Nice park for the beginner or more experienced hiker or just someone who wants to have some peace and quiet outdoors for a couple of hours. The parking lot is big and there is a bathroom, which is appreciated. I took a look at the trail map before I left to find one of a decent length, so check out options, but the trails are well-marked. Once you get past the main train next to the lake, you can find yourself pretty alone except for another occasional hiker, but you can vibe with nature, see a waterfall, and just breathe in the fresh air. Some of the trails are long, but I paced one that was only a couple of miles and still got some nice scenery and a lot of steps in. It's great this park isn't too far from the urban areas of Northern NJ and there are many trail options so you can visit again and experience something new. There's also a sign for trout fishing if that's your thing. Check it out if you want to get away for the day. read more

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It's a great place for me to run. It's flatter than most areas around here. It's also very tranquil, and beautiful to watch as you run along the path.The path around the large pond is wide, which is great for the amount of people that are coming through there and many of the areas around the paths have shade, which makes it great for running as well. There's a large parking area with lots of parking space which is a convenient. When you come into the reserve it's off of the highway. The an entrance which is one way in and then the exit on the opposite end of the lot which is one way out. The only drawback from me was that there were a number of people in the park with their dogs unleashed and the dog should be leashed . Which makes it difficult and unnerving for a runner to see a dog come out and not see the owner close by. read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Stream along a path - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

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This was my first time and what a blast! What I love about hiking is that there's so many cool and magical places that you can't get to by car. For decades I've driven up 287 and wondered what was in all the hills and mountains and today I finally got to see. I met up with my local plus size hiking group for our last hike of the year and Ramapo was a first for all of us despite being longtime New Jerseyans. We did the Macmillan trail and clocked about 3.5 miles total. We went the long trail around the reservoir and then dipped back down the waterfall trail. Very thankful we did it that way - I think all the stairs on the waterfall trail would have been treacherous given the conditions and a bit demoralizing. Getting the big hills out the way first and enjoying the lake made the waterfall that much sweeter. So many dogs and kind people on the trail. Trash was almost non-existent. Tons of rocks and logs to sit a spell - but at below freezing temps we kept it moving lol. Highlights: -ample parking (bc it was cold) -giant rocks -waterfalls -exposed slabs -gorgeous vistas -the swan!! read more

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When the weather is nice, a busy place for hiking (fishing and camping too) with varying levels of trails but not that difficult overall. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll around the lake or want an actual hike at a medium level, Ramapo Reservation has it. If you stick to the most visited areas, it is easy to navigate. Popular hikes include a walk up to the reservoir or to the waterfall. On the weekends when the weather is nice, the large parking lot can get filled but it seems like there are always people coming and going. People often come here with their dogs, and there are plenty of families too. While there's a spot with trout, there's no swimming or boating in the lake or reservoir. They have a few camp sites around the lake but they are in high traffic areas so doesn't seem ideal. There are a few port-o-potties but there's also a small house off to the side with actual bathrooms. For food options afterwards, go into Mahwah or by Ramsey which is only a few miles south on 17. read more

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Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a beautiful spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a great mix of hiking trails, scenic views, and peaceful spots to enjoy nature. The trails vary in difficulty (there really isn't anything too difficult trail wise except the two ways to the overlooks do have a lot of loose rocks) so there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a casual stroll or a more challenging hike. The lake and waterfalls are definite highlights, providing stunning photo opportunities and a serene environment. However, weekends can be a bit of a drawback. The reservation gets very crowded, often with out-of-state visitors who sometimes leave behind trash, which detracts from the natural beauty. It would be great if more people respected the area and carried out what they brought in. I love coming here and so does my dog she loves the river trails and swimming (make sure to bring longer leashes. A big pet peeve is so many people allow their dogs off leash and they have no recall whatsoever. If your dog is left off leash and you cannot control them they should not be off leash to begin with. This eliminates any and all situations that could happen. Just as well so many times as a local I've seen people not clean up after their dogs. Or worse they bag it and then leave it there. Please be mindful and respectful so everyone can enjoy this beautiful park. Despite this, the reservation remains a wonderful place to escape and connect with nature, especially on quieter weekdays. Overall, a solid 4 stars for its beauty and accessibility! read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Upper lake (her leash only came off the photo!) - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

