Clinton Station and Spruce Run State Recreation Area

   Went up to visit with our son, Phil, today. Decided to have lunch at the Clinton Station Diner, Clinton, NJ. The Diner opened in 2004 and has had a booming business since. A couple of things set it apart from other diners and restaurants. The first thing you will notice is the refurbished, 1927 Blue Comet Train Observation Car attached to the side of the diner which actually offers seating. The Blue Comet Train once ran from Jersey City to  Atlantic City.
   If you go to The Clinton Station Diner  website, you can watch a video of the train car being delivered. At their site are also photos of the car being refurbished. What fun it must have been to see that traveling up the highway.
 Once inside the diner, you will soon notice the amazing dessert case, which is located right along side the cashier so as to tempt you upon leaving. Even better than the over fifty dessert options, is the menu. While in itself quite extensive, you must check out the burger section. There you will enjoy reading about the Greek God Burgers with choices from the 4 oz. Nano Bites right up to the 8th Wonder burger containing 50 lbs of meat!! There are several challenges for the massive burgers including: you and 8 friends finishing the 8th Wonder in a certain amount of time, it is on the house and you could win 2,000!  Needless to say, we did not partake in one of those!

The Clinton Station Diner (photo found online)

After lunch, we took a brisk and chilly walk at the Spruce Run State Recreation Area, also in Clinton. The park encompasses 1,290-acres and surrounds the Spruce Run Reservoir. The reservoir is the third largest in the state and one of the first water supply facilities to be constructed and operated by the state. It is a popular site for boating, fishing, swimming, camping and picnicking. It also offers a variety of historical and natural interpretive programs seasonally. During the peak summer season there is a small entry fee, the rest of year is free. Remember, if you are over 62 or disabled, you can get a special pass entitling you to free admission and parking at most NJ State Parks.
  Today, we didn't stay too long as it was cold and windy. Long enough to take a nice, brisk walk along the shoreline of the reservoir. Wildlife was quiet but there were lots of dog walkers enjoying the park. Was a pleasure to get out in nature if only for a short spell. And, of course, spending time with Phil is always a good thing!.

Check out the icicles hanging from the branches!