Terrain of New Jersey

New Jersey's terrain varies dramatically in four physiographic provinces (northwest to southeast):

1. Valley and Ridge (Appalachians) – Long, linear ridges (Kittatinny Mountain) and valleys; High Point (1,803 ft) highest in state.
2. Highlands – Rugged, rocky plateau (gneiss, granite); lakes, reservoirs; elevations 800–1,200 ft.
3. Piedmont – Rolling hills, red shale/sandstone, fertile valleys; includes Watchung Mountains (volcanic basalt ridges). Major cities: Newark, Jersey City, Paterson.
4. Atlantic Coastal Plain – Flat, sandy, <200 ft elevation; Pine Barrens (1.1M acres), barrier islands, salt marshes, beaches. Covers ~3/5 of state.

This diversity supports varied ecosystems, agriculture, and recreation.