Skylands Manor – Ilgenstein Rock/Erskine Lookout
Views of the NYC skyline (Ilgenstein Rock) and of Wanaque Reservoir (Erskine Lookout) are along this hike in Ringwood State Park.
North NJ Hikes
Hike guides for the rugged northern portion of New Jersey. The majority of Jersey’s well known hikes are located across this region – Mt. Tammany, Stairway to Heaven, Wyanokie High Point, and the Giant Stairs. Listed by last updated.
Also check out Best Hikes in NJ for a curated collection or Hiking in NJ for the master list of every hike guide on the site.
Ramapo Mountain State Forest
This long route takes in Ramapo Lake, Van Slyke Castle ruins, plus views of the surrounding area and of NYC.
Wanaque Ridge Trail – Ramapo Mountain State Forest
Hike to Ramapo Lake, Van Slyke castle ruins, and enjoy views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains from Wanaque ridge.
Grand Castle Loop
Hike to Van Slyke Castle while maximizing the viewpoints in Ramapo Mountain State Forest.
Wawayanda – Iron Mountain and Hoeferlin Loop
A long, pleasant wander through Wawayanda State Park on many of the park’s trails, with several stops along Wawayanda Lake.
Allamuchy Mountain S.P. North – Waterloo Trail
Long hike through the northern section of Allamuchy Mountain S.P. North, on the Waterloo Trail.
Stephens State Park
A long route on mostly woods roads to a fire tower, or take it easy with short trails, picnic tables and playgrounds.
Beaver Brook Trail to Lost Lake
Hiking the Beaver Brook trail to Lost Lake, where there is a beaver lodge and dam.
Mahlon Dickerson – Headley Overlook
Hike to Headley Overlook for a view of Lake Hopatcong, pass the highest point in Morris County (1395′), and return via the Ogden Mine Railroad rail bed.
Echo Lake – Highlands Trail
Mostly level hiking on moderate trail with a few minor changes in elevation, plus a lot easy woods road walking.
Hanks Pond – Bearfort Fire Tower
Hike to Hanks Pond and Bearfort Fire Tower in the Pequannock Watershed.
Four Birds Trail (North)
Nice views of Charlotteburg Reservoir early on, then hike through a secluded forest to arrive at Timber Brook Lake.
Tenafly Nature Center and Lost Brook Preserve
Small park with multiple easy trails, a nature center, and a storybook loop.