The best walks and hikes around Ho-Ho-Kus
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Hikes near Ho-Ho-Kus NJ explore a landscape of river valleys, local parks, and nature preserves. The terrain is characterized by generally flat paths along waterways like the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, with routes offering a mix of paved surfaces and wooded trails. This network of trails provides accessible options for walking and hiking within Bergen County.
Best hiking trails around Ho-Ho-Kus
- The most popular hiking route is Saddle River County Park Path — Saddle Brook, New Jersey, a 7.9 mile (12.7 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 10 minutes to complete. This route follows a paved path along the Saddle River, making it suitable for a variety of users.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Celery Farm Natural Area loop — Allendale, New Jersey, an easy 1.6 mile (2.6 km) path. It features a mostly flat trail that circles a freshwater wetland, ideal for birdwatching.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Goffle Brook Park via Van Winkles Pond — Hawthorne, New Jersey, a 3.0 mile (4.8 km) trail leading through a county park, often completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Ho-Ho-Kus is defined by riverside paths, wetlands, and trails within local parks. The trail network offers options for different ability levels, with many easy and moderate routes available.
- The routes in Ho-Ho-Kus are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from a number of reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Ho-Ho-Kus's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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The Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a unique hiking experience, stretching for a substantial 19.7 miles (31.7 km) alongside the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. You'll traverse a mostly paved, multi-use pathway that alternates between open stretches and pleasant wooded sections, with notable features like the scenic waterfall at Dunkerhook Park. Despite its generally flat terrain, the sheer length makes this a difficult 8-hour hike, perfect for those seeking a long-distance endurance challenge rather than steep climbs.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is well-maintained and accessible year-round, even plowed after snowstorms. It seamlessly connects five park areas, offering a continuous, car-free environment with amenities like restrooms and water fountains along the way. This makes it a great option for families or anyone looking for a safe, uninterrupted long walk, and leashed dogs are welcome.
This trail stands out for its impressive connectivity and accessibility, utilizing overpasses and underpasses to create a truly car-free journey through Bergen County. It's a vibrant community space, popular with cyclists, runners, and walkers alike, and provides a fantastic opportunity to observe local wildlife such as deer and various birds in its wooded and marshy sections. The path also passes by the historic Easton Tower, adding a touch of local history to your long-distance trek.
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The Wild Duck Pond Pathway offers a tranquil escape into nature, even for a short stroll. You'll follow a smooth, paved path that meanders past the reflective Wild Duck Pond, where local wildlife like ducks and turtles are often seen enjoying the water. The route also traces the banks of the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, moving through shaded wooded sections and open marshy stretches dotted with reeds, creating a varied and calming atmosphere.
Planning your visit to this easy 0.5-mile (0.7 km) hike, which takes about 11 minutes with only 3 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, is straightforward. The pathway is part of a larger, well-maintained park system that includes amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms. It's a great option for a quick outing, and the park's underpass bridges mean you can avoid crossing busy roads, enhancing the peaceful experience.
What makes this trail particularly notable is its integration into a much larger, continuous park system in Bergen County, New Jersey. While this specific segment is short and easy, it connects to a 10.6-mile (17.1 km) looped trail, offering extensive exploration for those who want to extend their adventure. The thoughtful design and abundant amenities make it a standout choice for an accessible and enjoyable outdoor experience.
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Enjoy an easy 1.5-mile hike along the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook on the PSE&G Path and Dunham Trail, perfect for families and dog walkers.
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Easy 0.4-mile hike on a paved path around Glen Rock Duck Pond in Saddle River County Park, perfect for a quick stroll.
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The Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook through a varied landscape of wooded sections, open fields, and marshy areas. You'll encounter tranquil ponds, including the Wild Duck Pond, and even a picturesque waterfall at Dunkerhook Park, making for a scenic and engaging walk. The path itself is primarily paved, but you can easily find unpaved dirt trails branching off for a more natural hiking feel.
This moderate 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route, with a minimal 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 11 minutes to complete. It's a popular choice, so if you prefer a quieter experience, plan your visit for a weekday or early morning. The trail connects multiple park areas, offering numerous access points and amenities like restrooms and water fountains along the way.
