Whether you’re looking to amp up your exercise routine or just have cabin fever and want to get out into the great outdoors and take in the warm weather, we’ve got three words for you: Take a hike! Will state and county parks now open, you can take in the benefits of hiking. Not only can hiking burn around 440 calories (or more) per hour, it’s also a fun way to spend a day with Mother Nature and take in all the gorgeous sights our area has to offer.
Here are three of the best hikes in Bergen County NJ to get you started. Happy trails!
The Shore Trail — Palisades (Alpine, NJ)
This trail ranges from easy to medium difficulty, and is a perfect pick for all ages. Plus, it's filled with plenty of excitement along the way: gorgeous views of NYC and the Hudson River, a small set of hidden stairs (not the Giant Stairs, which are still currently closed for safety) for kids to climb, and a beautiful waterfall to cool down. There are a few different path options to walk along, some steeper than others depending on your desired level of difficulty. Go early if you can, as parking is limited and it tends to get crowded.
Ramapo Reservation (Mahwah, NJ)
With an impressive 11 hiking trails ranging from beginner to advanced, you’re sure to find a hike that’s perfect for you. Loops range from 1.2 miles with 200 feet elevation to 10-mile loops with 1,100 feet elevation, and all include some pretty cool sights, including the beautiful Ramapo Lake, an old-timey castle, and sweeping views of New York City skyline.
We suggest starting with one of the shorter hikes, and then challenging yourself to one of the longer hikes the next time around.
This one is also perfect for bringing your pooch along. Choose the light blue/yellow path (a 3-mile hike), which will lead you to a doggie haven, where there are tons of dogs on and off leash.
Hook Mountain (Nyack, NY)
The Southern half of this trail is a paved and scenic flat path almost two miles long for walkers, bikers, and hikers (and is also wheelchair accessible) along the peaceful Hudson River. With trails ending up at Rockland Lake (approx. 6 miles round-trip) or Haverstraw (approx. 11 miles round-trip), your walk can be friendly, romantic, or introspective. No matter which you choose, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge and Westchester.
Looking for more? Hike up the northern part of the trail, which is hilly, narrow, and rocky. There are likely to be more than a few adventurous mountain bikers on the way.