We were very impressed by this free county park. It was a busy day on a holiday weekend but we were able to find a parking spot even at noon. There are many miles of trails through the park and most are well marked though they should post maps throughout the park since with so many trails it can be confusing. Some of the trails further in the park are very rocky and with many tripping hazards so bring hiking poles. We commented that if rainy or wet some of these trails would be treacherous given all of the exposed rocks. The one trail with a viewpoint of downtown NYC 25 miles away on a clear day is a real bonus. Overall an excellent park and a real gem for this community. read more

Finally got to check out Ramapo Valley County Reservation this weekend. It's been on my to-do list for a while. Glad I could visit. Will definitely come back again in the future! Tip: Wear legit hiking shoes or trail shoes if you intend to explore the trails! read more

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Ramapo Reservation is such a tranquil location. If you're visiting on the weekends, you BETTER arrive early, because the relatively small parking lot is filled all day. I really enjoy having the option of either remaining on the lower lake area or hiking up, about a mile, to the upper lake. No matter the choice, you'll see visitors with dogs, waterfalls, happy hikers, various trails, lots of greenery, and small wildlife. Don't hesitate to visit Ramapo Reservation. You'll enjoy the outdoors at your own pace and have a chance to envigorate your heart with exercise. read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Upper lake. - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

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People wanted to be here so badly today they were shoveling snow to get into blocked parking spaces read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Treez - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

I visited Ramapo Valley County Reservation to go on a hike with a hiking group I joined. I don't remember the exact color trail we went on, but our hike began with a lot of incline. Eventually, it flattened out and became less strenuous. Towards the end of the hike, we were able to see the waterfalls. I loved all the views there, especially all of the little streams and waterfalls. This was a pretty popular place on a Saturday morning. I would recommend getting there early. By the time we left, the parking lot was full, and the trail was becoming more full of people. I would definitely return, and I'm sure I will. read more

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Been here before for hiking though we went to see the waterfalls both times. This time we parked in a parking lot and walked by the water and saw a lot of dogs and dog owners. Normally we would see 1 or 2 during a hike. This time was easier to hike since the path was more straightforward to get to the waterfall T though plenty of snow or icy spots or muddy spots (since it rained the day before) closer to the waterfall. Great exercise with going up and down the trail. Follow the trail markers and you will be fine. Enjoy! read more

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***3 1/2 stars*** Depending on where you hike in Ramapo, your experience can and likely will vary dramatically. My preferred area is over by the Van Slyke Castle Ruins (which I believe is actually a different area/park - Ramapo Mountain State Forest), and that was actually our intention when we set out. For some bizarre reason though (and I'm not sure if this is the call of the park, the town of Ringwood, etc.) the parking situation over there is laughably bad and it's difficult to secure a spot if you're not there before 8:30am on a nice day. We ended up in the "main" area by the college, which was perfectly pleasant but had its issues. We showed up in the main parking lot off 202 probably around 9:15am. It was PACKED. My biggest pet peeve with this park is that it's insanely crowded; it's by far the best known hiking area in this section of Bergen County if you're not able or willing to cross the state line into Harriman, AND it has a lot of flat trails so literally any type of hiker regardless of skill set can handle this, depending on which paths they choose to take. That's arguably a selling point, but I prefer less people and more inclines. We needed to do at least five miles, and we got close to six. From the parking lot, we went right on the purple/pond loop, then up on the yellow/vista loop which curved down to the MacMillan Reservoir. At the Reservoir, we took another right on the pink/reservoir loop (lot of loops), circumventing the entire body of water before heading back on the blue/vista ridge connector (the only non-loop). The pond by the parking lot was probably my least favorite part - it's nice to look at, especially on a day like this with close to peak fall foliage - but it was swarmed with people. Based on what I saw, I think a majority of visitors just hang out over here and never venture into the woodsier sections, which was fine by me. The climb up to Hawk Rock isn't too challenging if you're in decent shape. We brought our Hiking Canine Chum Atlas for his hiking debut, so we took it very slowly on his behalf but I'd say you're getting an incline of maybe 500 feet, with a lot of plateaus in there to catch your breath. The view is pretty decent, but not on par with the 360-degree views in nearby Norvin Green or Harriman, which also have the benefit of higher altitude. The Reservoir area is pleasant; it's quieter than the pond, which makes sense since it requires an additional mile or so of mileage to get there, but it still had a lot of people basking on the large rocks by the water. We met a very polite lab mix named Bones, who somehow was the only canine chum we received a formal introduction to - you'd think having our own rental pooch would have meant an increase in names, but alas. The trail maintenance was excellent, as were the accompanying markings. I don't recall any issues actively searching for the path - it was always located within five seconds, which is one of the positives of having a popular hiking area. The wildlife sightings were pretty non-existent, which isn't surprising. Not my favorite, but Ramapo has its selling points. I know a lot of people (many graduates from the nearby college) who swear by this area, so it really depends on what you're specifically looking for out of a hiking experience. For me, I want better views and quieter trails. read more

