Don't Miss Early Spring in the Kittatinny Mountains

Changing seasons, unique vistas

People don't usually think about going outdoors in the changing seasons. Winter hiking is well known, fall is gorgeous, but in between you see things you don't see any other time.

When lake ice is breaking up

It sings. The sounds it makes as it cracks and pulls away from the shore can be weird and otherworldly. If you've never heard it, check out Pleasant Valley Lake, Vernon Valley Lake, and the Highland Lakes in late winter or early spring.

Early bloomers

Snowdrop, Bloodroot, Bluebells, Ground Ivy, Dutchman's Britches, Early Saxifraga, and more. These poke out of the snow in March and are usually gone by May. Go out in early spring to catch them before they disappear.

CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Wildlife

Stay quiet and you may catch animals emerging from hibernation or seeking fresh buds after a long winter. Look for signs of whitetail deer, gray and red squirrels, chipmunks, gray fox, bobcats, and beaver. To photograph animal tracks in snow, overexpose slightly to keep the snow white, and use a flashlight to add side lighting if needed.

Dress for the conditions

Spring weather changes fast. Dress in layers and be prepared for the extremes. Valleys out of the sun can be much colder than the forecast suggests. Waterproof hiking boots and a spare pair of socks are worth it: ice turns to mud quickly. Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back.

After the hike

Warm up with coffee or cocoa at one of the area's restaurants, bars, or inns. There's a lot to see here, and early spring is one of the most rewarding times to do it.

For availability and local tips, call 973-506-9955.