Escape New York: your guide to hiking in New Jersey

Why so many New Yorkers head to New Jersey for hiking?

Nature feels wild but is close. You can stand on a rocky overlook (like at Pyramid Mountain or Norvin Green State Forest) and almost forget the city is right there.

Easy parking, fewer crowds. Many trailheads have free lots. In fact, a long, steeper hike can still feel quiet if you start early. (Bonus: most trails have clean restrooms and picnic spots.)

Trails for all levels. New Jersey has everything from stroller-friendly boardwalk loops to half-day mountain hikes. Even a beginner hiking trails near NYC like South Mountain Reservation offer scenic sights (waterfalls!) without steep climbs.

Mountains, lakes and forests. Northern NJ’s Kittatinny Ridge and Ramapo Mountains offer elevation gain and vistas. There are sweeping views of lakes like Ramapo Lake and Round Valley Reservoir. Put it all together with fresh air, and even a short trip feels like a real getaway.

Planning your route: how to get there by car from NYC

From Midtown Manhattan to popular NJ trails is often under an hour. South Mountain Reservation (West Orange) is ~35 minutes​. Ramapo Valley (Mahwah) is about 50 minutes. From Queens or Brooklyn add roughly 15–20 minutes extra. (In any case, you’ll save time by avoiding train/bus transfers.)

You can easily rent a car in NYC through Drivo – just be sure to choose a rental with a return in New York City. With Drivo, you have the freedom to explore multiple parks or go on an out-and-back adventure without worrying about shuttle schedules. You can pick up your rental at convenient locations like JFK, Newark, or in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Whether you're hiking solo or with a group, an SUV or minivan is a great option to comfortably fit your gear and crew.

Easy trails to start with: perfect for a first hike or lazy sunday

If you or your family are just getting into hiking, these parks have gentle, scenic loops. Trails often stay low-elevation and close to water, so you’ll have a pretty, peaceful walk without too much effort. They’re great for kids, dogs, or anyone easing back into the outdoors.

South Mountain Reservation (West Orange): a 2,112-acre park with easy loops. Check out Hemlock Falls Trail – a 2-mile out-and-back to a 25-foot waterfall. Bonus: you can extend the hike around the reservoir.

Ramapo Valley County Reservation (Mahwah): a peaceful 3-mile loop around Scarlet Oak Pond and MacMillan Reservoir. Gently rolling hills and picnic spots make it a relaxing hike.

Cheesequake State Park (Matawan): a unique mix of swamps, forests, and a beach on Raritan Bay. The 2-mile loop is perfect for families and easy to follow.

These parks are great for a short Sunday outing or beginner hikes near NYC.

Want a challenge? Try these moderate mountain hikes

For a half-day adventure with bigger rewards, head to these spots. Expect steeper climbs, rocky sections or river crossings – but also high views and wilderness. Plan to pack enough water, layer up (mountain summits can be windy) and maybe snacks or lunch. A sturdy pair of boots or trail shoes will help on uneven terrain.

Pyramid Mountain County Park (Montville): famous for Tripod Rock, this 3-mile loop trail has a 650 ft elevation gain and panoramic valley views. Parking is at the Visitor Center, and nearby Boonton offers great post-hike dining.

Norvin Green State Forest – Wyanokie High Point (Ringwood): a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail with stunning views of NYC to the east and Wanaque Reservoir to the west. Stop for lunch at Wyanokie Pond and check out Ringwood Borough on the way back.

Jenny Jump State Forest (Hope, NJ): a 5.5-mile trail with 1,000 ft elevation gain, offering scenic views of Great Meadows and Kittatinny peaks. The park has a campground, picnic areas, and water refill stations.

Sourland Mountain Preserve (Hopewell Township): a 7.5-mile loop or shorter trails through forests and boulder fields, known for wildflowers and birdwatching. Stop by historic Princeton or Hopewell Borough afterward.