The best walks and hikes around New Milford

The Emerson Woods Preserve Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a maturing 19-acre forest, providing a peaceful escape right in Emerson, New Jersey. As you follow the 2.5-mile (4.1 km) route, you'll traverse mostly flat dirt tracks and natural surfaces, with just 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for nearly everyone. Keep an eye out for glimpses of the Oradell Reservoir through the trees and listen for the diverse birdlife, including woodpeckers and thrushes, that call this preserve home. In spring, the wetlands and vernal ponds are particularly vibrant, hosting lively spring peepers.

Planning your visit to the Emerson Woods Preserve Trail is straightforward, as it's an easy route that typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete. The preserve is dog-friendly, so your canine companion can join you on this gentle adventure. There are no permits or fees required, and the trail is well-suited for a casual stroll at any time of day, though mornings often offer the quietest experience. Parking is generally available, making trailhead access simple for visitors.

This preserve is a testament to local conservation efforts, preserving a valuable second-growth forest that acts as a protective filter for the Oradell Reservoir's water supply. A notable feature is the self-guided nature trail, which includes 18 distinct points of interest, allowing you to learn more about the local flora and fauna as you walk. It's a fantastic option for families, nature enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a short, educational, and easy outdoor activity.

The Otto C. Pehle Lake Loop offers a wonderfully tranquil and accessible experience, following a paved path that circles the serene Otto C. Pehle Lake. You'll enjoy continuous picturesque views of the lake, featuring a lovely fountain, and in spring, you might even be treated to the sight of cherry blossoms. This easy, flat route is perfect for a relaxing stroll, providing a refreshing escape into nature.

This 0.9-mile (1.4 km) hike involves a negligible 6 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 21 minutes, making it ideal for all ages and fitness levels. Located within Saddle River County Park in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, the trail is part of a larger park system with amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas. You can also connect to a broader multi-use pathway system for longer excursions, and fishing is permitted with a New Jersey State Fishing License.

What makes this loop particularly notable is its blend of accessibility and natural beauty, offering a peaceful outdoor experience right within Bergen County. It's a fantastic option for a quick, high-reward outing, whether you're looking for a family-friendly walk or a quiet moment by the water. The well-maintained environment and gentle terrain ensure a pleasant visit every time.

The Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a delightful escape into nature, winding alongside the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. You'll find a mix of smooth paved surfaces and natural dirt trails that branch into wooded areas, providing a varied experience. The path takes you past serene ponds, including the Wild Duck Pond, and even a picturesque waterfall, making it a scenic journey through Bergen County's green spaces.

This easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) hiking route, with just 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely outing, taking about 1 hour and 49 minutes. It's a fantastic option for family friendly hiking, offering multiple access points and amenities like restrooms and water fountains. The path is well-maintained and accessible year-round, even plowed in winter, so you can visit whenever suits you.

What makes this trail stand out is its versatility and connectivity, linking five park sections and offering both multi-use paved paths and quieter dirt trails for a more traditional feel. You might spot local wildlife, such as deer or snapping turtles, adding to the natural charm. The historic Easton Tower is a notable landmark along the way, providing a unique photo opportunity and a glimpse into the area's past.

The Oradell Reservoir Lake Shore Drive Trail offers a wonderfully easy and scenic hike, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll stroll along a mostly flat path of hard-packed dirt and gravel, winding through peaceful forests. The route provides intermittent, picturesque views of the Oradell Reservoir, with its clear waters reflecting the surrounding trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

Accessing the trail is straightforward, typically done through the Veolia Water facility on Lake Shore Drive. Good news for hikers: no permit is required for walking the main trail. However, if you're planning on birdwatching or fishing in the adjacent wooded areas, you'll need to look into Veolia's Watershed Recreation program for the necessary permits.

This area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, especially birdwatchers. During spring and fall migrations, you can spot a variety of waterfowl, egrets, herons, and even majestic bald eagles and ospreys. The Oradell Reservoir itself is vital, supplying drinking water to over 800,000 people and boasting a Category 1 water purity status, making it a significant natural resource.