PHOTO COURTESY OF MEREDITH DESMOND
Mountain Lakes
New Jersey's Best Towns For Families 2017 Morris County
Population: 4,206
Average Home Price: $868,451
Mountain Lakes is a picturesque suburb with a small-town feel and plenty of natural beauty. Amid busy highways and bustling municipalities throughout Morris County, this borough is a quiet sanctuary a short drive from large suburban Morristown and a train ride from New York City.
Founded in 1910, Mountain Lakes has plenty of historic charm on exhibit via the older homes that dot its residential streets. The Grimes Homestead (a large home that dates back to the 18th century) even served as a station on the Underground Railroad.
Though the borough’s only 2.85 square miles, it sits on some seriously prime real estate between several man-made lakes. The high school team is appropriately named the Lakers.
When it came time to relocate, Erinn Tucker, a mother of two boys and transplant from Fairfield in Essex County, was quickly sold.
This waterfront community is a haven for anyone with a love for the great outdoors. “We were drawn to the town because of its top-rated school system and natural beauty,” says Tucker.
“The lakes, hiking trails and tree-covered, winding roads provide for a lot of quality outdoor time with our kids,” adds Tucker. “Our summers are spent participating on the swim team and taking sailing lessons at the lakes, while sledding and ice skating get us through the winter.”
Mountain Lakes also has a tremendous sense of community, where no one shies away from lending a helping hand. “I really appreciate the old-school values and volunteerism that exists here,” says Tucker. “Neighbors know each other, help one another out and rally around community members in need. The residents are truly what make this a special place to live and raise children.” — by Murphy Moroney
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