The best running trails around Hackensack

There are over 50 dedicated jogging routes around Hackensack, offering a wide range of experiences. These include 5 easy routes, 39 moderate routes, and 8 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels.

Jogging routes in Hackensack feature diverse terrain. You'll find paved urban pathways, such as sections of the Hackensack Riverwalk, as well as natural trails within expansive county parks like Overpeck County Park and Saddle River County Park. Many paths are well-maintained, offering a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines.

Yes, Hackensack offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or a relaxed jog. A great option is the Flat Rock Brook Red Loop Trail, an easy 2.1-mile path through an Oak-Hickory forest. Many park trails also offer accessible, less strenuous sections.

For longer runs, Saddle River County Park is an excellent choice, offering a wide trail network that can extend up to 15 to 16 miles without hitting streets. The Oradell Reservoir loop from Oradell is another moderate option at 6.3 miles, providing scenic views and sections along a gravel road.

Yes, many of the popular running routes in the Hackensack area are circular. For instance, the Oradell Reservoir loop from Oradell and the Demarest Duck Pond loop from Tenafly are both well-loved circular paths, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

Hackensack's running routes offer beautiful scenery. You can enjoy picturesque views of the Hackensack River along the Hackensack River Greenway and Hackensack River County Park. Saddle River County Park features a scenic waterfall and a historic tower. The Oradell Reservoir loop provides views of crystal-clear water. For a unique experience, the Bergen County Zoo Trail offers a 1.5-mile run through natural surroundings.

Many parks and greenways in the Hackensack area are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Overpeck County Park and Saddle River County Park are popular choices for runners with dogs, offering extensive trail networks. Always check specific park regulations before you go.

For families, the easier, well-maintained paths are ideal. The Flat Rock Brook Red Loop Trail is an easy 2.1-mile option. Many sections of the Hackensack Riverwalk and trails within Overpeck County Park also offer flat, paved surfaces suitable for families, often with amenities like restrooms and playgrounds nearby.

The running routes in Hackensack are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners often praise the variety of landscapes, from serene riverfront paths to expansive green spaces, and the well-maintained trails that cater to different preferences and fitness levels.

Many of the larger parks like Overpeck County Park and Saddle River County Park offer ample parking facilities. For public transport, specific bus routes serve areas near these parks and the Hackensack River Greenway. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most convenient access to your chosen starting point.

While many Hackensack trails are relatively flat, for those seeking more challenging runs with elevation, Garret Mountain Reservation, a short drive from Hackensack, provides hills and breathtaking views of the metropolitan area. Some routes around the Oradell Reservoir also feature gentle inclines.

Beyond the trails themselves, you can find several interesting attractions. The Oradell Reservoir is a prominent natural feature. For historical and cultural points of interest, nearby attractions include The Cloisters and The Little Red Lighthouse, though these require a short trip from the immediate Hackensack area.