What makes this trail stand out is its unique blend of accessibility and diverse features, linking five distinct park areas. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll pass by recreational amenities and historical landmarks like the Historic Easton Tower. The option to choose between paved and light dirt trails, combined with abundant wildlife sightings like deer and frogs, makes it a versatile and rewarding outing for families and casual hikers alike.
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Tips from the Community
Keep your eyes open and you'll spot it through the trees. There are no signs marking it. The berms are really small so they'd be good fun for small kids.
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Many people enjoy coming here for a peaceful break. You might see families having picnics by the water or people simply sitting on benches, enjoying the quiet. The pond and the pathway are good for seeing local wildlife. Besides ducks, you might spot turtles sunning themselves or different kinds of birds flying overhead.
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The Saddle River County Park Path stretches from Duck Pond to Rochelle Park, traversing several parks along the Saddle River. Along the way, there are numerous spots to pause and relish the river view, with some areas even allowing you to dip your feet in the water.
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They constructed Wild Duck Pond around 1927 as a man-made feature. Previously, they would flood this area to create a winter ice skating rink. It's now a lovely park area where you can take a break and unwind by the water.
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The majority of the river courses through popular suburban areas. It earns its name from a river in Scotland near Saddell. This section of the river winds its way through several parks, offering a delightful view of the flowing waters from this point.
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Saddle River County Park encompasses over 500 acres as it follows the banks of the Saddle River and a few of its branches. There is a great bike path that travels right through the middle of the park.
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The Red Mill, according to Wikipedia has the following story: “Easton Tower is a historic building located in the Arcola area of Paramus, New Jersey, and originally used as the housing for a water pump on the estate of businessman Edward D. Easton.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails near Ho-Ho-Kus?
Yes, many parks in the area welcome dogs. The Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a particularly popular choice, offering a vast network of rugged trails and walking paths where you can hike with your dog. Just be sure to check local regulations regarding leashes before you go.
What are the best easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
For a family outing, the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center is an excellent option. It features forested hiking trails leading to streams and meadows, with a playground for kids. Another great choice is the Goffle Brook Park via Van Winkles Pond trail, which is an easy walk through a county park.
Are there any paved walking trails around Ho-Ho-Kus?
Yes, Saddle River County Park features a well-maintained paved pathway that stretches for several miles along the Saddle River. It's ideal for walking, jogging, and bicycling, offering a smooth and accessible surface away from traffic.
Where can I find a more challenging hike near Ho-Ho-Kus?
While most local trails are easy to moderate, you can find more rugged terrain at the Ramapo Valley County Reservation. This large park offers more challenging trails with varied elevation and the reward of scenic views from its ridges.
What are some good spots for a peaceful walk?
The Ho-Ho-Kus Brook Ravine offers a lovely and peaceful experience. It has an easy, almost completely flat path that is perfect for a quiet stroll. For a walk with beautiful water views, the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve (formerly Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve) has a scenic loop trail around a lake.
Can I get to any trailheads using public transport?
Yes, some trails are accessible via public transit. For example, the Wild Duck Pond loop from Glen Rock-Boro Hall starts near a train station, making it a convenient option for those traveling without a car.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking near Ho-Ho-Kus?
The area's wetlands and forests are home to a variety of wildlife. The Celery Farm Natural Area is a well-known hotspot for birdwatching, where you can spot numerous species of birds in a freshwater wetland. In other parks like the Thielke Arboretum, you might encounter deer, squirrels, and various native plants and insects.
Are there any hikes with scenic viewpoints?
For expansive views, head to the Ramapo Valley County Reservation. The trails that climb the ridges offer rewarding vistas, and on a clear day, you can even see the Manhattan skyline in the distance.
Where can I go for a hike with lake or pond views?
The Wild Duck Pond loop from Ridgewood High School is a great option that circles a scenic pond. Additionally, the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve is centered around a large lake, providing peaceful water views throughout your walk.
How many hiking trails are available around Ho-Ho-Kus?
There are over 20 trails to explore in and around Ho-Ho-Kus. The selection includes a mix of easy walks and moderate hikes, ensuring there's a route for every skill level.
What do other hikers say about the trails in this region?
The trails around Ho-Ho-Kus are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful riverside scenery, and the abundance of easy-to-access nature so close to town.
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