The best walks and hikes around Waldwick
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Hikes around Waldwick NJ provide access to a variety of landscapes, from serene river walks to forested park trails. The region is characterized by its network of county parks and nature preserves, featuring mostly flat, paved paths and gentle lakeside loops. Some reservations offer more varied terrain with modest elevation changes through wooded areas.
Best hiking trails around Waldwick
- The most popular hiking route is the Saddle River County Park Path — Saddle Brook, New Jersey, a 7.9 mile (12.7 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 10 minutes to complete. This route follows a paved, multi-use path along the Saddle River.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Preserve Shoreline Loop — Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve, an easy 1.6 mile (2.6 km) path. This trail circles a 75-acre lake within the Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Campgaw Mountain via Old Cedar Trail loop — Campgaw Mountain Reserve, a 2.4 mile (3.8 km) trail leading through a wooded park, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Waldwick is defined by riverside paths, lakeside loops, and forested trails in county reservations. The trail network offers options for different ability levels, with a large selection of easy, family-friendly routes.
- The routes in Waldwick are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Waldwick's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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hikers
31.7km
08:01
40m
50m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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hikers
2.48km
00:38
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
1
hikers
743m
00:11
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.41km
00:37
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20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.34km
00:35
0m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Waldwick
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 many family-friendly hikes around Waldwick?
Yes, the area is excellent for families. Many trails are flat and easy to navigate. A great option is the Celery Farm Natural Area loop — Allendale, New Jersey, which is a very gentle walk perfect for all ages. The Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve also features easy, flat trails around a scenic lake.
Can I bring my dog on the trails near Waldwick?
Most parks in the area, including Saddle River County Park and Ramapo Valley County Reservation, are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you go.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls in the area?
Yes, you can find waterfalls on some local trails. The Saddle River County Park path passes a scenic waterfall in the Dunkerhook Park section. For a more rugged experience, Ramapo Valley County Reservation also features a waterfall on one of its popular hiking loops.
What are some popular places to hike near Waldwick?
Local hikers enjoy a variety of parks and preserves. Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a large, popular park with diverse trails. For a more challenging hike with rewarding views, many visit Norvin Green State Forest, a highly-regarded spot known for its rocky trails. Another favorite is the Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve, which offers easy, scenic loops around a large lake.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
While most trails immediately around Waldwick are easy to moderate, you can find more challenging terrain nearby. Campgaw Mountain Reservation offers steeper trails with some elevation gain. For a truly strenuous hike, experienced hikers often head to the expansive trail systems in Ramapo Valley County Reservation or Norvin Green State Forest, which feature rugged, rocky paths and significant climbs to viewpoints like Wyanokie High Point.
What is the trail variety like around Waldwick?
The region offers a good mix of trail types. You'll find nearly 50 different routes, with about half being easy and the other half rated as moderate. The terrain ranges from paved, flat riverside paths in places like Saddle River County Park to more varied and hilly woodland trails in the mountain reservations.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are many loop trails so you don't have to backtrack. A pleasant, easy loop is the Goffle Brook Park via Van Winkles Pond — Hawthorne, New Jersey. The Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve is also centered around a popular shoreline loop trail.
Where can I find the best scenic views on a hike?
For impressive scenic vistas, head to the area's reservations. Trails in Ramapo Valley County Reservation lead to viewpoints like Hawk Rock, which can offer views of the New York City skyline on a clear day. The summit at Campgaw Mountain Reservation also provides lovely views of the surrounding landscape.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The trails around Waldwick are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere of the nature preserves, and the variety of scenery, from riverside walks to forested hills.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Most of the major parks and reservations, such as Saddle River County Park, Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve, and Ramapo Valley County Reservation, have designated parking areas. These can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
What kind of clothing or gear is best for hiking here?
For most trails, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. For the more rugged and rocky trails in places like Ramapo Mountain or Norvin Green State Forest, sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support are recommended. It's always a good idea to dress in layers, as weather can change, and bring water and a map, especially for the larger reservations with complex trail networks.
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