The best walks and hikes around Woodcliff Lake
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Hiking around Woodcliff Lake is characterized by routes that navigate through local parks and alongside serene reservoirs. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for a range of fitness levels. The area's landscape consists of woodlands, wetlands, and well-maintained paths, including several that follow the shores of the Woodcliff Lake and Oradell Reservoirs.
Best hiking trails around Woodcliff Lake
- The most popular hiking route is the Saddle River County Park Path, a 7.9 mile (12.7 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 10 minutes to complete. This route follows a paved path through the linear park system.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Oradell Reservoir via Lake Shore Drive loop, an easy 2.1 mile (3.3 km) path. This is a short walk along the reservoir, ideal for a quick outing.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Celery Farm Natural Area loop, a 1.6 mile (2.6 km) trail leading through a freshwater wetland, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Hiking trails near Woodcliff Lake NJ are defined by gentle reservoir-side paths, paved park trails, and loops through nature preserves. The network offers accessible options for easy family walks as well as longer, moderate hikes.
- The routes in Woodcliff Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a number of reviews. More than 130 hikers have used komoot to explore Woodcliff Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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31.7km
08:01
40m
50m
Hike the 19.7-mile Saddle River County Park Bike Path, a difficult route with 147 feet of elevation gain and riverside views.
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4.09km
01:02
10m
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Hike the easy 2.5-mile Emerson Woods Preserve Trail through a maturing forest, past wetlands, and to views of the Oradell Reservoir.
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5.0
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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.
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.
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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.
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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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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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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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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 any easy, family-friendly hikes near Woodcliff Lake?
Yes, the area is great for family outings. The Celery Farm Natural Area loop is an excellent choice. It's a short, flat walk through a freshwater wetland, perfect for little legs and offers great opportunities for birdwatching.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Dog policies vary by park. For a reliable dog-friendly option, consider the Ramapo Valley County Reservation, which is known for its rugged trails and dog-friendly walking paths where your furry friend is welcome.
What should I know about the new walking path at the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir?
The path along the Woodcliff Lake Reservoir is part of Veolia's Watershed Recreation Program. It's a scenic, flat trail of about 1.25 miles, ideal for a leisurely walk. Access is generally for permit holders, and activities like fishing and bird watching are also popular here. Be aware that it is primarily a walking path and not a rugged hiking trail.
Are there any options for a longer, more challenging hike?
While many local trails are gentle, you can find more moderate options. The Saddle River County Park Path offers a longer distance of nearly 8 miles, though it is mostly flat. For more of a challenge with some elevation, the trails at Ramapo Valley County Reservation are a popular choice among local hikers.
Can I find any hikes with waterfalls in the area?
Yes, for a chance to see a waterfall, especially after it rains or snows, head to Ramapo Valley County Reservation. Some trails within this large park lead to scenic water features, making it a popular destination for those seeking more than just a walk in the woods.
Are there any good circular walks available?
Absolutely. Many trails in the area are loops, making for convenient hikes. The Wild Duck Pond loop is a moderate circular route that takes you through local parkland. For an easier option, the G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve offers a highly-regarded flat loop trail around a peaceful lake.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails around Woodcliff Lake?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the serene atmosphere of the reservoir-side paths and the accessibility of the well-maintained trails in the local parks.
Where can I find a good paved trail?
Saddle River County Park features a well-maintained, paved path that runs through the park system. This makes it an excellent choice for those with strollers, wheelchairs, or anyone looking for a smooth, level surface for a walk or bike ride.
What kind of hiking is available at Flat Rock Brook Nature Center?
Flat Rock Brook Nature Center offers a network of forested hiking trails that lead to streams, meadows, and a pond. It's a well-regarded spot for seeing wildlife and is particularly popular with families, thanks to its accessible trails and a nature-themed playground.
How many hiking trails are there around Woodcliff Lake?
There are about 10 curated hiking routes available in this guide, ranging from easy walks to more moderate hikes. The broader Bergen County area offers an extensive park system with many more trails to explore.
Is it easy to park near the trailheads?
Most of the larger parks and reservations, such as Saddle River County Park and Ramapo Valley County Reservation, have designated parking areas. For smaller trails or reservoir paths, parking may be more limited, so it's always a good idea to check specific access rules and arrive early on weekends.
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