Winding 27.5 miles through the heart of central New Jersey, the Millstone Valley Scenic Byway offers a peaceful escape into the Garden State’s pastoral heritage. This National Scenic Byway follows the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal towpath from Kingston to East Millstone, revealing a landscape where time seems to slow down.

Along the route, travelers discover charming canal-side villages, centuries-old stone bridges, and quiet stretches where herons wade in still waters. The towpath—once tread by mules pulling cargo barges—now welcomes cyclists and walkers beneath a canopy of sycamores and oaks. Historic sites dot the journey, including preserved lock tender houses and the picturesque Blackwells Mills Canal House.

The byway meanders past working farms, colonial-era homes, and meadows that burst with wildflowers in spring. Kayakers and canoeists share the calm canal waters, while fishermen try their luck from shaded banks.

Spring and fall offer ideal conditions, with mild temperatures and stunning foliage. Summer brings lush greenery and opportunities for water activities. Allow two to three hours for a leisurely drive with stops for photographs, short walks along the towpath, and exploration of the quaint villages that make this byway a hidden treasure of the mid-Atlantic.

Explore Nearby

• Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park — State Park in New Jersey
• James Lawrence House — State Park in New Jersey
• Stacy Park — Dark Sky Site in Missouri
• Green Sergeants Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in South Carolina
• Great Beds Light — Lighthouse in New Jersey