Hudson County High Point Trip Report

Date: January 27, 2001
Author: Dan Case

Mike Schwartz uncharacteristically did not provide directions, so I'll say that the best way to reach this area is probably by exiting NJ 495 (still shown on some road maps as I-495) at John F. Kennedy Boulevard, a few miles before the Lincoln Tunnel, and going north a couple of miles (through stop-and-go traffic, so I wouldn't count this one as an easy interstate detour). However, I chose to dip south from Fort Lee on US 1 & 9, a bit longer detour from the George Washington Bridge approach. If you use 1 and 9 from either 495 or I-95 (the top of the NJ Turnpike), do be advised that the ridge is a rather steep climb and you should definitely use a lower gear.

This area, like New York County across the river, is completely urbanized. Unlike Manhattan, though, there is absolutely no natural ground left showing at the high areas. Everything is completely covered in buildings, asphalt or concrete. So judgments about the highest ground are, as Mike's report also suggests, a little subjective and possibly influenced by human factors. It will be highly unlikely that any way can be found to establish one or the other of these as the higher, at least with present technology. However, for the same reason it qualifies as a serious gimme.

St Mary's School (260+ ft)

From Kennedy Blvd., turn left on 67th Street (one way in the direction you want to go) at a Honda dealership. Park along either side where spaces are available. Highest ground is on north side of street in front of No. 568.

1 area 1,000' NE of school (260+ ft)

Continue down 67th to Jackson Ave. Turn left (again the multitude of one-way signs here favors strongly a southerly approach to both areas, and if you do this on foot that won't even matter). Go up a couple of blocks into Guttenberg, where signs indicate most on-street parking is reserved for residents with permits. High ground appears to be sidewalk in front of No. 6819 on west side of street, where some of the concrete has risen due to underlying adjacent tree roots.