The best walks and hikes around Saddle River
4.8
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Hiking around Saddle River, New Jersey, is primarily centered within Saddle River County Park, a linear park following the Saddle River. The terrain is generally flat, featuring a mix of paved multi-use pathways and unpaved trails that extend into adjacent woodlands. The landscape is characterized by its riverside setting, various ponds, and marshy areas, offering accessible routes for most fitness levels.
Best hiking trails in Saddle River
- The most popular hiking route is Saddle River County Park Bike Path,…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
4
hikers
31.7km
08:01
40m
50m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
2.48km
00:38
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
1
hikers
743m
00:11
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.34km
00:35
0m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
590m
00:09
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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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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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 dogs allowed on the trails in Saddle River County Park?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Saddle River County Park but must be kept on a leash. For some off-leash fun, the Wild Duck Pond Area of the park includes a designated dog run.
Are there any waterfalls to see on hikes around Saddle River?
Yes, you can find a scenic waterfall within Saddle River County Park. It's located in the Dunkerhook Area, which is accessible from the main multi-use path and offers a lovely point of interest during a hike.
What are the best family-friendly hiking options?
The region is excellent for family outings. The main path through Saddle River County Park is paved and mostly flat, making it ideal for strollers and little legs. The park is also divided into five sections, many of which have playgrounds and picnic areas, such as the Glen Rock Area and Wild Duck Pond Area.
Are there unpaved, more natural trails available?
While Saddle River County Park is known for its main paved pathway, several unpaved side trails branch off into the surrounding woodlands and marshy areas. These offer a more rustic and immersive hiking experience away from the main path.
Where can I park to access the hiking trails?
Parking is available in lots spread across the five main areas of Saddle River County Park. These are the Wild Duck Pond Area, Glen Rock Area, Dunkerhook Area, Otto Pehle Area, and Rochelle Park Area. Each provides direct access to the trail system.
What are some good easy hikes in the area?
The area specializes in accessible hikes. A great option is the Goffle Brook Park via Van Winkles Pond — Hawthorne, New Jersey route. It's a gentle walk around a pond, perfect for a relaxed afternoon outdoors. Most trails in the region have minimal elevation gain.
How do the hikes in Saddle River compare to those in Ramapo Reservation?
Saddle River offers primarily flat, paved, and gentle unpaved trails along the river, making it ideal for easy walks, jogging, and family outings. In contrast, Ramapo Valley County Reservation features more challenging terrain with rocky paths, significant elevation changes, and more rugged, traditional hiking experiences.
Is Saddle River a good place for birdwatching?
Absolutely. The wetlands and riverside habitats are excellent for birdwatching. The Celery Farm, a nearby 107-acre wetlands preserve, is a particularly popular spot with local birders, known for hosting a wide variety of species on its flat, easy-to-walk trails.
What are the different sections of Saddle River County Park?
The park is a 577-acre linear park composed of five distinct areas. From north to south, they are: Wild Duck Pond Area (Ridgewood), Glen Rock Area, Dunkerhook Area (Paramus/Fair Lawn), Otto Pehle Area (Saddle Brook), and Rochelle Park Area. A multi-use path connects them all.
How long is the main hiking and biking path?
The primary multi-use pathway that runs through Saddle River County Park is approximately six to seven miles long. It provides a continuous, relatively flat route that connects the various sections of the park.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Saddle River?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved paths for easy walking and the peaceful, scenic environment along the river.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several loop trails. For a route with a bit more elevation and woodland scenery, consider the Mevo Farm and Campgaw Mountain via Silver Trail loop — Campgaw Mountain Reservation. It offers a more contained hiking experience compared to the linear park path.
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