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This is great place for a hike and has different trails depending on your fitness level. There's picnic benches, camping areas and few different lakes and streams for fishing. You are required to get a permit for fishing and camping. Be sure to wear your hiking boots and bring water, a snack and some bug spray. The yellow trail is paved in a lot of areas and I think is shorter and easier. There's a lot of people around and plenty of dogs as well. Most people seem to say hi on this trail. I got to pet 4 dogs and spoke to a beautiful woman. I regret not asking for her number, but didn't want to be a creep. There's a couple trails that aren't marked and plenty of places for mountain biking. The other trails are marked very well and they have a map that tells you how far away things are. The blue trail is for walking only. It crossed with the yellow trail in a few places so you can mix it up. There's a waterfall on the way up or down depending on how you go. There's a big lake which seems to be the popular spot to take a break, or if your a dog, this is where you get to socialize. I didn't get to "the top" or get see the view of the city so I guess I'll have to go back another time. I was satisfied since I probably walked about 5 miles. read more

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A beautiful reservation that grows in beauty as the season changes to Fall. It is located down the street from the Ramapo college and is a very popular place for all to gather, walk, hike, bring their dogs, fish, or just enjoy looking out at the streams/ lakes. Lots can close as it hits capacity so if you're planning a stroll here on the weekends, come early. There is also some additional parking at a nearby park but the walk is not the most convenient. Great area to have a picnic, take in the sights, and there is a waterfall path that leads to a lake with tons of puppers! read more

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Huge place with lots of hiking trails. Plenty of trails for all levels of hikers. If you're a beginner or just looking for a "walk in the park," there is a big lake when you first get in that you can walk around. My personal favorite walk is up to the reservoir and around. My dogs love it here, it's a great place to bring the dogs, as long as you don't plan on going too crazy. There is restrooms near the parking lot. No trash cans on the trails aside from the "easy" ones when you first walk in. One con is that this place is very popular. Although they have a really big lot, I've been here when the lot has been full and there is nowhere to park. You end up just circling around until they reopen the lot which can be 20-30 minutes. It can be a bummer, particularly if you drive up from far away. read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

Great place for a short walk or hike, especially if you own a dog! Just stay away from on the weekends, way too many people. If you own a larger dog, again, not on the weekends too many small yappy boutique dogs read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation offers a diversity of hiking trails suited to a range of physical difficulty. One of the outstanding characteristics of the area is its diversity of landscapes. You can experience a lake, reservoir, mountain trails, waterfall , forest, swamps, river, streams and meadows. I suggest the yellow trail which takes you to the waterfall and top of the mountain reservoir. The trail is mildly steep but only for a short duration. Other popular trails lead to Cactus Ledge (prickly pear cactus), Hawk Rock, Ridge Overlook, Castle trail and Scarlet pond. The trails are for the most part well worn and signage is visible on trees. Sometimes the trail markers are far apart and leaf coverage make it hard to see the trail. Maps are sometimes available at the kiosk or park office. You can find trail maps to download if you GOOGLE Ramapo Valley county Reservation. Avenza Maps has a print out. Rest rooms are available at the park office building and there are porta pots in the parking lot. Fall is a great time for a hike and Ramapo draws large crowds on nice weekends. The main parking areas fill-up by 12 pm. and there is no street parking. The area is patrolled even in the legal parking area and if you are not in a designated spot you will be fined. Masks and social distancing are advised but I did not see any people to enforce those guidelines. The river and streams are stocked with trout. Lots of people walking their dogs and joggers like to run around the flat surface of the lake area. Ramapo College is about a mile down the road. read more

