Solid little hiking area. I've been here for fishing, BBQing, relaxing, hiking and walking dogs. The main areas are really simple, it's a walk that makes you feel better since it's disguised as a hike. No shame in that though.
Went here yesterday and it was great!! Going during this time of year (autumn) is a must! Lots of families, couples, and individuals enjoying the trials. If you don't like crowds, I strongly recommend you go on a weekday though. Or going on the less traveled trials is a good idea as some trials are a lot more empty than others. I love how the trails overlap so you can make your own route depending on what you want to see. There are also short hikes with nice views or longer ones so there's a good amount of variety.
Dog friendly hike though, especially the lake at the top always has multiple dogs running in and out of the lake. So if you're remotely scared or angry at dogs, don't go here.
BY FAR, IMO, one of the most beautiful places on earth. Every type of terrain you can imagine, from single-track, to fire roads, grassy fields, lakes, streams, waterfall, flat and mountainous hiking. The views are spectacular. Dog friendly, most of the people are nice (go figure, eh ?) lol
This is a treasure for locals in Bergen County. These trails are great for hikers of many levels. The atmosphere is good and the reservation is generally kept very clean by its patrons, which range in all ages. You see parents with their young children, and even run into some septuagenarian hikers. The trails are well-marked, and there are a few good lookouts in which you can see from the Ramapo Valley all the way to the New York City skyline. The people you run into on your hike usually greet you with friendly hellos. There are many dogs that come along for the hikes. Although there is a requirement that dogs remain leashed, not everyone complies with this. If you or someone in your party, particularly a child, has a fear of dogs, then this could make for some uncomfortable moments. However, in my many hikes there, I cannot recall a single instance of an unleashed dog doing anything more than wandering in the direction of someone who otherwise would have preferred them not to. The main attractions are First Lake and Second Lake, and the names make sense based on the order in which you encounter them. First Lake greets you as soon as you're on the main trail from the parking lot area. If your fitness level is for flat ground only, you surely can walk around First Lake. If you want more, then there is a rapid elevation on the main path, toward Second Lake, that should increase your heart rate a bit before it reduces to a gradual incline. The main trail toward Second Lake is quite often over pavement, making it an easier push for strollers after the initial incline, and allowing more for sure-foot walking than dirt-path hiking. Once at Second Lake, if there are mild temperatures, then expect to see dogs in the water. The canines are just a small part of the wonderful year-round scenery in that spot. From Second Lake, there are further trails that loop back to the parking lot area. A couple of trails can link to Ringwood trails and satisfy hikers looking for longer excursions. If that suits you, then plan ahead, with transportation available at the end opposite from whence you start, since these hikes are roughly nine miles long, and the parks close around sundown. Bring your own water, and do not litter!
Very popular area with hiking trails of various difficulty levels. Beautiful scenery with lakes and streams for fishing. Lots of dog walkers. Parking lot can fill up on weekends. Despite popularity, it's serene and relaxing.
Photos do not do it justice. Bicycles are not allowed, which is a good thing, and parking can be difficult, but otherwise, a fantastic place to spend the day.
Ramapo Valley County Reservation is a US Park based in Mahwah, New Jersey. Ramapo Valley County Reservation is located at 608 Ramapo Valley Rd, Mahwah, NJ 07430, USA.
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