The best walks and hikes around Woodcliff Lake

The Emerson Woods Preserve Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a maturing 19-acre forest, providing a peaceful escape right in Emerson, New Jersey. As you follow the 2.5-mile (4.1 km) route, you'll traverse mostly flat dirt tracks and natural surfaces, with just 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for nearly everyone. Keep an eye out for glimpses of the Oradell Reservoir through the trees and listen for the diverse birdlife, including woodpeckers and thrushes, that call this preserve home. In spring, the wetlands and vernal ponds are particularly vibrant, hosting lively spring peepers.

Planning your visit to the Emerson Woods Preserve Trail is straightforward, as it's an easy route that typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete. The preserve is dog-friendly, so your canine companion can join you on this gentle adventure. There are no permits or fees required, and the trail is well-suited for a casual stroll at any time of day, though mornings often offer the quietest experience. Parking is generally available, making trailhead access simple for visitors.

This preserve is a testament to local conservation efforts, preserving a valuable second-growth forest that acts as a protective filter for the Oradell Reservoir's water supply. A notable feature is the self-guided nature trail, which includes 18 distinct points of interest, allowing you to learn more about the local flora and fauna as you walk. It's a fantastic option for families, nature enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a short, educational, and easy outdoor activity.

The Saddle River County Park Bike Path offers a unique hiking experience, stretching for a substantial 19.7 miles (31.7 km) alongside the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. You'll traverse a mostly paved, multi-use pathway that alternates between open stretches and pleasant wooded sections, with notable features like the scenic waterfall at Dunkerhook Park. Despite its generally flat terrain, the sheer length makes this a difficult 8-hour hike, perfect for those seeking a long-distance endurance challenge rather than steep climbs.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is well-maintained and accessible year-round, even plowed after snowstorms. It seamlessly connects five park areas, offering a continuous, car-free environment with amenities like restrooms and water fountains along the way. This makes it a great option for families or anyone looking for a safe, uninterrupted long walk, and leashed dogs are welcome.

This trail stands out for its impressive connectivity and accessibility, utilizing overpasses and underpasses to create a truly car-free journey through Bergen County. It's a vibrant community space, popular with cyclists, runners, and walkers alike, and provides a fantastic opportunity to observe local wildlife such as deer and various birds in its wooded and marshy sections. The path also passes by the historic Easton Tower, adding a touch of local history to your long-distance trek.

The Wild Duck Pond Pathway offers a tranquil escape into nature, even for a short stroll. You'll follow a smooth, paved path that meanders past the reflective Wild Duck Pond, where local wildlife like ducks and turtles are often seen enjoying the water. The route also traces the banks of the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, moving through shaded wooded sections and open marshy stretches dotted with reeds, creating a varied and calming atmosphere.

Planning your visit to this easy 0.5-mile (0.7 km) hike, which takes about 11 minutes with only 3 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, is straightforward. The pathway is part of a larger, well-maintained park system that includes amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and restrooms. It's a great option for a quick outing, and the park's underpass bridges mean you can avoid crossing busy roads, enhancing the peaceful experience.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its integration into a much larger, continuous park system in Bergen County, New Jersey. While this specific segment is short and easy, it connects to a 10.6-mile (17.1 km) looped trail, offering extensive exploration for those who want to extend their adventure. The thoughtful design and abundant amenities make it a standout choice for an accessible and enjoyable outdoor experience.

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.