The best walks and hikes around Maywood

The Overpeck Park River Loop offers a refreshing escape into nature, even within an urban setting. This easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) loop, with a mere 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. You'll wander through a mix of woodlands and open meadows, enjoying picturesque waterfront views along Overpeck Lake and Overpeck Creek, often with distant city skyline glimpses. The well-maintained, mostly paved pathways make for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Planning your visit to the Overpeck Park River Loop is straightforward, as parking for the trailhead is readily available. This route is incredibly family friendly and dog friendly, accommodating strollers and wheelchairs on its accessible terrain. It's a great option for a quick walk or a longer outing, suitable for nearly any time of day or year.

What makes this trail truly special is its status as an urban oasis, providing a rich natural landscape within Bergen County. The park, including the rehabilitated Overpeck Preserve, supports abundant wildlife like deer, rabbits, and various bird species, even attracting overwintering raptors such as Bald Eagles. It's a fantastic spot for bird watching and enjoying nature's resilience.

The Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a unique hiking experience, stretching for a substantial 19.7 miles (31.7 km) alongside the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. You'll traverse a mostly paved, multi-use pathway that alternates between open stretches and pleasant wooded sections, with notable features like the scenic waterfall at Dunkerhook Park. Despite its generally flat terrain, the sheer length makes this a difficult 8-hour hike, perfect for those seeking a long-distance endurance challenge rather than steep climbs.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is well-maintained and accessible year-round, even plowed after snowstorms. It seamlessly connects five park areas, offering a continuous, car-free environment with amenities like restrooms and water fountains along the way. This makes it a great option for families or anyone looking for a safe, uninterrupted long walk, and leashed dogs are welcome.

This trail stands out for its impressive connectivity and accessibility, utilizing overpasses and underpasses to create a truly car-free journey through Bergen County. It's a vibrant community space, popular with cyclists, runners, and walkers alike, and provides a fantastic opportunity to observe local wildlife such as deer and various birds in its wooded and marshy sections. The path also passes by the historic Easton Tower, adding a touch of local history to your long-distance trek.

The Otto C. Pehle Lake Loop offers a wonderfully tranquil and accessible experience, following a paved path that circles the serene Otto C. Pehle Lake. You'll enjoy continuous picturesque views of the lake, featuring a lovely fountain, and in spring, you might even be treated to the sight of cherry blossoms. This easy, flat route is perfect for a relaxing stroll, providing a refreshing escape into nature.

This 0.9-mile (1.4 km) hike involves a negligible 6 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 21 minutes, making it ideal for all ages and fitness levels. Located within Saddle River County Park in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, the trail is part of a larger park system with amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas. You can also connect to a broader multi-use pathway system for longer excursions, and fishing is permitted with a New Jersey State Fishing License.

What makes this loop particularly notable is its blend of accessibility and natural beauty, offering a peaceful outdoor experience right within Bergen County. It's a fantastic option for a quick, high-reward outing, whether you're looking for a family-friendly walk or a quiet moment by the water. The well-maintained environment and gentle terrain ensure a pleasant visit every time.

The Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a delightful escape into nature, winding alongside the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. You'll find a mix of smooth paved surfaces and natural dirt trails that branch into wooded areas, providing a varied experience. The path takes you past serene ponds, including the Wild Duck Pond, and even a picturesque waterfall, making it a scenic journey through Bergen County's green spaces.

This easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) hiking route, with just 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely outing, taking about 1 hour and 49 minutes. It's a fantastic option for family friendly hiking, offering multiple access points and amenities like restrooms and water fountains. The path is well-maintained and accessible year-round, even plowed in winter, so you can visit whenever suits you.

What makes this trail stand out is its versatility and connectivity, linking five park sections and offering both multi-use paved paths and quieter dirt trails for a more traditional feel. You might spot local wildlife, such as deer or snapping turtles, adding to the natural charm. The historic Easton Tower is a notable landmark along the way, providing a unique photo opportunity and a glimpse into the area's past.

The Overpeck Park loop offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, from open meadows to lush woodlands, all while tracing the scenic waterfront of Overpeck Creek and Overpeck Lake. You'll find the paths mostly flat and well-maintained, making for a pleasant stroll where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy birdwatching opportunities, especially near the water. It’s a truly accessible experience, perfect for a relaxed outing.

Planning your visit to this easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) loop, which takes about 1 hour and 18 minutes with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, is straightforward. The park is known for its multi-use paths, making it a great option for families and those with strollers or wheelchairs. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail, provided they remain on a leash, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Overpeck Park stands out as a true urban oasis in Bergen County, offering a convenient connection to nature. Beyond the hiking trail, the larger park boasts numerous amenities, including athletic fields and picnic areas, making it a versatile destination. It's a reliable spot for birdwatching throughout the seasons, with sightings of various waterfowl and migrating warblers, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.