New Jersey has more hiking trails than most people realize—and some of the best ones lead somewhere worth the climb. Here are 12 trails across the Garden State that end at a waterfall.
Boonton Falls – Boonton
A short and accessible hike through Grace Lord Park leads to a roughly 20-foot waterfall on the Rockaway River. Three trails pass the falls, each easily reached from the park entrance. A good option for beginners or anyone looking for a quick outdoor escape.
Hemlock Falls – West Orange
Located in Essex County’s South Mountain Reservation, Hemlock Falls is approximately 25 feet and sits along the park’s Lenape Trail. The roundtrip can be done in under two miles, or extended into a longer loop through the reservation’s other pathways.
Chikahoki Falls – Bloomingdale
One of the more challenging destinations on this list, Chikahoki Falls sits within Norvin Green State Forest on trails that also pass Wyanokie High Point—which offers views of the New York City skyline. Be prepared for rugged terrain and steep elevation changes.
Tillman Falls – Layton
The hike to Tillman Falls runs through a shaded hemlock forest in Tillman Ravine, making it worth the trip on its own. Hikers may also catch a glimpse of Buttermilk Falls near the trailhead. A good add-on for anyone already headed to Stokes State Forest.
Ramapo Falls – Mahwah
The Vista Loop trail at Ramapo Valley Reservation is a manageable 3.7-mile path that passes Ramapo Valley Falls and offers solid overlooks of the surrounding area. Those who want a shorter outing can hike directly to the falls and double back.
Apshawa Falls – West Milford
Two trails run through the Apshawa Preserve past its waterfalls. The shorter route is a 3.2-mile hike that also passes a dam on Apshawa Brook—which creates a wall of cascading water when the brook is running. A longer 5.3-mile loop circles Butler Reservoir.
Greenbrook Falls – Tenafly
The Greenbrook Sanctuary is a 165-acre woodland preserve atop the Palisades, with the falls dropping into the Hudson River below. Access requires a membership and annual fee through the Palisades Nature Association—but the trail network and scenery justify the cost for a regular hiker.
Falling Waters – Long Valley
Found in Schooley’s Mountain Park, Falling Waters can be reached in a one-mile roundtrip along a rocky trail following Electric Brook. The park’s broader trail network makes it easy to extend the hike for those who want more mileage.
Buttermilk Falls – Layton
One of the more accessible waterfall hikes in New Jersey, Buttermilk Falls can be reached via a 1.4-mile path and a wooden stairway in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Ambitious hikers can continue onto the Appalachian Trail into Stokes State Forest.
Bridal Veil Falls – North Haledon
Bridal Veil Falls sits on the grounds of William Paterson University, formed by water rushing over a ledge and into an old quarry. The trail passes behind the falling water, creating a cave-like experience for hikers moving through. It flows best after a rainstorm.
Lockatong High Falls – Stockton
Located along Lockatong Creek, these cascading falls are tucked away but reachable in about two miles from the trailhead on mostly level terrain—though it can get muddy. A quiet, off-the-beaten-path option in Hunterdon County.
Silver Spray Falls – Walpack Township
Also known as the Hidden Falls, Silver Spray Falls lives up to the name—many hikers miss them on the first attempt. The unmarked trail is located about three-quarters of a mile past Buttermilk Falls in Stokes State Forest. Finding it is half the adventure.
New Jersey native that loves reading on the couch in pajamas, exploring new places and cooking at home. Interested in writing about food, fashion and culture, all while sipping a tall glass of cold brew.