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Great place to walk. More than one lake to choose from and either way, either lake is a nice amount of walking. Nearly a mile on the lower around I would guess. Definitely worthwhile. Few places to park on a busy day, fewer places to sit if you want to... but if you're all walk-in' it's perfect. Good time (fall). Looks real nice. read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - On the way to the lake... - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

Took my kids here to hike this morning. We did the blue trail. The place is beautiful and well maintained. Lots of different trails for all levels of hikers. My only complaint is people are not wearing masks. Luckily I have my mask. Will be back soon. read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Scarlet Oak Pond - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

I've been here three times and can say the hikes have been very relaxing. I love the waterfall during warmer months; be warned that the water is super cold though! More recently I did a challenging hike up to Cactus Ledge and Hawk Rock. It gets super confusing since there are some points where you start to lose the markers, but what's an adventure without getting lost? My friend and I bumped into a lost couple (with a dog!) and teamwork made the dream work -- we got back down after backtracking and finding our bearings and markers on the tree again. Nice views, good hikes, friendly dogs and people. I recommend this place. Can't wait to see what it looks like with the autumn foliage!! read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Cactus Ledge - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

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PROS: These hiking trails are absolutely amazing. If you're a beginner you can hike around the lake. If you're moderate you can hike up to the waterfall on top of the hill. The place is clean, you can fish in the pond, lots of parking, dogs, and it's a nice scenery place too CONS: The place is known for having coyotes and bears. It's also easy to miss the entrance from the road OVERALL: Great place for all skill leveled hikers. Just be cautious and have fun! read more

Great place to hike and relax, lots of trails to choose from. Great place for a quick walk or a longer hike.

A great place to hike alone or with others! Enter into a huge parking lot and leave your worries behind. Grab what you need and walk around a lake or two. Follow a trail and bring your camera! I have been there many times and will be sure to go back! Free and dog friendly. Free Parking too. read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

Came here for the first time this weekend to volunteer and pick up trash. Didn't even make it to the lake, sadly (I'll be back!) Checked out the trails closest to the entrance. Really beautiful spot and obviously dog friendly. The level of trash was pretty standard for a place like this but the amount of broken glass was alarming. It was very tedious to pick up but I tried to get as much as I could. It really hit its peak by the ruins. The area was surrounded by tons of broken glass, I am sure I didn't get all of it. This makes me really sad because the park is frequented by kids and dogs, not to mention wildlife. The ruins are kind of neat but they are obviously used by kids to get wasted/high. They were full of trash inside too...not so scenic.. I'd think tearing them down might be a good idea but I don't want to sound like a grumpy old lady (high school me would punch current me in the face if she heard that). Anyway, lovely place but could use some cleaning. I can only do so much on my own. Please help keep it clean!! read more

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Came out here on a Sunday afternoon. Took the Vista loop (yellow) trail. In the beginning leading up to the hiking trails there was way to many people and dogs. At one point there was a couple with there dog literally two feet behind us making us VERY uncomfortable. As for the hike itself I'd say it's mediocre, again this is only for the yellow trail. It was strenuous going up which is a plus for me! And we saw a family of deer that let us get ten feet away from them without running so that was pretty cool. But the outlooks weren't special I've seen better views. And two of them were the same view just a slightly different angle. read more

