New Jersey isn’t usually known for its caves, with neighboring states having the bigger caverns – but that just means that the caves New Jersey does have are all the more unique, and less likely to be crowded. You can find a unique cave adventure in New Jersey in the northern town of Phillipsburg, and it’s all the more stunning in the winter. All you have to do is take an easy 1.9-mile trail in the Marble Hill Natural Area – the perfect way to work up an appetite on a frosty winter day. The good news is, you’re only a few minutes from the Brass Rail Restaurant & Bar, a historic and rustic Phillipsburg restaurant that makes the perfect finish to a day of exploring. Combining these two will give you one of the most memorable day trips in the north Jersey area.
The Marble Hill Ice Cave-via-Warren-Highlands Trail in Marble Hill is under two miles long, and is considered an easy route -with a surprising secret.
Stefan Rinik/AllTrails
While most people might explore the area in warmer months, there is a special incentive to those who brave it in the winter.
Devonte Gordon/AllTrails
You won’t encounter any expert terrain, but you should pack some good hiking boots for the rougher areas.
Nancy Ivanyo/AllTrails
The Marble Hill Ice Cave, a small cave that looks stunning in the winter, is the crown gem of the area’s natural scene.
Nancy Ivanyo/AllTrails
During the winter, hundreds of little icicles form on the cave roof and floor, creating the appearance of an ancient network of stalactites and stalagmites.
AllTrails Carmen Whitmore
Nothing like a good hike to work up an appetite, so head to the Brass Rail only minutes away.
Brass Rail Pburg/AllTrails
This restaurant has been serving Phillipsburg for around a hundred years, and the rustic interior feels like an old western saloon - perfect to go with a day of exploring caves.
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The menu focuses on hearty country favorites like barbecue, fried chicken, and pizza - perfect stick-to-your-ribs food for winter.
Brass Rail Pburg/AllTrails
There is even a weekly prime rib special, cooked to order and served with all the sides for a reasonable price!
Brass Rail Pburg/AllTrails
Have you taken this memorable cave adventure in New Jersey or eaten at the Brass Rail? Let us know about your day in the comments section. You can find out more about the Marble Hill Natural Area on the county website, and you can visit the Brass Rail website for all the information on the menu. For another off-the-beaten-path Jersey adventure, check out this Pine Barrens restaurant.
Stefan Rinik/AllTrails
Devonte Gordon/AllTrails
Nancy Ivanyo/AllTrails
AllTrails Carmen Whitmore
Brass Rail Pburg/AllTrails
PaulieWalnuts12/TripAdvisor
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Address: Warren Highlands Trail, 99 Fox Farm Rd, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865, USAAddress: Brass Rail Restaurant & Bar, 840 Belvidere Rd, Phillipsburg, NJ 08865, USA
