The best walks and hikes around Oakland
4.9
(68)
907
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking trails around Oakland offer a diverse range of outdoor experiences, primarily within the Ramapo Mountain State Forest. This region features varied terrain, including forested paths, lake views, and moderate elevation changes. The trails navigate through woodlands and around natural features like Ramapo Lake, providing opportunities for different skill levels.
Best hiking trails around Oakland
- The most popular hiking route is Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest, a 5.5 miles (8.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
13
hikers
13.7km
04:07
400m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
2.21km
00:44
130m
0m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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2
hikers
6.01km
01:47
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
8.07km
02:27
190m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(7)
56
hikers
8.79km
02:36
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Ramapo Lake offers spectacular views over the water and surrounding rock formations. It's also a popular place for anglers and paddlers to get out on the water, although swimming is prohibited.
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The MacEvoy Trail is a short spur trail that helps connect the parking lot off of Skyline Drive to the Ramapo Lake Trail. This trail is open to mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners and is tucked in the trees pretty much the entire time.
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This is a beautiful 120-acre lake. A great spot to take a break.
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At 912 feet, Millstone Hill's summit provides sweeping views overlooking the Ramapo River to the southeast, offering a breathtaking vantage point above the winding waterway below.
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When the trail reaches a stone wall overlooking the lake at water level, take in the beautiful views of Todd Lake from this scenic rock ledge viewpoint. The trail continues parallel to the lake, giving you an up-close perspective of the tranquil waters and surrounding scenery.
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Nice ruin, the way up is also cool to walk, a real trail. Unfortunately, the walls below are all sprayed. What a pity!
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This is a beautiful 120-acre lake. A great spot to take a break.
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The Van Slyke Castle was a mansion built in the 20th century by stockbroker William Porter. It was meant to look like a castle, hence the name.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I expect around Oakland?
Hiking trails around Oakland primarily feature forested paths, scenic lake circuits, and moderate hills within the Ramapo Mountain State Forest. You'll find a diverse range of terrain, offering options from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes.
How many hiking routes are available in the Oakland area?
There are over 15 hiking routes available around Oakland, catering to various skill levels. This includes 5 easy trails, 12 moderate options, and 1 difficult route for experienced hikers.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Oakland?
Yes, Oakland offers several easy trails suitable for families. A great option is the Lookout Trail Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest, which is 3.1 miles long and features gentle gradients through the forest, leading to a scenic lookout point. Another easy choice is the Tamarack Loop via Purple Trail — Ramapo Mountain State Forest, a shorter 1.5-mile path through dense woodlands.
What are some popular circular hiking routes in Oakland?
Many trails in Oakland are designed as loops, offering convenient circular hikes. The Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest is a popular moderate option, providing scenic views around the lake. For a more challenging loop, consider the Matapan Rock, Lake Vreeland, Millstone Hill via Cannonball Trail loop.
Are there any waterfalls or scenic viewpoints along the hiking trails?
Yes, you can find both waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. The Chikahoki Falls is a notable waterfall in the area. For panoramic views, consider visiting Wyanokie High Point or the Pirie Platform at Celery Farm Natural Area.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I explore near Oakland's hiking trails?
Beyond the trails, you can explore several interesting landmarks. The historic Van Slyke Castle Ruins are a popular point of interest. You can also visit the MacMillan Reservoir Dam or enjoy the natural beauty of Ramapo Lake and the Ramapo River.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Oakland?
The hiking experience in Oakland is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the beautiful lake views, and the well-maintained forested paths that offer options for all ability levels.
Are there any trails that feature lakes or water bodies?
Absolutely. Ramapo Lake is a central feature of many hikes. The Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest offers continuous scenic views of the lake. You can also find other water bodies like Glasmere Ponds in the vicinity.
What is the longest moderate hike available in Oakland?
One of the longer moderate hikes is the Ramapo Lake Loop – Ramapo Mountain State Forest, which spans 5.5 miles (8.8 km) and typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes to complete.
Can I find trails that lead to historical sites?
Yes, you can combine hiking with exploring historical sites. The Van Slyke Castle Ruins – Ramapo Lake loop from Oakland is a moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) hike that takes you to the fascinating Van Slyke Castle Ruins.
Most popular attractions around Oakland
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