The best walks and hikes around Ringwood

The High Point Spur, Den, Circular, Highlands, and High Point Trail offers a true taste of the New Jersey Highlands, winding through dense forests and over rugged, rocky terrain. You'll navigate relentless ascents and descents, passing by the beautiful Chikahoki Falls and reaching the Carris Hill Overlook. The highlight is undoubtedly the expansive view from Wyanokie High Point, where on a clear day, you can even spot the distant New York City skyline.

This moderate 7.9-mile (12.8 km) hiking route involves 1357 feet (414 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 52 minutes. Parking is available at designated trailheads within Norvin Green State Forest. It's advisable to check park advisories for any closures or conditions before your visit, and be prepared for challenging footing in some areas.

What makes this route stand out is its combination of diverse natural features and panoramic vistas, integrating sections of the well-known Highlands Trail. The trail provides a strenuous workout and a real sense of accomplishment, especially upon reaching the stunning viewpoints. It's a popular choice for those seeking challenging hikes in Norvin Green State Forest.

The High Point, Wyanokie Circular, and Lower Trail Loop offers a rugged and scenic adventure through Norvin Green State Forest. You'll traverse rocky, often steep terrain, including sections that require scrambling, as you make your way to Wyanokie High Point. From there, you're treated to expansive 360-degree views that sweep across the Wanaque Reservoir and, on a clear day, even reveal the distant New York City skyline. This moderate 5.1-mile (8.1 km) hike, with 986 feet (301 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to experience the area's wild beauty in about 2 hours and 29 minutes.

Planning your visit means preparing for varied conditions; the trail can be wet and eroded after rain, so sturdy hiking boots are a must. While there are no specific permits required for this area, arriving early is always a good idea, especially on weekends, to secure parking and enjoy a more peaceful experience. This loop is best suited for hikers who are comfortable with challenging terrain and want to earn their views.

This trail is a prime example of the diverse and challenging hiking available in Norvin Green State Forest, a region known for its extensive trail system. Beyond the panoramic vistas, you'll discover unique features like the Carris Hill Overlook, dense rhododendron tunnels, and remnants of the area's iron mining history, such as the Blue Mine. It's a rewarding experience that combines natural beauty with a touch of local heritage.

The Manor Trail in Ringwood, New Jersey, provides a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience, perfect for a relaxed walk. This easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike features a modest 258 feet (79 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You can expect a generally smooth path through natural surroundings, offering a serene escape from daily life.

Planning your visit to the Manor Trail is straightforward; it's a great option for a quick outing any time of year, though spring and autumn often provide the most comfortable weather. While specific parking details are best confirmed locally, the trail's easy nature means you won't need extensive preparation. Just bring water and enjoy the fresh air on this short, rewarding route.

This trail stands out as a convenient option for those seeking a gentle introduction to hiking or a simple way to enjoy the outdoors in the Ringwood area. Its easy difficulty and manageable length make it a popular choice for beginners or families looking for a family friendly activity. It's a testament to how even a short trail can offer a refreshing connection with nature.

The Skyland's Manor via Ringwood-Ramapo and Crossover Loop offers a diverse hiking experience, blending rugged New Jersey forest trails with the manicured beauty of the New Jersey State Botanical Garden. You'll navigate rocky surfaces and switchbacks, passing Glasmere Ponds before reaching rewarding viewpoints like Ilgenstein Rock, which offers glimpses of the NYC skyline. The route provides a rich variety of scenery, from dense woodlands to open vistas, making it a dynamic journey for those who enjoy changing landscapes.

Planning your visit to this popular trail near Skylands Manor Ringwood State Park is straightforward, though some details are key. Parking fees may apply seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, so be prepared. While dogs are permitted on many trails, they are generally not allowed within the formal gardens of Skylands Manor. Given the complex trail network, bringing a detailed map, like map #115 of the Northern New Jersey Highlands Trails Map set, is a smart move to ensure you stay on track.

This moderate 4.5-mile (7.2 km) hiking trail, with 746 feet (227 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 7 minutes to complete. What makes it truly notable is the unique combination of natural beauty and historical attractions, allowing you to wander through the beautiful Skylands Manor gardens before or after your hike. The extensive trail network, including the Crossover (WHITE) and Ringwood-Ramapo (RED) trails, allows for customizable routes, making it a versatile option for different hiking preferences.

The Manaticut Point and Overlook Rock Trail offers a genuine wilderness feel in Norvin Green State Forest, guiding you through dense woods and past stream crossings to spectacular viewpoints. You'll navigate rugged, rocky terrain with constant ups and downs, eventually reaching Overlook Rock for panoramic views of Lake Sonoma and the surrounding mountains. Further along, Manaticut Point provides expansive vistas over the forest, with a chance to glimpse the New York City skyline on clear days.

This moderate 8.6-mile (13.8 km) hike involves 1271 feet (387 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes to complete. Be prepared for steep, rocky sections and potentially slippery conditions if it's wet. It's a great choice for hikers who appreciate a challenge and desire a more secluded experience away from the busiest trails in the region.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its combination of rugged terrain and stunning panoramic views from both Overlook Rock and Manaticut Point. Despite the popularity of Norvin Green State Forest, this specific loop is often described as being in a less-visited section, offering a true sense of seclusion. The diverse scenery, from Lake Sonoma to old iron mine remnants, adds to its unique character.