The best running trails around Paterson

The Garret Mountain Yellow Trail Loop is a dynamic jogging route that feels surprisingly rugged despite its urban proximity. You'll navigate a mix of dirt paths, rocky sections, and even some paved stretches, all while enjoying the serene waters of Barbour Pond and the wooded surroundings. The highlight for many is the chance to catch impressive, sweeping views of the New York City skyline from various overlooks, making it a rewarding experience for a relatively short effort.

This moderate 3.1-mile (5.0 km) loop involves 164 feet (50 metres) of elevation gain, which you can typically complete in about 37 minutes. The trail is well-marked with yellow blazes, ensuring easy navigation. While specific parking details aren't highlighted, planning your visit for a clear day will maximize your chances of enjoying those iconic skyline views.

What truly sets this trail apart is its blend of natural beauty and historical context. Designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers Firm, known for Central Park, the reservation offers an unexpected escape. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the park as a significant stopover point for over 150 species of migrating birds, adding another layer of interest to your run.

This 3.1-mile (5.1 km) loop, rated moderate for jogging, offers a quick 31-minute escape into nature, tracing the banks of the Saddle River and its tributary brooks. You'll enjoy a mix of wooded and open parkland, with marshy sections and ponds adding to the diverse natural features of Saddle Brook trails. The paved surfaces make for smooth running, and the minimal 16 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain means it's more about steady movement than strenuous climbing.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is part of the larger Saddle River County Park system, known for its excellent trail conditions. The entire network is car-free, utilizing underpass bridges for uninterrupted travel, and features amenities like benches, restrooms, and water fountains. The trails are well-maintained, even cleared of snow, making it a reliable option for jogging in the Saddle Brook area throughout the year.

The park's varied landscapes, including woods and marshes, provide opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer, frogs, and even snapping turtles. This loop is a segment of a much larger 6.5-mile paved pathway, offering connectivity for longer runs and making it one of the best jogging trails near Saddle Brook, NJ, for those who appreciate a safe, multi-use environment.

The Packanack Lake – East Beach loop from Preakness offers a delightful jogging experience, winding through a vibrant community with continuous views of the water. You'll enjoy mostly paved surfaces, making for a consistent run, while the lush greenery of spring and fall adds to the picturesque scenery. The highlight is East Beach, a serene spot with soft white sand, perfect for a moment of calm before continuing your journey around the lake.

This moderate 5.1-mile (8.2 km) loop involves a manageable 257 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 52 minutes to complete. While specific parking details for the Packanack Lake – East Beach loop from Preakness jogging trail are not provided, the area is known for its amenities, especially around East Beach. Consider visiting during spring or fall to catch the best of the natural beauty, and arriving earlier in the day might help secure a spot.

This route is part of the active Packanack Lake community in Wayne, New Jersey, known for its rolling woodlands and opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer and various bird species. The trail network around Packanack Lake is highly rated, offering a charming natural escape that feels both accessible and engaging for those seeking scenic circular walks in the area.