6 parts of New Jersey that will make you forget you live in NJ

Most people in our state tend to travel in a pretty small circle of their own area. One reason is our population density and the fact that you can find anything you want or need very close to where you live or work. New Jersey not only has a diversity of population but landscape and scenery as well.

From the northwest corner to the southeast corner, it's a completely different state.

Most everyone knows about our great shoreline with its diverse little towns, many with boardwalks and attractions and some with stately mansions right on the beach. Yet there are some, albeit rare, stretches of the beach where there's nothing but wildlife and sand.

Here are a half dozen places that most people wouldn't imagine when they think of New Jersey.

Each of the spots should be on any New Jerseyan's list of must-see places in our state. Every one of them is so unique and different and they are especially outside the box when it comes to what you think of seeing when you're in New Jersey.

High Point State Park — Sussex County

Island Beach State Park — Ocean County

St. Hubert's Chapel — Morris County

Palisades Interstate Park — Bergen County

Grounds for Sculpture — Mercer County

Paterson Great Falls — Passaic County

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Dennis Malloy only.

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These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: