The best walks and hikes around Paramus

Yes, many parks in and around Paramus are dog-friendly, but policies require them to be on a leash. Saddle River County Park is a popular choice for walking with dogs on its paved paths. For more rugged, off-leash areas or specific park rules, it's always best to check the official park websites before you go.

For a gentle and accessible family outing, the Van Saun County Park loop is an excellent choice. The trail is short, paved, and located within a large park that has other amenities. Most of the trails directly within Paramus are flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

While the immediate Paramus area is mostly flat, you can find waterfalls with a short drive. Saddle River County Park features a scenic waterfall in its Dunkerhook area. For a more dramatic cascade, many hikers visit nearby Palisades Interstate Park, which is home to the picturesque Peanut Leap Cascade.

The trails directly in Paramus are mostly easy to moderate. For more strenuous hiking with elevation gain and rocky terrain, you'll need to drive a short distance. Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a top destination for challenging hikes, offering rugged trails, stream crossings, and rewarding viewpoints like Hawk Rock. Palisades Interstate Park also provides difficult rock scrambles along the Hudson River.

Parking is typically free at most local and county parks within Paramus, such as Van Saun County Park and Saddle River County Park. However, larger state parks and reservations outside the immediate area, like Palisades Interstate Park or Bear Mountain, often charge a vehicle entrance fee, especially on weekends and during peak season.

Yes, there are several enjoyable loop trails. The Wild Duck Pond loop from Ridgewood High School is a great moderate option that circles a scenic pond. Many parks, like Van Saun, are designed with loop paths, making it easy to return to your starting point without backtracking.

Locals and visitors enjoy a variety of parks for hiking.

Saddle River County Park is a highly-regarded linear park with an extensive multi-use path perfect for long walks. For a more rugged experience, Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a vast, popular park known for its varied trails and dog-friendly paths. Another favorite is Garret Mountain Reservation, a hilltop park offering trails with excellent city views.

The main multi-use path in Saddle River County Park runs for approximately six miles (about 10 km) one way. It connects several park areas and towns, offering a long, continuous route for walking or jogging. The Saddle River County Park Path tour covers nearly eight miles of this system.

The trails around Paramus are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the accessibility and convenience of the local green spaces. The well-maintained, paved paths along the Saddle River are frequently mentioned as a highlight for easy, relaxing walks close to home.

Hiking near Paramus is pleasant year-round, but autumn is particularly popular for its comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, especially in wooded areas like Ramapo Valley County Reservation. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, while summer is great for enjoying the shaded riverside paths.

Some parks, particularly those within Paramus and surrounding towns, can be reached via NJ Transit bus routes. However, accessing the trailheads for larger, more remote reservations like Ramapo Valley or Palisades Interstate Park is significantly easier by car. It is best to check bus schedules and routes in advance.