The best traffic-free bike rides in Saddle River County Park
4.6
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244
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16
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Saddle River County Park are characterized by extensive paved pathways that follow the meandering Saddle River and its tributary brooks. This linear park, spanning nearly 600 acres, offers a car-free riding experience through diverse natural features. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for various skill levels. Cyclists will encounter picturesque ponds, wooded sections, open areas, and a notable waterfall, all along a well-maintained path.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Saddle River County Park
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Saddle River – Saddle River Pathway loop from Ridgewood High School, an 11.6 miles (18.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a continuous, car-free ride along the scenic Saddle River.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Saddle River County Park Path – Saddle River loop from Saddle Brook, an easy 11.0 miles (17.8 km) path. This route provides a smooth ride through varied landscapes, including wooded and open sections alongside the river and brooks.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Wild Duck Pond loop from Paramus, a 5.7 miles (9.1 km) trail leading through areas around the serene Wild Duck Pond, often completed in about 32 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Saddle River County Park is defined by its extensive paved paths, the scenic Saddle River, picturesque ponds, and a charming waterfall. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Saddle River County Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Saddle River County Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
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12
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9.13km
00:32
10m
10m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
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7.73km
00:34
10m
10m
The Saddle River loop from Saddle Brook offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding alongside the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. You'll enjoy a mix of wooded sections and open suburban areas, with notable features like the waterfall at Dunkerhook Park and the serene Wild Duck Pond. This easy 4.8-mile (7.7 km) route, with only 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, is predominantly paved and takes about 34 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed ride.
This family-friendly route is car-free due to overpasses, ensuring a safe environment for all riders. Remember that e-bikes are prohibited, and a 10 mph speed limit is enforced. The path is well-serviced with restrooms, public water fountains, and picnic areas, so you can easily make a day of it. It's a great option for beginner touring cycling or anyone looking for an easy, accessible outing.
The Saddle River County Park bike trail is part of a larger 577-acre linear park system, connecting several towns and offering a continuous multi-use path. While this specific loop is short, the broader network allows for longer rides, extending up to 13 miles (21 km) if you explore the various linked park areas. It's a fantastic resource for easy cycling routes in the Saddle River area, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities.
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9
riders
8.19km
00:36
10m
10m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
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9.47km
00:40
20m
20m
The Saddle River – Saddle River County Park Path loop from Fair Lawn offers a wonderfully smooth and accessible touring cycling experience. This easy 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route follows the Saddle River, providing a pleasant journey through a mix of wooded sections and open spaces. You'll find yourself on a well-maintained asphalt path, with notable features like the picturesque waterfall at Dunkerhook Park offering a scenic break.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the path is well-signed and features amenities like benches and picnic areas. While it's a popular cycling trail in Bergen County, NJ, especially on weekends, an early morning start can help you avoid the busiest times. Remember there's a 10 mph speed limit, and e-bikes are prohibited, ensuring a consistent experience for all users.
This multi-use path is a true local gem, connecting several towns and offering a continuous, flat route that's suitable for year-round use, even being plowed after snowstorms. Its connectivity and accessibility make it a favorite for family cycling or anyone seeking a relaxed ride without significant elevation changes, with only 60 feet (18 metres) of gain over its 39-minute duration.
5
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15.2km
01:01
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Saddle River County Park
Tips from the Community
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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The Saddle River County Park Path stretches from Duck Pond to Rochelle Park, traversing several parks along the Saddle River. Along the way, there are numerous spots to pause and relish the river view, with some areas even allowing you to dip your feet in the water.
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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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The majority of the river courses through popular suburban areas. It earns its name from a river in Scotland near Saddell. This section of the river winds its way through several parks, offering a delightful view of the flowing waters from this point.
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The Glen Rock Duck Pond section of the Saddle River Pathway is a small section of trail with accompanying park amenities. There is a decent amount of parking here, too.
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Saddle River County Park encompasses over 500 acres as it follows the banks of the Saddle River and a few of its branches. There is a great bike path that travels right through the middle of the park.
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The Red Mill, according to Wikipedia has the following story: “Easton Tower is a historic building located in the Arcola area of Paramus, New Jersey, and originally used as the housing for a water pump on the estate of businessman Edward D. Easton.”
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Runs North South along (you guessed it) the Saddle River from Ridgewood to Rochelle Park in Bergen County. There are nearly 8 miles of car-free, paved pathway, here, frequented by joggers and walkers as well as cyclists. Path is pleasant and shaded, and fairly smooth, with small bridges back and forth across the water. Wayfinding isn't great, with forks that lead to parking lots every so often, but those detours might get you a few extra miles if you don't mind.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free touring cycling routes are available in Saddle River County Park?
Saddle River County Park offers nearly 20 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes. These routes primarily utilize the park's extensive paved pathway, ensuring a safe and uninterrupted riding experience. Most of these routes are rated as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the traffic-free cycling paths?
The primary traffic-free cycling path in Saddle River County Park is a multi-use, paved concrete surface, approximately 6 to 6.8 miles (9.6 to 10.9 km) long. It's entirely car-free and well-maintained, often repaved. The path winds through both wooded and open areas alongside the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, offering a smooth ride with minimal elevation changes. There are also several underpass bridges that keep the ride continuous and free from road crossings.
Are there any circular routes for touring cyclists?
Yes, many of the routes in Saddle River County Park are designed as loops, providing a convenient circular experience. For example, you can enjoy the Saddle River – Saddle River Pathway loop from Ridgewood High School, which covers over 18 km, or the shorter Wild Duck Pond loop from Paramus, an easy 9 km ride.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?
The routes follow the scenic Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. You'll encounter several picturesque ponds, including the Wild Duck Pond in Ridgewood. A notable natural attraction is a scenic waterfall located in the Dunkerhook Area (Glen Rock section), which is a popular spot for photos. You might also spot the historic Easton Tower, a 20-foot-high rotary mill under Route 4 in the Paramus section.
Are the traffic-free cycling routes suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The car-free, paved pathways and minimal elevation make Saddle River County Park an excellent choice for family cycling. The park also features several playgrounds and picnic areas along the route, providing opportunities for breaks and other activities. The enforced 10 mph speed limit further enhances safety for all users.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Saddle River County Park?
Saddle River County Park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, while winter cycling is possible, but riders should be prepared for colder weather and potential ice. The path is well-maintained, making it accessible in most conditions.
Where can I park to access the traffic-free cycling paths?
The park offers numerous access points and parking lots along its linear expanse, from Ridgewood to Rochelle Park. Popular starting points include the Wild Duck Pond Area in Ridgewood and various points in Saddle Brook and Paramus. Specific parking details can often be found on the Bergen County Parks website for the most convenient access to the Saddle River Pathway South Entrance or other sections.
Are there any amenities like restrooms or water fountains along the route?
Yes, the Saddle River County Park path is well-equipped with amenities for cyclists. You'll find benches for resting, water fountains, and bathrooms conveniently located at various points along the route, ensuring a comfortable touring experience.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about Saddle River County Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's entirely car-free, smooth paved path, the serene natural beauty alongside the river and ponds, and the family-friendly atmosphere. The convenience of amenities like restrooms and picnic areas is also frequently highlighted.
Are e-bikes allowed on the traffic-free cycling paths?
Currently, e-bikes are prohibited on the traffic-free cycling paths within Saddle River County Park. The park enforces a 10 mph speed limit for all users to ensure safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Can I bring my dog on the cycling paths?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted in Saddle River County Park, including on the multi-use paths, provided they are kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check the specific park regulations on the Bergen County Parks website for any updates or specific area restrictions.
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