The OP asked for 'day trip' areas; and you guys put up nice options, but no 'day trips' as far as I'm concerned. Living in Nj is a tradeoff you are close to alot, but share it with millions; and sometimes the trails feel like it <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" /> BUT, if you go in the off seasons you can find sparsely populated trails to enjoy shoeing or skiing.

Go up to Campmor in Paramus and checkout the locals board, plus all the fliers for outdoor stuff after you pass through the cashiers. You will find tons of info for yourself on the area <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />

Driving anywhere in NJ is not that hard, unless a traffic accident snarls traffic, or it's the 'rush'; then you're pretty much resolved to listening to that book on tape you have (hopefully) in your car <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />