the staff of the Ridgewood blog
BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — As summer approaches and outdoor adventures beckon, why not step off the beaten path and explore some of Bergen County’s lesser-known but incredibly beautiful walking trails? From serene wetlands to lush forests and historic nature preserves, here are ten must-visit hidden gems perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone craving a peaceful stroll — plus a bonus trail for bikers and walkers alike.
🌿 1. Celery Farm, Allendale
📍 Location: Franklin Turnpike at Allison Court
Highlights:
Originally a celery farm, this 107-acre preserve is now a thriving wetland ecosystem. A mile-long loop trail around Lake Appert includes four elevated birdwatching stations, offering views of over 200 bird species, including herons, bald eagles, and even peregrine falcons.
🌲 2. Closter Nature Center, Closter
📍 Location: 154 Ruckman Road
Highlights:
Explore 136 acres of forest, ponds, and meadows. The trails wind through a beech forest with sightings of white-tailed deer, gray squirrels, and rich fern understories.
🌳 3. Artesian Fields County Park, Elmwood Park
📍 Location: 211 Mola Boulevard
Highlights:
A peaceful, 40-acre park perfect for nature walks. Meander along quiet wooded paths and enjoy open space and sports fields for active recreation.
🌄 4. G. Thomas Donch Nature Preserve, Franklin Lakes
📍 Location: 1 Nature Preserve Way (entrance at 1196 High Mountain Rd., North Haledon – temporarily closed)
Highlights:
With 147 acres and access to over 13 miles of trails, this preserve features the former Haledon Reservoir and scenic woodland paths connected to the High Mountain Park Preserve.
🌳 5. Borg’s Woods Nature Preserve, Hackensack
📍 Location: Allen Street & Fairmount Avenue
Highlights:
This 15-acre pocket park offers a shaded half-mile trail loop through wetlands and woodlands. Note: There is no formal parking lot.
🦢 6. Richard W. DeKorte Park, Lyndhurst
📍 Location: 1 DeKorte Park
Highlights:
Located in the NJ Meadowlands, this 400-acre park features 3.5 miles of trails, a World Trade Center Memorial Grove, and restored wetlands perfect for birdwatching.
🌳 7. Great Oak Park, Oakland
📍 Location: 23 Doty Road
Highlights:
Once home to amusement parks, this 40-acre site is being restored with trails, a dog park, a great lawn, and a performance pavilion. A unique blend of history and nature.
🌿 8. Teaneck Creek Conservancy, Teaneck
📍 Location: 20 Puffin Way
Highlights:
This ecological preserve within Overpeck County Park offers 1.3 miles of scenic trails rich in birdlife and plant species — perfect for a tranquil afternoon.
🌳 9. Pascack Brook County Park, Westwood
📍 Location: 150 Emerson Road
Highlights:
Spanning 79 acres, this park balances recreational amenities with peaceful walking paths and natural beauty.
🌼 10. James A. McFaul Environmental Center, Wyckoff
📍 Location: 150 Crescent Ave.
Highlights:
An 81-acre sanctuary with gardens, boardwalks, a waterfowl pond, and a nature trail. Ideal for families and flower lovers — don’t miss the Daffodil Hill in bloom.
🚲 BONUS TRAIL: Saddle River County Park Bike Path
Trailhead: From Ridgewood to Rochelle Park
Highlights:
A scenic multi-use path with several ponds and lush surroundings. Ideal for biking and walking, this is one of Bergen County’s most accessible and versatile trails.
🌐 Plan Your Outdoor Adventures
For more walking and biking trails, park maps, and seasonal events, visit the official Bergen County website.
Ready to explore Bergen County’s quiet corners? Whether you’re a weekend walker or a passionate nature lover, these lesser-known trails offer a refreshing break from the everyday routine — right in your backyard.
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Woods behind Emerson HS…