Hiking Trails and Waterfalls to Explore

I’m a nature lover, and I’ve made a bucket list of trails I want to hike and waterfalls I want to photograph. Before heading out for a hike, it’s important to wear proper footwear, as some paths can be rocky or slippery. Always prioritize safety. Please bring water and a small snack with you, and remember to leave no trace of your visit. Keep the trails clean! Before you go, check online for opening and closing times and trail lengths. Some waterfalls, like those at Bushkill Falls, may require an entrance fee. Also, be aware that many hiking trails don’t have restrooms, so it’s a good idea to find nearby places with restrooms. Enjoying nature and escaping the city’s distractions is a great way to clear your mind and relax.

 

During my visits to various places, I’ve found the scenery and sounds to be incredibly peaceful. I hike year-round, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and remember to bring bug spray. All the trails are kid- and pet-friendly, making them perfect for beginner hikers. When leaving the woods, it’s essential to check for bugs or ticks on your body and clothes. Be sure to remove any outer layers and shower thoroughly. To make sure there are no lingering bugs on your clothing, you can also put them in a hot dryer. Have fun exploring these beautiful sites!

Roxbury Township

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PATERSON GREAT FALLS PARK 

Paterson Great Falls Park is located at 72 McBride Ave, Paterson, NJ 07522. Park tours are available at the welcome center (65 McBride Avenue Extension) to provide an in-depth history lesson of the Great Falls. Paterson Falls is 75 feet high on the Passaic River. Paterson Falls was formed approximately 13,000 years ago, at the end of the last ice age. You may view the falls from Haines Overlook Park. There is a footbridge over the falls that you can walk across to view, or you can walk down the stairs for a closer look. 

 

HACKLEBARNEY STATE PARK

Hacklebarney State Park is located at 119 Hacklebarney Rd., Long Valley, NJ 07853. There is ample parking and restrooms available at the site. There is a rocky climb down the waterfall that can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Please wear proper footwear when visiting this park. We stayed on a very hot day and climbed into the water to cool off. This is a beautiful place to visit.

BUSHKILL FALLS

Bushkill Falls

The falls feature a stunning 100-foot waterfall and offer a variety of family activities, including hiking trails, fishing, and boating. Visiting the falls is a fantastic experience. There are wooden stairs along the trails, and the area is pet-friendly. Several trails are available for exploration.

GREEN TRAIL- View the Main Falls from the GREEN trail. A 15-minute walk, with no climbing involved, but there are steps.

YELLOW TRAIL – View the Main Falls, Lower Gorge Falls, Laurel Glen, and Upper Canyon—45 minutes to walk.

BLUE TRAIL- View Pennell Falls from the BLUE trail. This will take 1 hour and 15 minutes to walk. 

RED TRAIL- View Bridal Veil Falls from the RED trail. This trail is suitable for the avid hiker, measuring 2 miles and taking over 2 hours to complete.

 

 

RAHWAY FAIRY TRAIL

South Mountain Reservation offers numerous hiking trails to explore. South Mountain Fairy Trail is located at the Locust Grove entrance at 197 Glen Ave. Millburn, NJ 07041. Along this hike, you will find the Rahway Fairy Trail with tiny fairy houses hidden within the trees and bushes. The Fairy Trail is 2.25 miles long. You can find other trails, including Hemlocks Falls and Maple Falls. 

EAGLE ROCK RESERVATION

Eagle Rock Reservation is a 400-acre park located at Eagle Rock Ave. and Prospect Ave. in West Orange, NJ 07052. Many trails are color-coded to follow. Eagle Rock Reservation is also the home to the 9/11 Memorial. Eagle Rock offers scenic views of New York City and fireworks on the 4th of July. 

 

Before you plan your next getaway, take a moment to explore within.

My book, Let Yourself Bloom: Affirmations to Nourish Your Spirit, along with its accompanying guided journal and coffee table edition, was created to inspire courage, curiosity, and self-belief, no matter where life takes you. The journey starts with one choice: to live fully and fearlessly. 🌍

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