Easy hikes and walks around Woodcliff Lake
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Easy hiking trails around Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, are characterized by generally flat terrain with minimal elevation gain, making them accessible for various fitness levels. The region features serene reservoirs, local parks, woodlands, and wetlands. These natural features provide diverse scenery for outdoor activities. The landscape is well-suited for gentle walks and moderate hikes.
Best easy hiking trails around Woodcliff Lake
- The most popular easy hiking route is Joseph B. Clarke Rail-Trail, a 4.6 miles (7.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes to complete. This path offers a straightforward route through the local area.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Emerson Woods Preserve Trail, an easy 2.5 miles (4.1 km) path. This route navigates through woodlands, providing a natural setting.
- Local hikers also love the PSE&G Path and Dunham Trail, a 1.5 miles (2.3 km) trail leading along the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Woodcliff Lake is defined by serene reservoirs, local parks, and diverse woodlands. The network offers options for various ability levels, particularly focusing on easy routes.
- The routes in Woodcliff Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 9 reviews. More than 140 hikers have used komoot to explore Woodcliff Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
3.0
(1)
4
hikers
4.09km
01:02
10m
10m
Hike the easy 2.5-mile Emerson Woods Preserve Trail through a maturing forest, past wetlands, and to views of the Oradell Reservoir.
5.0
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1
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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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2.34km
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.
1.76km
00:27
0m
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The Bonnabel Nature Path offers an easy hike through a mix of dense woodlands and open meadows, where you can enjoy the shade of mature oak and maple trees. As you walk, you will find a picturesque pond about halfway through the 1.1-mile (1.8 km) route, often visited by ducks and turtles. This trail involves a gentle 11 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 26 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to the Bonnabel Nature Path is straightforward, as parking is generally available directly at Bonnabel Nature Park. The route is welcoming for a wide range of hikers, including families looking for an accessible outdoor experience. If you bring your dog along, please remember to keep them on a leash to ensure everyone enjoys the natural setting.
This trail is a great option for a quick escape into nature, offering chances to spot local wildlife like deer or woodpeckers. It provides a tranquil environment within the park, making it a notable spot for those seeking a peaceful walk. The path's easy difficulty makes it suitable for almost anyone wanting to connect with the outdoors.
2
hikers
3.35km
00:51
10m
10m
Enjoy an easy 2.1-mile hike along the Oradell Reservoir, offering tranquil waterside views and opportunities for birdwatching.
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Tips from the Community
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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Lake Shore Drive is a great gravel road that runs along Oradell Reservoir. Along the path, there are several clearings in the trees, which give you a good view of the water.
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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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This trail offers a mostly flat hike through a lush forest on hard-packed dirt. It meanders along the southern shore of Oradell Reservoir, providing occasional water views along the way.
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The Oradell Dam forms this freshwater reservoir, which feeds the Lower Hackensack River. Created to supply drinking water to over 800,000 people, it holds 29.4 billion gallons of water. This spot offers a nice view of the crystal-clear water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Woodcliff Lake?
There are 11 easy hiking trails around Woodcliff Lake, offering accessible options for various fitness levels. In total, the area features 16 hiking routes, with the majority being easy.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on easy hikes in Woodcliff Lake?
Easy hikes in Woodcliff Lake often feature serene reservoirs, local parks, woodlands, and wetlands. You can enjoy picturesque views of the Oradell Reservoir and the Wild Duck Pond, as well as the prominent Woodcliff Lake Reservoir itself.
Are there any family-friendly easy trails in Woodcliff Lake?
Yes, Woodcliff Lake offers several family-friendly easy trails. The PSE&G Path and Dunham Trail, which follows the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, is particularly suitable for families and dog walkers. The generally flat terrain of the region makes most easy routes suitable for all ages.
Are there any dog-friendly easy hiking trails in the area?
Many of the easy trails around Woodcliff Lake are dog-friendly. The PSE&G Path and Dunham Trail is a great option for walking with your dog. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow local regulations.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Woodcliff Lake?
Spring and autumn are considered the best times to visit Woodcliff Lake for hiking. Spring offers vibrant blossoms and lush greenery, while autumn provides breathtaking foliage displays. The mild weather during these seasons is ideal for enjoying the trails.
Are there any short, easy loop trails for a quick outing?
Yes, for a quick outing, the Celery Farm Natural Area offers a 1.6-mile loop trail through a freshwater wetland, typically completed in about 40 minutes. While not listed in the guide's routes, it's a popular local option for a short, easy walk. The Wild Duck Pond Pathway is also a very short, easy option.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Woodcliff Lake?
The easy trails in Woodcliff Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 9 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible, generally flat terrain, the serene reservoir views, and the natural settings of woodlands and wetlands that characterize the routes.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the easy trails?
While the trails themselves focus on natural beauty, the nearby Woodcliff Lake Historic Park holds historical significance. It encompasses remnants of the Van Riper-Hopper House, an 18th-century Dutch Colonial homestead that served as a headquarters for General George Washington during the Revolutionary War. You can explore its natural surroundings and walking trails.
Which easy trail is good for a longer walk?
For a longer easy walk, consider the Joseph B. Clarke Rail-Trail. It's a 4.6-mile (7.3 km) path that offers a straightforward route through the local area, taking approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes to complete.
Are there any easy trails that go through woodlands?
Yes, the Emerson Woods Preserve Trail is an easy 2.5-mile (4.1 km) path that navigates through woodlands, providing a natural and immersive setting for your hike.
Can I find easy trails with minimal elevation gain?
Absolutely. The easy hiking trails around Woodcliff Lake are characterized by generally flat terrain with minimal elevation gain. Routes like the Darlington Park Trail and the Wild Duck Pond Pathway have very little elevation change, making them ideal for those seeking a gentle walk.
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