The best walks and hikes around Ridgewood
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Hiking around Ridgewood offers routes that primarily follow local waterways and traverse parks in Bergen County. The terrain is characterized by paved pathways, gentle gradients, and wooded areas alongside rivers and ponds. These hikes near Ridgewood NJ are generally low-elevation, making them accessible for various activity levels. The region features diverse trail systems within parks like Saddle River County Park and local nature walks.
Best hiking trails around Ridgewood
- The most popular hiking route is Saddle River County Park Bike Path, a 19.7 miles (31.7 km) trail that takes about 8 hours to complete. This route follows a paved path with minimal elevation change.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Goffle Brook Park Pathway, an easy 1.5 miles (2.4 km) path. This route extends through the park system, offering a pleasant walk.
- Local hikers also love the PSE&G Path and Dunham Trail, a 1.5 miles (2.3 km) trail leading through wooded areas, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Ridgewood is defined by riverside paths, nature preserves, and county park trail systems. The network provides options for both short walks and longer, more continuous routes.
- The routes in Ridgewood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 230 hikers have used komoot to explore Ridgewood's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
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31.7km
08:01
40m
50m
Hike the 19.7-mile Saddle River County Park Bike Path, a difficult route with 147 feet of elevation gain and riverside views.
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743m
00:11
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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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2.41km
00:37
0m
20m
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
2.34km
00:35
0m
10m
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.
590m
00:09
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Easy 0.4-mile hike on a paved path around Glen Rock Duck Pond in Saddle River County Park, perfect for a quick stroll.
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Tips from the Community
Keep your eyes open and you'll spot it through the trees. There are no signs marking it. The berms are really small so they'd be good fun for small kids.
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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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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Ridgewood area?
Yes, the region has many accessible trails perfect for families. A great option is the Preserve Shoreline Loop — Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve. It's a short, gentle walk around a lake that's ideal for all ages and skill levels.
Can I take my dog on the hiking trails near Ridgewood?
Many parks in the area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary, so it's always best to check for local signage. The trails within Saddle River County Park are a popular choice for dog walkers, provided dogs are kept on a leash.
Where can I find a good circular walk?
For a convenient loop, consider the Saddle River via Saddle River Pathway loop — Saddle River County Park. This route follows a paved path through the park, making for a straightforward and enjoyable circuit without the need to retrace your steps.
Are there any hiking trails with waterfalls near Ridgewood?
Yes, you can find waterfalls in the area. A notable spot is the Saddle River Park Waterfall, located along the Saddle River Pathway. It's an accessible and scenic feature to enjoy during a walk in the park.
What are the trail surfaces like around Ridgewood?
The trails immediately around Ridgewood, particularly in places like Saddle River County Park, are predominantly paved multi-use paths. This makes them suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling. As you venture into nearby reservations like Norvin Green State Forest, the terrain becomes more natural and rocky.
Where can I find more challenging hikes near Ridgewood?
While most local trails are easy to moderate, you can find more rugged terrain a short drive away. Norvin Green State Forest is known for its rocky paths and elevation changes, offering a greater challenge. Wyanokie High Point also provides a more strenuous climb with rewarding views.
Is there a good trail for birdwatching?
The Celery Farm Natural Area loop — Allendale, New Jersey is an excellent choice. This nature preserve features freshwater wetlands that attract a wide variety of bird species, making it a local favorite for birding.
What is a good longer hike in the area?
If you're looking for more distance, the Saddle River County Park Path — Saddle Brook, New Jersey is a great option. It's a moderate out-and-back route that extends for nearly 8 miles, allowing you to cover a significant portion of the park system.
Where is the best place to park for hiking?
Most of the major parks and preserves have dedicated parking areas. For hikes in Saddle River County Park, the Wild Duck Pond area has a well-known lot. Ramapo Valley County Reservation and Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve also have their own parking facilities near the trailheads.
What is the best time of year to hike around Ridgewood?
Hiking is possible year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and trout fishing along the brooks, while autumn provides spectacular fall foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, so early morning hikes are recommended. Winter is quieter, but be prepared for icy conditions on the trails.
Are there any trails with scenic views or viewpoints?
For impressive views, you'll want to head to the nearby highlands. A hike to Wanaque Ridge can reward you with amazing vistas and a view of a stone castle structure. For dramatic cliffside scenery overlooking the Hudson River, Palisades Interstate Park is just a short drive away.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Ridgewood?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved paths along the rivers and the peaceful atmosphere of the local nature preserves. The accessibility for different fitness levels is also a frequently mentioned highlight.
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