Ramapo River – MacMillan Reservoir Dam loop from Ramapo College of New Jersey
Ramapo River – MacMillan Reservoir Dam loop from Ramapo College of New Jersey
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hikers
Ramapo River – MacMillan Reservoir Dam loop from Ramapo College of New Jersey
01:59
6.90km
160m
Hiking
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Ramapo Valley County Reservation
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
287 m
Ramapo River
Highlight • River
Tip by
1.92 km
MacMillan Reservoir Dam
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
4.89 km
MacMillan Reservoir
Lake
5.32 km
MacMillan Brook
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.33 km
Scarlet Oak Pond
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.90 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.33 km
2.57 km
Surfaces
2.31 km
2.04 km
1.97 km
586 m
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Elevation
Highest point (220 m)
Lowest point (70 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
27°C
19°C
33 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible and rewarding outdoor escape near Ramapo College, the Ramapo River – MacMillan Reservoir Dam loop from Ramapo College of New Jersey is a fantastic choice. This easy hiking route covers 4.3 miles (6.9 km) with 539 feet (164 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just under 2 hours to complete. It's an ideal option for beginners or anyone seeking diverse scenery without a strenuous climb, offering a high-payoff experience for minimal effort.
What to expect on Ramapo River – MacMillan Reservoir Dam loop from Ramapo College of New Jersey
This loop takes you on a journey through varied terrain, showcasing the natural beauty of the Ramapo Valley County Reservation. You'll encounter rocky sections, gentle hills, and multiple stream crossings, often requiring careful steps over rocks or logs. Parts of the path are paved, especially on ascents toward the MacMillan Reservoir, which offers picturesque views from its dam. Keep an eye out for dense vegetation, significant rock outcroppings, and ledges that provide scenic viewpoints like Hawk Rock or Cactus Ledge. The trail also follows the Ramapo River, crosses footbridges, and passes Scarlet Oak Pond, ensuring a constantly changing landscape. While rated easy, the varied terrain means you'll still feel like you've had a proper hike, making it suitable for those new to hiking trails near Ramapo College MacMillan Reservoir.
Planning your visit
The Ramapo Valley County Reservation is easily accessible from Ramapo College, serving as the gateway to this loop. Parking is available at the reservation, though it can fill up quickly on busy weekends, so an early start is always a good idea. The area is very dog-friendly, but remember to keep your furry friends on a leash. This loop is enjoyable in most seasons, with autumn offering spectacular foliage and spring bringing lush greenery, making it a great choice for a family friendly hike.
Trail details
- Distance: 4.3 miles (6.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 539 feet (164 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 59 minutes
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