4.7
(3)
162
runners
28
runs
Jogging routes around William Paterson University Of New Jersey offer a diverse landscape for runners, characterized by an expansive, hilly, and wooded campus. The region provides immediate access to significant natural preserves, including the nearly 1,200-acre High Mountain Park Preserve with its forested land and wetlands. Nearby, Garret Mountain Reservation features miles of trails, Barbour Pond, and impressive views of the New York City skyline, creating varied terrain for running.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
3
runners
5.05km
00:37
50m
50m
Jog the Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop, a moderate 3.1-mile route with NYC skyline views, Barbour Pond, and historical landmarks.
29
runners
5.32km
00:36
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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21
runners
8.25km
00:52
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
3.25km
00:22
50m
50m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
runners
5.70km
00:35
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Great view from Garret Mountain Reservation of the New York City Skyline. There are several spots in the park where you can catch a glimpse, but this is one of the most popular spots.
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Garret Mountain Reservation is a 300-acre park that is a popular spot for a variety of recreational activities. There are miles of trails for hikers and trail runners in the park, as well as two historical sites: Lambert Castle and Lambert Tower.
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Barbour Pond is the largest body of water in Garret Mountain Reservation. There is a trail that runs along the banks of the pond, so you can get a good view of the water during your run.
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Barbour Pond is the biggest reservoir within the Garret Mountain Reservation. The park features hiking trails that travel on both sides of Barbour Pond and are often utilized by those looking to fish the waters. There are a couple cool overlooks of the pond just off the side of the trail.
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There are over 25 running routes documented on komoot around William Paterson University Of New Jersey, offering a diverse range of options for runners. These include 2 easy routes, 22 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, catering to various fitness levels.
Yes, there are easy running routes available. For instance, the Running loop from Paterson is an easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) trail that leads through urban and park areas, often completed in about 22 minutes. The William Paterson University campus itself also offers varied terrain suitable for different fitness levels.
Absolutely! Many routes offer impressive scenery. The Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop, for example, provides stunning views of the New York City skyline. Within Garret Mountain Reservation, you can also pass historical landmarks like Lambert Castle and Lambert Tower. Additionally, the university campus features three ponds, and Buttermilk Falls, a 40 to 45-foot waterfall, is located near Entry 6 of the campus, offering a unique natural attraction.
Yes, many of the popular running paths are circular. The Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop is a well-known circular route. Another excellent option is the Barbour Pond loop from Woodland Park, which circles Barbour Pond and offers scenic views.
The region offers a diverse range of terrain. William Paterson University's campus is expansive, hilly, and wooded, featuring a certified 5K course with a mix of inclines and descents. The adjacent High Mountain Park Preserve provides extensive trails through forested land and wetlands. Garret Mountain Reservation also features varied elevation and diverse scenery, ensuring a challenging and engaging run for all levels.
Yes, the area boasts several points of interest. In Garret Mountain Reservation, you can enjoy the View of Paterson from Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook and jog alongside Barbour Pond. The university campus itself has three ponds, including Oldham Pond, and the impressive Buttermilk Falls. You might also encounter the Wild Duck Pond in the vicinity.
The running routes in this area are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from 3 reviews. Over 100 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes, from hilly campus grounds to expansive forested preserves and scenic ponds, with some routes even offering views of the New York City skyline.
For those seeking longer distances, the Packanack Lake – East Beach loop from Preakness offers a moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) path. The extensive trail networks within the nearly 1,200-acre High Mountain Park Preserve also provide ample opportunities to combine sections for longer, more challenging runs.
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points for the major preserves and parks. For instance, Garret Mountain Reservation has designated parking areas. On the William Paterson University campus, visitors can find parking, though it's advisable to check university guidelines for visitor parking.
Both High Mountain Park Preserve and Garret Mountain Reservation are generally dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on their trails. However, it's always recommended to check the specific rules and regulations of each park or preserve before your visit, as policies can vary and may be subject to change.
The region offers enjoyable running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer mornings and evenings are ideal to avoid the heat, while winter running can be scenic, though some trails might require appropriate footwear due to snow or ice. The varied terrain ensures there's always a suitable option regardless of the season.
Many of the trails, particularly the flatter sections around areas like Joe Grill field or the less strenuous loops within the university campus, can be suitable for families. The Running loop from Paterson is an easy option that could be enjoyed by families. For specific family-friendly recommendations, look for routes marked as 'easy' difficulty.


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