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United States
New Jersey
Passaic County

Hawthorne

Easy hikes and walks around Hawthorne

4.7

(20)

365

hikers

31

hikes

Easy hiking trails around Hawthorne offer access to local green spaces and proximity to diverse Southern California landscapes. The area features urban parks with walking paths, such as Memorial Park and Bicentennial Park, which includes a peaceful lake. Multi-use paved pathways like the Beach Cities Greenway Trail provide scenic routes with coastal breezes. The region's terrain includes gentle parkland, urban greenways, and access to areas with varied elevation.

Best easy hiking trails in Hawthorne

  • The most popular easy hiking route…

Last updated: May 12, 2026

5.0

(1)

1

hikers

#1.

Wild Duck Pond Pathway

743m

00:11

0m

0m

The Wild Duck Pond Pathway is an easy 0.5-mile hike around Wild Duck Pond in Ridgewood, New Jersey, perfect for families and dog walkers.

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Easy

4.13km

01:11

100m

80m

Embark on the Summit Trail Loop for an easy and accessible hiking experience within High Mountain Park Preserve. This route offers a pleasant journey through natural surroundings, leading you towards…

Easy
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Hike the easy Goffle Brook Park Pathway, a 1.5-mile route through meadows and woodlands, featuring Goffle Brook and Van Winkle's Pond Waterf

Easy

Enjoy an easy 1.5-mile hike along the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook on the PSE&G Path and Dunham Trail, perfect for families and dog walkers.

Easy

Hike the easy 0.4-mile Paterson Falls Park Trails to see the powerful Great Falls of the Passaic River and historic industrial architecture.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Scott
May 13, 2025, Wild Duck Pond

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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In 1761, Judge Van Winkle constructed his house across the street from this pond. Today, the pond still bears his name. It's a pleasant spot to pause and admire the water, with cascades adding to its tranquil ambiance.

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This 103-acre park boasts meadows, greenways, miles of walkways, playgrounds, and various other amenities. It's particularly popular in the winter, drawing people who come to sled on its hills.

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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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When reaching this junction, consider taking Hawk Trail's switchbacks for a more gradual descent, adding 13 minutes but easing the steep downhill hike. In contrast, Summit Trail is one continuous steep drop without switchbacks. Choose your adventure based on your preferences.

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oliviakellis
October 9, 2023, High Mountain

At 879 feet, High Mountain is the Watchung Mountain range's tallest peak, revealing NYC skyline views on clear days along with panoramas of the surrounding landscape from its summit.

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j3f12
May 9, 2021, Wild Duck Pond

Nice place for a rest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available around Hawthorne?

There are over 20 easy hiking trails around Hawthorne, offering a variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels. In total, the area features 33 hiking routes.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes near Hawthorne?

Easy hikes around Hawthorne primarily feature urban parks, paved greenways, and accessible paths. You'll find gentle parkland, like that around Goffle Brook Park Pathway, and multi-use paved pathways such as the Beach Cities Greenway Trail, which offers coastal breezes. While many routes are relatively flat, some, like the Summit Trail Loop, include moderate elevation gains for varied scenery.

Are there any short, easy walks perfect for beginners or a quick escape?

Yes, for a quick and easy outdoor escape, consider the Wild Duck Pond Pathway. This short trail is only about 0.5 miles (0.7 km) and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, offering a peaceful stroll.

What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features I can find on easy hikes?

While many local easy trails focus on parkland, you can find scenic spots like the Wild Duck Pond, which is accessible via its namesake pathway. For broader views, the region's proximity to areas like Griffith Park offers routes with expansive city and coastal panoramas, though these may involve slightly more challenging sections.

Are there any easy loop trails around Hawthorne?

Yes, the Summit Trail Loop is a popular easy loop option, covering about 2.6 miles (4.1 km) with varied scenery. Another option is the Beech Mountain to Pancake Hollow Short Loop, which is around 3.4 miles (5.5 km) long.

What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Hawthorne?

The hiking routes in Hawthorne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility of local green spaces and the variety of urban parks and paved pathways that offer pleasant, easy excursions.

Are there any trails suitable for families with children?

Many of the easy trails in Hawthorne's local parks are ideal for families. Paths like the Wild Duck Pond Pathway and the Goffle Brook Park Pathway offer gentle, well-maintained surfaces perfect for a family outing.

Can I bring my dog on these easy hiking trails?

Hawthorne features a dedicated Hawthorne Dog Park for pets to exercise. Many local parks and paved greenways are generally dog-friendly, but 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.

Are there any lakes or rivers to see on easy hikes?

Yes, Bicentennial Park in Hawthorne features a peaceful lake with walking trails, offering a tranquil setting for a stroll. You can also visit the Wild Duck Pond, which is easily accessible. The Saddle River is also a notable natural feature in the broader area.

What are some nearby attractions or points of interest to explore after a hike?

After your hike, you can explore several local attractions. The Wild Duck Pond is a pleasant spot for relaxation. For a different perspective, the View of Paterson from Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook offers expansive vistas. Additionally, Barbour Pond provides another serene natural setting.

What is the best season for easy hikes around Hawthorne?

Hawthorne's mild Southern California climate makes it suitable for easy hikes year-round. Spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures, while winter can be mild and clear. Summer mornings are also great for avoiding the heat, especially on more exposed paths.

Are there any easy trails that are less crowded or considered hidden gems?

While specific 'hidden gems' can vary, exploring the smaller local parks like Jim Thorpe Park, Eucalyptus Park, or Glasgow Place might offer a quieter experience compared to more popular multi-use trails. These parks provide shorter walking paths and recreational amenities for community use.

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