the historic Whistling Swan Inn your home base as you explore all that Sussex County has to offer this winter. From the activities mentioned above to countless other seasonal experiences, your perfect winter getaway awaits. Book your stay today and create lasting memories in New Jersey’s winter wonderland.