The best walks and hikes around Englewood Cliffs

Yes, dogs are generally permitted in Palisades Interstate Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always a good practice to check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike, especially within nature preserves like the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, which may have different rules to protect local wildlife.

The area features some lovely cascades. A popular hike is the Peanut Leap Cascade into Giant Stairs trail, a moderate route that leads to a picturesque waterfall. Another option is the Dyckman Hill trail, which starts near the Englewood Picnic Area and passes by three small waterfalls.

For an easy and educational outing, the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center loop is an excellent choice. This short trail winds through a well-regarded nature preserve with streams and meadows. Another gentle option is the Inwood Hill Park loop, which offers a pleasant walk through forested paths.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous workout, the Palisades offer some challenging terrain. The Giant Stairs hike is well-known for its rock scramble section, requiring careful navigation over large boulders along the Hudson River. The Clinton Point Hike is another demanding option, an 8-mile round-trip that takes around 5 hours to complete.

Many trails in Palisades Interstate Park offer spectacular vistas. The Long Path from Allison Park provides stunning views of the Hudson River from atop the cliffs. For an easily accessible viewpoint, the Rockefeller Lookout and other overlooks along the Palisades Interstate Parkway offer panoramic scenes without a long hike.

Parking is available at several points within Palisades Interstate Park. The Englewood Picnic Area and Ross Dock Picnic Area offer parking and serve as trailheads for several routes. There are also designated lots at various overlooks and access points, such as Allison Park. It's best to arrive early on weekends as popular spots can fill up quickly.

There are nearly 100 curated hiking routes to explore around Englewood Cliffs on komoot. These range from easy walks in nature preserves to moderate and difficult treks along the Palisades cliffs, offering plenty of options for all skill levels.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic cliffside views over the Hudson River, the well-maintained trails within Palisades Interstate Park, and the peaceful, forested paths found in places like Flat Rock Brook Nature Center.

Yes, there are several excellent loop trails. The Dyckman Hill/Carpenter's Grove Loop is an easy 3.9-mile circuit with pleasant views. For a more moderate challenge, the Hiking loop from Marble Hill is a 5.6-mile route that offers a varied experience. Many hikers also create their own loops by combining sections of the Long Path and the Shore Trail.

The terrain is quite varied. Expect forested paths, some of which can be rocky and rooted. The defining feature is the Palisades, which means many trails involve ascents and descents on steep, rocky cliffs. You'll also find flatter, gentler paths along the river's edge on the Shore Trail and within nature preserves.

Absolutely. The Fort Tyron Park loop is a short, accessible walk perfect for beginners. The trails within Flat Rock Brook Nature Center are also ideal, offering a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty on well-marked paths.

Yes, the Englewood Picnic Area is a popular spot located right on the riverfront. It's equipped with picnic tables and grills, and it serves as a convenient starting point for several trails. It's a great place to relax and have a meal after your hike.