7 Easy Walks To Enjoy Today
Stretch out and soak up the sun during these relaxed strolls throughout Bergen County.
If you’re like us, you probably have an itch to get outside. Spring has sprung, and it’s the perfect time to get reacquainted with the sun and fresh air. The easiest way to do that here in Bergen County is to step through the front door and take a walk.
From boosting physical health to promoting mental health, walking has plenty of benefits. And the best part is you don’t have to go on a strenuous hike to enjoy the activity—that means no steep inclines to climb, no tree roots to hurdle, no rock piles or water crossings to navigate.
In Bergen County, there are dozens of walking paths that are suitable for any age and skill level. Popular destinations like Saddle River County Park, Van Saun Park and the lower level at the Ramapo Valley County Reservation are great options, but let’s face it, the trails there tend to fill up fast. Below are other less-crowded options to consider on National Walking Day, April 2, or any day of the year:
Cooper’s Pond. Bergenfield’s popular neighborhood park features a relatively short, tree-lined walking trail. Be sure to snap plenty of photos of the blooming trees and the red barn house reflecting off the pond’s surface.
DeKorte Park. Get up close and personal with marshland wildlife at this Lyndhurst treasure, which has nearly four miles of trails. The Marsh Discovery Trail is the most popular—it’s an easy half-mile boardwalk loop that takes visitors over and through the marsh, providing amazing views of shorebirds, marine life and the New York City skyline. Additional dirt-lined trails also are available and can be easily traversed while wearing everyday sneakers.
Fort Lee Historic Park. Seasoned hikers will venture into the woods at Palisades Interstate Park, but others can enjoy the vistas at this cliff-top park. There are several miles of walking trails here (check out the park map), but be sure to check out the Instagram-worthy views of the northeastern overlook.
Hackensack River Park. Get past the hustle and bustle of Hackensack and Teaneck and you’ll find yourself along the banks of the Hackensack River. On the Hackensack side, you can access the paved trail starting at Johnson Park and follow it to the Fairleigh Dickinson University campus. Continue on the trail toward the Shops at Riverside, or cross the river and pick up the Hackensack River Greenway in Teaneck.
Overpeck County Park. This park covers five towns (Englewood, Leonia, Ridgefield, Ridgefield Park and Teaneck) and more than 800 acres, so there’s plenty of space to explore on foot. Our favorite spot is the pathway along Overpeck Creek, where walkers, joggers and cyclists have plenty of space to travel, from the Hackensack Riverkeeper’s boat rental station to the Overpeck amphitheater to the great lawn—and everywhere in between.
Pascack Brook County Park. Though only 79 acres, this Westwood park packs a lot to see within its grounds. Choose the short walking path that surrounds a picturesque, fish-filled pond that attracts long-legged waterbirds, or take a longer, cherry-tree lined trail that meanders along a calm creek and into the woods.
Samuel Nelkin Park. This county park is tucked into a Wallington hillside and features a short trail that takes walkers and runners past playgrounds, a dog park, playing courts and a pond.
What’s your favorite walking trail in Bergen County? Share photos from your walk with us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.
