The best running trails around Totowa
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435
runners
73
runs
Jogging around Totowa, New Jersey, offers a diverse landscape for outdoor activity. The region features natural spaces like Garret Mountain Reservation, which provides extensive trails and panoramic views. Waterside paths can be found along Barbour Pond, and efforts are underway to expand greenways along the Passaic River. The terrain includes varied elevations, from gentle riverside routes to more challenging paths within the local reservations.
Best jogging routes around Totowa
- The most popular jogging route is Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail that takes about 37 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic views and passes by historical landmarks within Garret Mountain Reservation.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Barbour Pond loop from Woodland Park, a moderate 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. This trail provides runners with scenic water views along the pond's banks.
- Local runners also love the Running loop from Paterson, a 2.1 miles (3.3 km) trail leading through local urban and natural areas, often completed in about 23 minutes.
- Jogging around Totowa is defined by Garret Mountain Reservation trails, tranquil waterside paths, and urban green spaces. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and more challenging running routes suitable for various ability levels.
- The routes in Totowa are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. More than 300 runners have used komoot to explore Totowa's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
3
runners
5.05km
00:37
50m
50m
The Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop is a dynamic jogging route that feels surprisingly rugged despite its urban proximity. You'll navigate a mix of dirt paths, rocky sections, and even some paved stretches, all while enjoying the serene waters of Barbour Pond and the wooded surroundings. The highlight for many is the chance to catch impressive, sweeping views of the New York City skyline from various overlooks, making it a rewarding experience for a relatively short effort.
This moderate 3.1-mile (5.0 km) loop involves 164 feet (50 metres) of elevation gain, which you can typically complete in about 37 minutes. The trail is well-marked with yellow blazes, ensuring easy navigation. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, planning your visit for a clear day will maximize your chances of enjoying those iconic skyline views.
What truly sets this trail apart is its blend of natural beauty and historical context. Designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers Firm, known for Central Park, the reservation offers an unexpected escape. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the park as a significant stopover point for over 150 species of migrating birds, adding another layer of interest to your run.
33
runners
5.32km
00:36
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21
runners
8.25km
00:52
80m
80m
The Packanack Lake – East Beach loop from Preakness offers a delightful jogging experience, winding through a vibrant community with continuous views of the water. You'll enjoy mostly paved surfaces, making for a consistent run, while the lush greenery of spring and fall adds to the picturesque scenery. The highlight is East Beach, a serene spot with soft white sand, perfect for a moment of calm before continuing your journey around the lake.
This moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) loop involves a manageable 257 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 52 minutes to complete. While specific parking details for the Packanack Lake – East Beach loop from Preakness jogging trail are not provided, the area is known for its amenities, especially around East Beach. Consider visiting during spring or fall to catch the best of the natural beauty, and arriving earlier in the day might help secure a spot.
This route is part of the active Packanack Lake community in Wayne, New Jersey, known for its rolling woodlands and opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer and various bird species. The trail network around Packanack Lake is highly rated, offering a charming natural escape that feels both accessible and engaging for those seeking scenic circular walks in the area.
14
runners
3.33km
00:23
50m
50m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
runners
23.4km
02:28
250m
250m
The Presby Iris Memorial Garden loop from Upper Montclair offers a truly distinctive jogging experience, especially if you appreciate running through a living canvas of color. This difficult 14.5-mile (23.4 km) route, with 815 feet (248 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 27 minutes, guiding you through winding paths and past the vibrant "rainbow on the hill" created by thousands of irises. Expect varied terrain, including some hilly sections, providing a good workout while you soak in the beauty of the gardens, complete with a gazebo and reflecting pool.
To make the most of your visit, plan your jog for mid-May to early June, when the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens are in their spectacular peak bloom, showcasing over 100,000 flowers. The gardens are generally easy to access, and the route incorporates a segment of the broader Lenape Trail, offering options for extended exploration. This is a perfect choice for those seeking a challenging run combined with an immersive natural and horticultural experience.