I am definitely not a hiker & on this day I decided to hike the blue trail 4.8 miles & then walk back around to get to the waterfall. I no longer have thighs read more

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I LOVE this trail! You get a little bit of everything-lake, castle, high point overlooking NYC. The ruins of the castle, the pool, and the water tower were so cool to see. If you prefer flatter grounds, a walk around the lake is a great option as well. There are two parking lots that led to the trail-one on the bottom and one on top. When I went, the state park police was writing tickets to those who didn't park at an assigned spot. Therefore I definitely recommend parking legally as they seem to be enforcing it on the weekend. The trail can be a bit confusing, so I recommend downloading the free app called All Trails. If you have the app in hand, and then follow the signs on the actual trial, you should be able to get to the ruins without a problem! read more

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One of our favorite hiking spots. Beautiful scenery, well-kept trails, and lots of payouts along the way ranging from views, to lakes, to ruins, to waterfalls. On nice days, the reservation can get crowded, so plan accordingly. We usually head up very early and the crowds are better. Highly, highly-recommended! read more

Great during the week. Weekends are crowded. Beware of off leash dogs. Dogs love swimming in the upper lake (don't know the official name). read more

It's a walkers paradise. Some hiking too. Pretty large grounds that have various difficulty level trails. Some nice water features. It's gorgeous in the Fall and a great place to watch the Spring unfolding. Dog friendly. Easy parking. 14-2017 read more

Came to this lake because it was near by..about 25 minute drive..nice scenic view going there..nice easy trail and the lake view is amazing!! read more

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I've been coming here for the last 5 years and it remains one of my favorite places to visit for a quiet morning. There is ample parking in the morning and generally starts getting packed around noon on weekdays. The weekends are a different story but do not let the packed parking lot deter you. It's very easy to explore different trails and find yourself alone. Furry friends are always welcomed too! The great thing of it all is that you can make this a quick hike or an all day event. *** If you can make it up to the view of the city you will not be disappointed. read more

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As a native New Yorker I hate to say it but, Jersey can be beautiful. OMG that kinda hurts! After spending most of her life in Fort Lee, my friend Beth relocated to Rockland with her husband. They are now the proud parents of Samantha and Chase, two of the cutest and sweetest Black Labs you could ever meet. I came here with Beth and the dogs for a hike. I don't know if you can really call it a hike since it isn't all that steep. But, whatever. This park is dog friendly and if you own a dog and live in anywhere near here and have not taken your dog here you should be arrested. Particularly if you have a dog that likes to swim. The park has two lakes connected by a river. The walk up to the upper lake is pretty easy and takes about 15-20 minutes. The park is very pretty and most of the walk is very well shaded. And you get to walk past the river and a waterfall. There are dogs everywhere which makes it all that much more fun. Samantha is a swimmer and Chase just likes to take a dip. And both were as happy as could be to be here on a perfect June day. Samantha enjoyed her time swimming out into the lake to fetch the sticks we would throw for her. The upper lake is surrounded by hills and is really pretty. However, the park must be in Newark Airport's flight path. It is in Jersey after all so something must be flawed. Yeah, I'm still a New Yorker at heart. read more

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Visited this sweet hiking place with my sister and dog since we love to do weekly hikes. We loved the forest vibe of the trails. The entire time we kept passing by couples who were also hiking and I was thinking about how it would be perfect place for a first date. Mellow environment, very relaxing, no pressure, beautiful scenery, and it's free! Why not? You're never alone on the trails because people just love Ramapo Reservation and someone is always there, especially because it's local and so close to home. Pictures and videos just aren't enough to express how beautiful and enjoyable it is! read more

