The best walks and hikes around Upper Saddle River

Yes, many parks in the area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. For example, Ramapo Valley County Reservation generally welcomes leashed dogs on its trails. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's regulations before you go. The official park website is the best source for the most current rules.

For an easy and accessible walk that's great for families, consider the Scarlet Oak Pond loop via Vista Loop — Ramapo Mountain State Forest. It's a short, relatively flat trail around a scenic pond. Another excellent option is the Celery Farm Natural Area, which offers gentle paths perfect for birdwatching with children.

The region has several lovely waterfalls. You can find one within the Ramapo Valley County Reservation, which adds a scenic highlight to many of the hikes there. Another popular spot is the waterfall in the Dunkerhook Area of Saddle River County Park, which is easily accessible and a great destination for a shorter walk.

Yes, you can see the NYC skyline from certain vantage points. A hike to Hawk Rock within the Ramapo Valley County Reservation is well-known for rewarding hikers with distant city views on a clear day. Similarly, Garret Mountain Reservation is a highly-regarded spot that offers panoramic views which include the Manhattan skyline.

While the area is known for easy and moderate trails, you can find more strenuous options. The Bear Swamp Lake loop via Halifax Trail — Ramapo Mountain State Forest is a longer, moderate route with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain that will challenge most hikers. Combining various trails in Ramapo Mountain State Forest or Ramapo Valley County Reservation can also create a more demanding day out.

Most of the major trailheads, like those at Ramapo Valley County Reservation and Ramapo Mountain State Forest, are best accessed by car. Both locations have dedicated parking lots, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Public transport options are limited for direct trailhead access.

Yes, you can combine hiking with a bit of history in Ramapo Mountain State Forest. A popular trail leads to the ruins of the Van Slyke Castle, a mansion from the early 20th century. The hike not only offers a glimpse into the past but also provides excellent views of the surrounding landscape.

The area has many great loop trails so you don't have to retrace your steps. The Vista Loop to Cactus Ledge — Ramapo County Valley Reservation is a fantastic circular route. For a shorter option, the Celery Farm Natural Area loop — Allendale, New Jersey provides a pleasant walk around a freshwater marsh.

Absolutely. The multi-use path in Saddle River County Park is a popular choice for runners looking for a flat, paved surface over a long distance. For those who prefer more traditional, rugged trail running, the networks within Ramapo Valley County Reservation and High Mountain Park Preserve offer varied terrain with hills and forest paths.

The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of nearly 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the variety of scenery, from serene lakeside paths at Scarlet Oak Pond to the rewarding views from atop Cactus Ledge. The well-maintained and clearly marked trail systems in the major parks are also frequently mentioned as a major plus.

There are nearly 40 curated hiking routes available in the immediate area. These range from short, easy walks suitable for the whole family to more challenging moderate hikes through forests and up to scenic overlooks. The extensive trail networks in the large reservations mean there are countless variations to explore.