With a wide assortment of trails that vary in difficulty, the Ramapo Valley County Reservation is perfect for a Sunday hike with the family.
Holding the title of Bergen County’s largest park area, the reservation continues to be one of the prime spots in New Jersey to connect with nature. The 4,000-acre park is full of picturesque landscapes complete with waterfalls, old stone bridges and endless trees of different colors.
The first thing you’ll notice upon entering the park is the vista of lush trees towering in every direction. In the spring and summer, hikers are greeted by various shades of green. In the fall, the trees make up a beautiful array of red, yellow and orange. Regardless of the season, the reservation never fails to provide scenic views.
What makes the reservation so adored by avid hikers and occasional outdoorsmen alike are the different trails and paths. Starting off with the most simple, the purple loop around the Scarlet Oak Pond right near the park entrance makes for the perfect brisk walk. This loop will only take you about 15-20 minutes to walk around and is very kid-friendly as well as a great spot to bring the dog.
If you’re looking for something that’s a bit more rewarding while still not being too difficult, the main path up to the MacMillan Reservoir is just right. Depending on your speed, it should take about 25-30 minutes to get to the top. Start off by heading straight, and stay on that main path all the way to the top. This trail is full of shade from the tree cover and isn’t too strenuous for most people. Watch your step, however, as rocks are often hiding under the fallen leaves.
If you’d really like to challenge yourself, the park is full of rigorous trails as well. Parts of the yellow vista loop will have you ducking beneath trees and stepping on large stones as you walk right beside the waterfall. Regardless of whatever trail you choose, trail markers are abundant and will ensure that you don’t get lost.
Hiking aside, the park can also be the ideal spot for other outdoor activities. Catch-and-release fishing is permitted with an NJ State Fishing License. The reservation also has plenty of tent campsites in designated areas around the Scarlet Oak Pond. Camping is available from April-November, and a permit is required.
An excellent spot for birdwatching, the reservation is great for viewing the region’s lively ecosystem. It’s not uncommon that you’ll see a chipmunk or groundhog while on a hike. Watch out–with a sharp eye, you may even see a snake rattling in the bushes!
The Ramapo Valley County Reservation is located at 608 Ramapo Valley Rd. in Mahwah. Visit Bergen County Parks for more info.
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