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I've lived in NNJ almost all of my life and it still amazes me that the place gets a bad name. If you're one of the many smack talkers about how gross NJ is, you've clearly never visited Ramapo Reservation. You're probably one of those that thinks natural beauty is the only woman walking down 5th Ave. without a boob-job. If you're anywhere within the metro-NYC area, this is where you can visit to get back in touch with your love for all things beautiful. The 4,000 acre RR has a little bit of everything to feast your eyes on, gentle rolling streams, waterfalls, a countless variety of trees, and a number of lakes. On my most recent visit, I dragged my brother out for a little bit of outdoor time. We stuck with a very small 3.5 mile loop with a little baby-bushwhacking to check out the waterfall, the lower and upper lakes, as well as one of the many lookout points. We didn't manage to make it to Hawk Rock which was our original goal, we ended up getting sidetracked with picture taking and creature spotting, but that's alright since it gives us something to look forward to down the road. We'll save the smaller and more extensive trails for another time, but with the endless options for a "choose your own adventure" kind of afternoon, this is easily my favorite place in Bergen County to "get lost" for a little while. read more

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View from castle ruins, one of the most beautiful hiking trails I've walked. It has a slightly rocky terrain which makes it more fun to try out and is lush green with river flowing through a majority of the hiking path, the castle ruins is a great vista point from which you can get a view of the entire jersey hills and beauty. read more

Ramapo Valley County Reservation - From castle ruins - Hiking Near Me - Mahwah, New Jersey

I love Hiking... I found out about this place running into someone who also is an avid hiker in the city. Not too long of a drive, well worth it. After being away from my normal hiking spots in LA I was able to hike at Ramapo. If you've ever hiked at griffith park with all the dogs, and a climb at times this is the place. For those of you that haven't the hike is peppered with it share of water, slight uphill climb (if you go off trail) you'll see. Approximately 3m which made me want to go around a second time. Dogs, I like the fact that once you've reached the pinnacle there are dogs in the water fetching sticks, and tennis balls. I think it's great for all ages to hike Ramapo. read more

One of the most popular places to hike in this area, Ramapo has a trail for everyone. People of all shapes and sizes can explore leisurely or can find a more strenuous trail. The main trail is a light blue/yellow trail that will lead you to what I call the "dog pond," as everyone has their dogs running and swimming there. Seriously, it's a great place to browse for what kind of dog you'd want as your own. I've swam here in the summer once, even though it's against the rules, plenty of people do it. The water is cold pretty much all year round and the rocks underwater are slimy, mossy, and sharp all at the same time. Not the most ideal water to jump into. I've explored the green trail, which will lead you to a nice overlook that views Ramapo College in the distance. If you keep taking this trail to continue as a loop, you will eventually reach an intersection that leads in multiple directions. One path will lead you to a viewpoint where you can see the NYC skyline in the distance. The best time to visit Ramapo is the fall as it is absolutely beautiful with all of the foliage. read more

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Went here for the first time yesterday with family & dog, had a great time. The Good: Easy walk around the trail that goes around the first lake. The climb to the second lake is not too steep, we took our one year old in a Baby Bjorn carrier. Our young boys had a great time climbing the rocks and exploring the trails. The dog was super excited, loved the lake at the top, The Bad: People let their dogs of leash, and had NO control them, this is rude and dangerous. Need more garbage cans along the trail, lazy people picked up the droppings, but left the bags littering the side. Yuck. But I am looking forward to going again! read more

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What to expect. I am not an avid hiker. I am a fisherman and I came here to fish. With that being said , I did go in a nice pair of timberland ankle high hiking boots I had from snow days. On some trails, it was muddy and wet. I really feel bad for those who are wearing hundred dollar walking or hiking sneakers. Download the trail maps from the New Jersey website. The trails are marked by color squares on trees. There are advanced trails and less advance. The trail going up the the falls is extremely steep. It's a hike. Be prepared for this. Off other trails, on my day it was muddy and wet and you had to cross small streams. Lots of cool bridges and lookout spots. Wish I had my dslr I came to fish. I fished for two hours here, and hiked and explored for six. Hiking and exploring was fun. I also got to use my fishing rod as a hiking stick during some tricky spots. Lots of dogs. And people should keep their dogs on leashes. As a fisherman, I am fishing the shore and there is nothing worse than a dog. Or dogs running into the water and spooking everything in the area. The park is also for us(fishermen) to enjoy also. Please take that into consideration. Want to give you dogs some water, take them off the area where people fish and onto the streams. Thanks! read more

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