New Jersey has more than 30 spectacular waterfalls waiting to be discovered. Spring is one of the best times to visit, and if you can venture out after a big rainstorm, you’ll get an even better treat.
The largest, and perhaps the most well-known, is the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. It is the second-largest waterfall east of the Mississippi River (after Niagara), plunging 70 feet over a rocky ledge into the trap rock and sandstone below.
Also best seen after a wet winter is Silver Spray Falls in the Delaware Water Gap, in Walpack Township, Sussex County. You can see the red rocks of the Kittatinny Ridge. Although it’s a bit out of the way and could be difficult to find along the Hidden Falls Trail, it’s considered to be one of the most photogenic falls in the state.
The Shore Trail leading to Greenbrook Falls in Tenafly requires a bit of a hike, but then you’ll see the Hudson River and the skyscrapers of New York on one side, and the cliffs of the Palisades on the other.
Boonton Falls in the Morris County village of Boonton was once the strength behind the New Jersey Iron Company, built in the early 1800s. It was once a swimming hole for local youth, but it was dangerous. and some kids died. In the 1950s, the city filled in the channel and changed the height of the rocks to make it safer.
Bridal Veil Falls in North Haledon in Passaic County is said to be dazzling after a good rain and easy to reach. In winter, the falls freeze into a stack of huge icicles. A trail leads behind the waterfall, and your children are sure to enjoy this water “cave” of falling water.
So, are you ready for a great hike? Don your water-resistant hiking boots and your sense of adventure as you search out these spectacular examples of New Jersey’s lesser-known natural resources.
Bergen County
- Bear Swamp Brook Falls, Mahwah
- Ramapo Valley Falls, Mahwah
- Greenbrook Falls, Tenafly
- Peanut Leap Cascade, Palisades
Essex County
- South Mountain Reservation Hemlock Falls, Maplewood
- Maple Falls, Millburn
Hunterdon County
- Bernadette Morales Nature Preserve, Flemington
- Tumble Falls, Frenchtown
- Lake Solitude Falls, High Bridge
- Lockatong High Falls, Stockton
Monmouth County
- Tinton Falls, Tinton Falls (the overlook by the falls is located at 741 Tinton Ave.)
STAFF PHOTO / Hacklebarney State Park
Morris County
- Boonton Falls, Boonton
- Hacklebarney State Park, Long Valley
- Speedwell Dam, Morristown
- Schooleys Falls, Long Valley, Washington Township
Passaic County
- Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, Paterson
- Hewitt (Mine Hole) Falls, Hewitt, West Milford
- Clinton Falls, Newfoundland, West Milford
- Apshawa Waterfall, West Milford
- Wynochie Falls, Bloomingdale, in Norvin Green State Forest
- Chickahoki Falls, Bloomingdale, in Norvin Green State Forest
- Otter Hole Falls, Bloomingdale, in Norvin Green State Forest
- Bridal Veil Falls, North Haledon (near William Paterson University)
Sussex County/Delaware Water Gap region
- Rutherford Falls, Montague Township
- Coopers Glen Falls, Colesville, Wantage Township
- Tillman Ravine, Walpack Township, Stokes State Forest
- Stony Brook Falls, Sandyston Township (Branchville), Stokes State Forest
- Silver Spray Falls, Walpack Township
- Buttermilk Falls, Walpack Township
Warren County/Delaware Water Gap region
- Van Campens Glen, Hardwick, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (Warren Co. section)
- Big Tocks Creek Falls, Hardwick
- Laurel Falls, Hardwick, Worthington State Forest
- Bass Lake Falls, Blairstown
Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram!
Read More:
Best Gardens and Parks to See Spring Flowers in New Jersey
Where to Take a Hike in NJ
60+ Things to Do Outdoors in NJ
Â
