Attractions and Places To See around Highland Lakes - Top 10

Highland Lakes is renowned for its natural beauty, centered around its five interconnected lakes: Highland Lake, East Highland Lake, Upper Highland Lake, Upper West Highland Lake, and Upper East Highland Lake. Adjacent to the community, King's Chair Overlook offers expansive views over the forest. You can also explore the extensive trails of Wawayanda State Park, Surprise Lake in Abraham Hewitt State Forest, and the unique Appalachian Trail Boardwalk through wetlands.

Yes, the area offers numerous hiking opportunities. Wawayanda State Park, adjacent to Highland Lakes, provides many trails. For a popular starting point, consider the North Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park, which gives direct access to routes like the one leading to King's Chair Overlook. For more options, you can find various hiking routes in the easy hikes around Highland Lakes guide.

Highland Lakes is a great destination for cyclists. The Mountain Creek Bike Park is a dedicated spot for biking enthusiasts. For a more technical experience, the Jungle Habitat Trails offer challenging rides with plenty of rocks. You can also find various mountain biking routes in the MTB Trails around Highland Lakes guide.

The five lakes of Highland Lakes are central to the community's recreational offerings. Members can enjoy various water activities like kayaking, canoeing, paddle boating, and pontoon boating. There are seven beaches across the lakes, staffed with lifeguards during the summer months, providing excellent spots for swimming.

Absolutely. For hikers, Thunder Trail is known for its numerous rocks, making it a demanding route, especially when leaves cover the ground in autumn. Cyclists looking for a challenge will find the West Ridge Trail, parallel to the Red Road, features many natural rock gardens requiring careful line choice. The Jungle Habitat Trails also offer a technical and fun ride.

Highland Lakes is rich in wildlife. Visitors often spot deer, otters, foxes, and turkeys. The area is also a haven for birdwatchers, with diverse species including herons, pileated woodpeckers, eagles, mallards, mergansers, buffleheads, and occasionally loons.

Yes, Highland Lakes offers several family-friendly options. The beaches on the five lakes are popular during summer. Veterans Park Lake features a small boardwalk, picnic areas, and paths suitable for a leisurely stroll. The community also provides playgrounds, tennis courts, and basketball courts. For easy walks, check out the easy hikes around Highland Lakes guide.

The most notable historical landmark in Highland Lakes is the Old Kampe Post Office, established in 1773. It is considered the oldest landmark of the community and is located near the juncture of Canistear and Cherry Ridge Roads.

The best time to visit Highland Lakes largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming at the beaches, and general hiking. Autumn offers stunning foliage, making it a beautiful time for trails, though some can be more challenging with fallen leaves. Winter provides opportunities for specific cold-weather activities.

Many popular spots offer parking. For instance, the North Trailhead – Oak Mountain State Park is a key starting point with parking facilities. Veterans Park Lake also has parking available for visitors.

Runners will find a variety of trails around Highland Lakes, ranging from moderate to difficult. You can explore routes like the Lunker Lake loop or the Veterans Park Lake loop. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the Running Trails around Highland Lakes guide.

Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic viewpoints and diverse trails. Spots like King's Chair Overlook are highly rated for their expansive views. The variety of trails, from easy walks to challenging mountain bike routes, also receives positive feedback, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.