What makes this route particularly special is its setting within the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens, recognized as the world's largest non-commercial iris garden. Established in 1927, it functions as a living museum, preserving thousands of iris varieties, some dating back to the 1500s. The unique sloped beds give the garden its famous "rainbow on the hill" appearance, transforming a simple jog into a journey through horticultural history and a vibrant display of nature's artistry.
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Tips from the Community
Presby Iris Memorial Garden is a vibrant and colorful space filled with dozens of iris varieties blooming in spring and summer. Enjoy riding or walking through to appreciate the beautiful flowers.
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Great view from Garret Mountain Reservation of the New York City Skyline. There are several spots in the park where you can catch a glimpse, but this is one of the most popular spots.
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Garret Mountain Reservation is a 300-acre park that is a popular spot for a variety of recreational activities. There are miles of trails for hikers and trail runners in the park, as well as two historical sites: Lambert Castle and Lambert Tower.
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Barbour Pond is the largest body of water in Garret Mountain Reservation. There is a trail that runs along the banks of the pond, so you can get a good view of the water during your run.
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Barbour Pond is the biggest reservoir within the Garret Mountain Reservation. The park features hiking trails that travel on both sides of Barbour Pond and are often utilized by those looking to fish the waters. There are a couple cool overlooks of the pond just off the side of the trail.
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Good for a view passing through or stopping to rest
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Totowa?
Totowa and its surrounding areas offer a wide selection of running routes, with over 70 different trails available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy jogs to more challenging runs.
Are there family-friendly running paths in Totowa?
Yes, Totowa has several running paths suitable for families. Many of the trails within Garret Mountain Reservation, while offering varied terrain, can be enjoyed by families. For a generally easier option, consider routes along the Passaic River Greenway, which aims to provide accessible paths.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Totowa?
Many parks and trails in the Totowa area, including sections of Garret Mountain Reservation, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations or trail signage for leash requirements and any restrictions before heading out with your furry friend.
What kind of scenery can I expect on Totowa's running routes?
Runners in Totowa can enjoy a diverse range of scenery. You'll find tranquil waterside paths around Barbour Pond, extensive trails with panoramic views of the New York City skyline at Garret Mountain Reservation, and urban green spaces. The region offers a mix of natural beauty and distant city vistas.
Are there any easy running routes for beginners in Totowa?
Yes, Totowa offers easy running routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Running loop from Paterson is an easy 2.1-mile trail that takes about 23 minutes to complete, leading through local urban and natural areas. Many sections of the Passaic River Greenway also provide relatively flat and accessible paths.
Where can I find running routes with scenic views of the NYC skyline?
For breathtaking views of the New York City skyline, head to Garret Mountain Reservation. Trails like the Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop offer scenic vistas, and the Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook is a prime spot for enhanced viewing.
Are there any circular running routes in the Totowa area?
Yes, many of the popular running routes in the Totowa area are circular. The Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop and the Barbour Pond loop from Woodland Park are both excellent examples of loop trails that allow you to start and finish at the same point.
What are the parking options for running trails in Totowa?
Many popular running areas in and around Totowa, such as Garret Mountain Reservation, offer dedicated parking facilities. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot, as many routes include information about nearby parking. Street parking may also be available in some urban areas near trailheads.
What do other runners say about the trails in Totowa?
The running routes in Totowa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Over 300 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic views, particularly those of the NYC skyline, and the diverse options available.
Are there longer running routes for endurance training near Totowa?
While many routes are moderate in length, you can combine trails within larger parks like Garret Mountain Reservation to create longer runs. Additionally, the Packanack Lake – East Beach loop from Preakness offers a moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) option, suitable for those looking for a longer distance.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks near the running trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can find several interesting attractions. The Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook provides stunning views. Barbour Pond is a significant natural feature, and the developing Passaic River Greenway offers historical context along the riverfront.
Are there any running routes along water in Totowa?
Yes, the Totowa area features beautiful running routes along water. The Barbour Pond loop from Woodland Park provides scenic water views along the pond's banks. Additionally, the Passaic River Greenway, which flows through Totowa, offers opportunities for riverside runs as sections continue to be developed.
When is the best time of year to go running in Totowa?
Totowa offers enjoyable running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late evening runs are ideal. Winter running is also possible, though some trails may require appropriate gear for colder conditions.
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