Top 7 Lakes around Upper Saddle River

Around Upper Saddle River, you'll find a mix of smaller, tranquil ponds within the borough and significant reservoirs just a short drive away. While the immediate area is known for residential green spaces, nearby larger lakes offer more extensive recreational opportunities. Examples include the peaceful Wild Duck Pond and the expansive Lake Tappan.

Yes, for a peaceful retreat, consider visiting Wild Duck Pond. It's a lovely park area where you can unwind by the water, often seeing families having picnics or observing local wildlife. Liberty Park Reflection Pond is another tranquil spot along the west branch of the Saddle River, perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet contemplation.

Wild Duck Pond was originally constructed around 1927 to be flooded for a winter ice skating rink. Today, it's a peaceful park area popular for picnics and observing local wildlife like ducks, turtles, and various bird species. It's also a dog-friendly location.

Yes, Lake Tappan is a significant reservoir located very close to Upper Saddle River, spanning the boundary of New Jersey and New York. The road runs directly alongside the lake, offering excellent views. You can also find specific stretches like Lake Tappen: Washington Ave North to Blue Hill Road which provide waterfront views and smooth pavement for cycling.

The MacMillan Reservoir Dam is a man-made monument constructed of concrete faced with stone, spanning about 250 feet long and rising 20 feet tall. It holds back the reservoir's contents, with only a thin veil of water typically trickling over its spillway. It's located in the Ramapo Valley County Reservation.

Yes, several spots are considered family-friendly. Wild Duck Pond is a popular choice for families enjoying picnics and observing wildlife. Lake Tappan and its surrounding areas also offer family-friendly viewpoints and cycling paths.

At places like Wild Duck Pond, you can often spot ducks, turtles, and various bird species. The green spaces and tranquil water bodies in the region provide habitats for local wildlife, making them good spots for nature observation.

Yes, the road running directly next to Lake Tappan offers excellent views of the reservoir. Additionally, Hawk Rock Viewpoint provides panoramic views of the Ramapo Valley Reservation's northern section, with Lake Henry visible below, and spectacular fall foliage.

Absolutely. There are several cycling opportunities. For instance, the stretch of road along the west side of Lake Tappan, specifically Lake Tappen: Washington Ave North to Blue Hill Road, offers waterfront views with smooth pavement and limited car traffic. You can find more cycling routes in the area by checking out the Cycling around Upper Saddle River guide.

Yes, the area offers various running trails. While not directly adjacent to every lake, you can find routes that incorporate scenic views or are a short distance away. For specific options, explore the Running Trails around Upper Saddle River guide, which includes several loops of varying difficulty.

Wild Duck Pond is noted as a dog-friendly location, making it a great spot to enjoy with your canine companion.

While the lakes offer beauty year-round, autumn is particularly stunning for scenic views, especially from viewpoints like Hawk Rock Viewpoint, which displays spectacular foliage in vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow.