3 Best Hiking Trails in Paterson, NJ

“Garret Mountain Reservation is a 568-acre fantastic outdoor space with trails, picnic pavilions, open fields, beautiful views, and much more. The trail is located 2.7 miles from Paterson. This is a loop trail, and the total length is 2.9 miles, with an elevation gain of 394 feet. The trail also offers extensive views of northern New Jersey and the New York City skyline from its elevation of more than 500 feet above sea level. Garret Mountain Reservation has a variety of outdoor activities and facilities for visitors. The main recreational area contains grass fields, several miles of walking and running routes, basketball courts, picnic spots, Barbour's Pond, which is regularly stocked with fish for anglers, and an Equestrian Center that offers horseback riding lessons. The trail also welcomes dogs in designated areas.”

“High Mountain Park Preserve is a 1,200-acre natural refuge that features rolling and sometimes steep terrain winding through woodlands and wetlands. The trail is located 9 miles from Paterson. The nature preserve is the largest tract of forested land east of the Highlands, which features 11.5 miles of trails in the Watchung Mountains, rewarding visitors with vigorous hikes, panoramic views, and peaceful waterfalls. The total length of the trail is 4.9 miles, with an elevation gain of 682 feet. This is a loop-type trail and is generally considered an easy trail route. High Mountain Park Preserve is a habitat for rare and threatened plants and wildlife, including mountain mint and northern long-eared bats, as well as common local species like flying squirrels, wild turkeys, chipmunks, and white-tailed deer. The trail also features specified areas for pets.”

“Mills Reservation approximately covers 157.15 acres (0.6360 km²) of protected wooded area that ensures a breathtaking view. The trail is located 7.2 miles from Paterson. This natural haven is maintained by the Essex County Park Commission. The trail has many walking and strolling trails, including the Lenape Trail and four important smaller trails. One of the four major trails leads to a cliff that overlooks the New York City skyline. The Mills Loop Trail, marked with white blazes, is a complete loop around the park that extends for one and a half miles and is the main walking trail. Mills Reservation also features a section of the 36-mile Lenape Trail, which connects 18 parks and 11 communities in Essex County. The trail includes kid-friendly hikes and spacious parking for additional convenience.”